With the big day fast approaching, time is running out for all you would-be Santas to don the famous red suit and run. One of the biggest and best Santa Runs takes place this Sunday (18th December) with a choice of 10K or 5K distances on the same card as the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon and Festive Half Marathon.

Believe and Achieve Events are behind this promotion and last year there were nearly 1,200 competitors in four events that ranged from 10K up to a 50K ultramarathon. This year's programme sees the introduction of the 5K Santa Run – in aid of Rowans Hospice – and the 50K ultra has been dropped.

The 2021 winners of the Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon were Stuart Nicholas (Bournemouth AC, 2:39:46) and Bernadette Versey (Lordshill Road Runners, 3:03:31) and the Festive Half Marathon champions were Jon Fairs (Haslemere Border, 1:14:58) and Cari Brown (unattached, 1:28:17).

The spectacular course for both of the longer distance events runs from Southsea Castle, Clarence Parade, Southsea, on a new and improved route. Marathon runners go around Langstone Harbour to Havant and onto the Hayling Island Billy Leisure Trail before turning for home. The half marathon turn is at Farlington Marshes, just north of Langstone Harbour.  

The marathon will start at 8:30am; the half marathon gets underway at 9:15am and the colourful sight of hundreds of Santas will dash along Clarence Promenade from 10:00am.

The Portsmouth Coastal Waterside Marathon was started in 2009 by Rob Piggott, who founded Believe and Achieve Events in 2000. Races organised by Believe and Achieve Events always contribute to local charities including Rowans Hospice, the RNLI, and All Call Signs. 

For the latest race information visit Believe and Achieve Events website

For past results click on runABC South race listing here

Image courtesy Believe and Achieve Events on Facebook