Thousands of runners took part in a record-breaking 8th edition of the JCP Swansea Half Marathon on Sunday (12 June) as Wales’ biggest summer half marathon returned to its rightful June date, eight months after a COVID-19 postponed version was held in October 2021.

As predicted in runABC South's preview both men's and women's course records were smashed on a beautiful sunny morning as 2,870 finished the pancake-flat coastal course in 4:15:10 at the city’s newest cultural venue, Swansea Arena, where the masses are pictured assembled for the start.  

Hayley Davies, CEO of founding sponsors JCP Solicitors, set the runners on their way and said: "It is always a fantastic event that brings an electric atmosphere and an abundance of people to our city centre, helping contribute to the local economy and enjoying everything Swansea has to offer, from the city to the sea.” 

Managing Director of event organisers Front Runner Events, David Martin-Jewell, added: “We are thrilled with the turnout at this year’s JCP Swansea Half Marathon. It’s always exciting to see our runners line up at the start line, especially as we return with near-normal race experience for all. The event is more than just a race. It’s about bringing people together to share their challenges and help them achieve their goals. It’s about teamwork, raising funds for charity, offering volunteer opportunities for people in the city, and supporting our running community. We look forward to an even bigger and better Swansea Half in 2023!” 

The best elite field assembled to date did not disappoint as Omar Ahmed (Birchfield Harriers) smashed the male course record by 42 seconds in 1:04:01. The Ethiopian winner was pushed to such a fast time by Leeds City clubmates Phil Sesemann (1:04:07) and Ollie Lockley (1:04:31). 

The women’s race was equally competitive, with the record beaten by 62 seconds by Natasha Cockram (Micky Morris Racing Team, 1:12:48) ahead of Naomi Mitchell (Reading AC, 1:15:11) and Dani Nimmock (City of Norwich AC, 1:16:36).  

Seven companies took on the Celf Corporate Challenge, with the loyal sponsors JCP Solicitors' team emerging victorious.

Entries are already being taken for the 2023 event, which will be held on 11th June next year. To sign up at an exclusive early bird price go to the Swansea Half Marathon website here

For full results and previous event reports, visit runABC South race listing here

Image courtesy Emma Martin-Jewell, Front Runner Events