Gosport Half Marathon
Seaside views and Samba sounds... it's the Gosport Half Marathon! A good PB Course and a great community event that normally attracts 1,600 - 2000 entrants.
| Date | Sunday 17th November, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Distance | Half Marathon + other events: Fun Run |
| Location | Bay House School |
| Town/City | Gosport |
| Area | Hampshire |
| Start postcode | PO12 2QP |
| Start time | 10:00am |
| Organiser | Michael Barker |
| Website | Visit website |
| Run For Charity |  Start Fundraising On GoFundMe |
Runners setting out on the scenic two-lap course that includes a fabulous stretch along the Lee-on-the-Solent promenade with far-reaching coastal views to the Isle of Wight. Runners will be hydrated at five water stations; encouraged by some of the most supportive marshals around and have their spirits lifted by the Samba Drum Band at the four- and 10.5-mile point.
To underline the PB potential of this flat and fast course the top eight men went under 73 minutes last year with Ben Tyler (Medway and Maidstone AC, 1.10.46) setting the pace. Six women finished inside ninety minutes and the winner was Lesley Locks (Aldershot Farnham & District, 1.22.20).
Two races take place during the main event to keep the youngsters entertained. There is a 1.07km Fun Run for children aged 11 and under, followed by a 2.14km for those aged 12 - 16, with a £2.00 entry fee.
Gosport Road Runners, with a club policy preventing members from competing in their home race, provide a team of more than 100 marshals and combined with the local community youth groups there are more than 200 people supporting the runners to cover the many tasks on the day. The club consider this gesture a way of saying 'thank you' to all the other clubs that have hosted races for them throughout the year.
The Gosport Half Marathon is again a venue for the Hampshire Road Race League but unfortunately is not suitable for wheelchair athletes. Race entries tend to be evenly split between Club and non-Club runners, so there is a good mix of abilities that ensures the race feels busy but rarely crowded.
£11,500 was raised for local charities last year and Gosport Road Runners would like to thank Alexandra Sports, Solent Sports Injury Clinic, Haslar Radio, Bodiworks massage, The Diving Museum, The Hovercraft Museum and the eight youth groups for their support in making this event possible.
Full details and answers to many FAQs are available at the Gosport Half Marathon website.
“As good as it gets… Some of the best and friendliest marshals I have ever encountered. Superb organisation without being officious. A goody bag that is environmentally friendly – and filled with things I actually wanted after a long run. Great medal.”
