There is a groundswell of enthusiasm and support for the Severn Bridge 10K on Sunday 30 August. Although the usual option of a half marathon is not available this year, due to the complex COVID-secure logistics required, the popular 10K goes ahead with a unique solo time trial format.

Entries will be capped at 1,250 and runners will start individually every 10 seconds over a three hour period – so you can see why a half marathon was not an option this year! The M48 Motorway will be closed from 7:30 am to 12:00 noon to enable the event to proceed safely.

Runners from Wales or England must arrive from the west at Junction 2 of the M48, which is the Event Centre and hosts the ample free car parking and safe toilet facilities. 

The course is run almost entirely on the original Severn Bridge itself, from Wales towards Aust Services in England, before returning to Wales and the spectacular finish on a large, open grass area, just below the motorway roundabout. 

The Severn Bridge was opened by Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 1966; took three and a half years to construct and cost £8 million. It has a longest single span of 990 metres; maximum height of 136 metres and the road surface is suspended at 47 metres above the water surface.    

As you would expect, there are a number of alterations and this will be far removed from a 'normal' road race. Entry fees, including free parking, have been reduced to £26/£28 but do not include a race T-shirt. Runners will start at pre-allocated 10-second intervals over a three-hour window. These arrangements ensure social distancing can be maintained throughout.

The good news is that all the essential race staples remain, including bottled water at halfway and the finish; a self-service medal collection point; instant results via chip timing and a real race feel as you catch slower runners or are overtaken by faster runners with ample space to pass – you will be running on a closed motorway after all!

Last year's winners were Jamie Parry (Parc Bryn Bach Running Club, 34:49) and Rachel Davies (Swansea Harriers, 39:40) as nearly 100 beat 50 minutes and 1,078 finished in 1:55:58.  

Full details, including three-page COVID-aware statement and entry link at Severn Bridge 10K website.

Image courtesy Severn Bridge 10K