Yeovil Half Marathon - Bigger and Better
Released On 1st Mar 2018
25th March will see athletes take to the streets of the town to tackle the 8th version of the A-Plan Insurance Yeovil Half Marathon.
The race has come a long way since the first version in 2011 which saw 632 runners finish the race at Huish Park.
The race this year looks like selling out at 1800 runners. With 100 additional runners taking to the streets the town centre is sure to become the home to a fantastic festival of running. As many as 35% of the runners are from Yeovil, so if you are planning on watching the race, there is a very good chance you will see someone you know.
The race in 2017 was won by Chris Southern from Salisbury in a time of 1:13:57. Chris has entered the race this year and is sure to be near the front defending his title. The winner of the Ladies Race last year Hannah Claydon of Swindon Harriers also returns to defend her title. Last year Hannah won in a time of 1:23:51.
The course record was set in 2016 for the Men's field and stands at 1:10:43 with Hannah's winning time from last year standing as the Ladies course record.
There is a huge contingent taking part from Yeovil Town RRC. Over 90 are expected to be taking the start in the distinctive 'green and white', with many hoping to challenge for an overall or age category win in their home race.
This year also sees a shorter distance option for those wishing to enjoy the experience without running the full distance of 13.1 miles. Over 100 including many children are expected to take to the Yeovil Fun Run, following in the footsteps of the Half Marathon, finishing in the Quedam Shopping Centre.
For the entertainment of runners and spectators some local 'live entertainment' has been booked to perform around the race route.
Paul Lewis, Guitarist on Wheels will be in Yeovil Country Park at Goldenstones
HMS Heron Royal Navy Volunteer Band will be performing in the Borough, Yeovil Town Centre
Blackdown Hill Steel Band will be performing at Airfield Tavern roundabout
The race has attracted a fantastic team of over 100 volunteers, including a contingent from St Andrews Cubs, and Yeovil Army Cadets. The race could not take place without them.
New also for this year on Saturday 24th March there will be a ' Music Marathon' happening around the town centre. 11:00 till 15:00 and 15:00 till 20:00 there will be live music in many local bars and cafés including Cow and Apple, Orchard Food, Costa Coffee, Chicago Rock and also the Middle Street Bandstand.
Full details on the race route and road closures will appear next week, with a full update including race results the week following the race.
For full race details, including how to enter the events, please visit www.yeovilhalf.com
