Over 10,000 runners took part in the sold-out 44th Green Park Reading Half Marathon promoted by Goldline Events on Sunday, 22nd March 2026, with an estimated 15,000 cheering runners on the route. 

The race was held in mild conditions, with plenty of cloud cover keeping the athletes cool throughout the 13.1-mile course, which starts in the Green Park business and residential area and finishes at the magnificent 24,000-capacity Madejski Stadium, home of Reading FC.

What began at Reading University in 1983 with 5,000 runners, won by local university student Mark Curzon in 1:07:45, has grown into one of the nation’s most celebrated races, attracting thousands each year to the fast and scenic course through the heart of Reading.

“This event is a highlight of Reading’s sporting calendar,” said Judith Manson, Race Director. “It’s fantastic to see the community come together, whether running, volunteering, or cheering to create such an inspiring and uplifting day.”

Runners could look forward to a unique boost at mile 8, where a high-energy “party zone” brought extra excitement to race day. Featuring music, entertainment, and enthusiastic crowd support, this section is designed to lift spirits and keep participants motivated as they enter the latter stages of the race.

There was a hometown champion this year, as Rob Corney, of Reading Road Runners, took the plaudits of the huge crowd in the stadium in 1:06:47. Patrick Roddy (Thames Hare & Hounds, 1:07:16) and Ville Lehtoniemi (1:08:41) from Finland completed the men's podium.

Former winner, Kate Estlea-Morris (Aldershot, Farnham & District, 1:14:55), added another Reading victory ahead of Katie Brown (Otley AC, 1:17:21) and W50 Alice Braham (Ealing Eagles RC, 1:18:04).

The supporting Mini Marathon, actually run over a 3K route, was won by Lorenzo Moss (8:56) and Aimee Porter (9:42).

Results and previous event reports are at the runABC South race listing 

Images courtesy of Reading Half Marathon on Facebook