Excitement is building ahead of the inaugural Market Harborough Half Marathon, with the latest event guide confirming key details for race day this May.

Taking place on Sunday 17 May 2026, the event will start and finish at the Market Harborough Showground, with runners heading out on a 13.1 mile route through the surrounding Leicestershire countryside on fully closed roads.

As a brand new addition to the Midlands running calendar, the race has already generated strong interest, with more than 1000 runners expected to take part in its first year.

The course itself promises a balanced challenge, combining scenic rural roads with an undulating profile that includes a mix of climbs and faster sections. With four water stations positioned along the route and a three hour cut off, the event is designed to be accessible while still offering a rewarding test.

Race day will centre around a lively event village at the Showground, featuring live music, food and drink stalls, and a strong community feel that reflects the ambitions of the organisers to create a welcoming and inclusive race experience.

All finishers will receive a specially commissioned medal, with prizes for the leading runners, while free race photos add to the overall experience for participants.

With its combination of a scenic course, closed roads and a well organised race environment, the Market Harborough Half Marathon is shaping up to be one of the standout new events of the spring.

Whether you are looking to take on a new challenge or be part of the first edition of a growing event, this is one to keep firmly on your radar this May. Entries are stilll open here now.

Image courtesy of Race Harborough