Sunday 15 August was time to shine for the Solihull Half Marathon & 10K that saw more than 1200 runners enjoying a scenic course in this affluent market town. The course was hillier than many expected...

A well organised event from organisers RunThrough it had the added bonus of being held on closed roads, giving people the opportunity for a PB although the elevation made it more difficult to do so. There were a few lumpy sections to get over that put their legs (and training!) to the test but plenty of marshal support and a lively atmosphere to keep them going to the finish.

It started in Mell Square that was also the location for the finish. The Half Marathon set off at 9am followed by the 10K at 9.30am as everyone continued on a well marked route to the sound of claps and cheers. Conditions were good on the day – always a big plus for a mass participation event – and so was the running on this undulating route.  

Jason Bennett won the Half Marathon in 1:12:20 with Ludovic Renou second in 1:12:41. Jim Hickinbottom of Shrewsbury AC was third in 1:13:04.

Emma Styles of Nuneaton Harriers was the winning lady in 1:17:19. Alice Daniel was second in 1:22:15 and Cat Cummings of City of Norwich AC third in 1:24:39.

In the 10K, Owen Alekna was first across the line in 36:25 followed by Stephen Schubeler of Steel City Striders RC in 36:43. Mark Lawlor was third in 36:54.

Becki Timmings was the first female in 39:24. Sarah Hill was second in 43:04 and Cassie Webb of Redditch STARS third in 46:15. 

A full set of results can be viewed at the RunABC Midlands Race Listings page.

Finishers received a bespoke medal, RunThrough technical t-shirt and a goody bag. 

Many vow to return in 2022.  

Image courtesy of Neil Smith.