Big turnout once again for Retford Half Marathon

The Newham and Essex Beagles crossed the line in a time of 01:09:00 (gun time), while the ladies race was won by Julie Warner in a time of 01:24:08 (gun time).

More than 1,200 runners and supporters converged on Retford on Sunday for popular race.

First Retford runner home was Ben Harris, who put in an impressive performance to finish seventh in a time of 01:14:40 (gun time), with Ben’s wife Anne Harris finishing as first Retford lady in 01:42:19 (gun time).

More than 1,200 runners and supporters from around the country gathered for the popular race.

Race director, David Corbett, from Retford Athletic and Running Club, said: “We were delighted with the turnout once again. The event has grown phenomenally over the last six years and is now firmly established as major event in the race calendar.

“The half marathon sold out for the fifth year running, and despite a 1,200 capacity, we sold out of all entries in January.”

“Everything ran smoothly and our team of over 100 volunteers, including junior leaders from Retford schools, volunteers from Bluebell Wood and friends of Retford AC and other local clubs did an amazing job.

“Feedback from runners and supporters has once again been extremely positive, particularly about the course, support on the route, and the organisation.

“We would like to thank all runners and supporters, along with local businesses and residents for their support, particularly those that were affected by the additional traffic management arrangements which were introduced last year to improve safety for runners and other road users.

“The event takes a massive amount of planning and work behind the scenes from the planning team at Retford AC and our event partners, in conjunction with our Safety Advisory Group which includes Bassetlaw District Council, Nottinghamshire Police, East Midlands Ambulance Service and Nottinghamshire County Council.

“It all makes it worth it to see the smiles on the faces of runners and their supporters, all the positive feedback, and the level of funding raised for local causes.”

The Retford Athletic and Running Club event was based at Retford Oaks Academy once again.

In great conditions almost 1,000 runners completed the Half Marathon, while over 100 children and adults took part in the family fun run, which was held in the grounds of Retford Oaks.

The large turnout was once again good news for the event’s main race charities, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and YoungMinds.