The ABP Newport Wales Marathon will offer runners the chance to go faster than ever before on one of the UK’s flattest courses.
The route has been finalised for the inaugural 26.2 race, which will see more than 5,000 participants compete on 29 April, 2018.
Double Olympic marathon runner Steve Brace has devised the course for Wales’ new national marathon. The race will start and finish on Newport’s vibrant riverfront and take-in some of the city’s iconic landmarks as well as the picturesque coastland of South Wales.
The single loop route will take runners past the University of South Wales and the bustling Friars Walk shopping centre before heading over the Newport Bridge, through the east of the city and into its rural areas, then on towards Magor. Supporters will have the perfect opportunity to catch a glimpse of their loved ones and elite runners in the medieval town of Redwick, before runners head back towards the revamped city centre.
But before they prepare for a sprint finish along the River Usk, runners will get the chance to take in the coastal wildlife on show at the Gwent Levels and Newport Wetlands.
Matthew Kennerley, Director, ABP South Wales said: “We are delighted that the ABP Newport Wales Marathon Route has been designed in a way that will take runners through a wide area of Newport. The route will provide a great view of the City and its offerings. We are looking forward to seeing the streets of Newport filled with cheering supporters.”
The race is on to claim the final 2,000 spaces remaining for Wales’ new national marathon. Entries have soared past the 3,000 mark as runners from across the UK and beyond secure their place on the start line.
Matt Newman, Run 4 Wales Chief Executive, said: “The newly revealed ABP Newport Wales Marathon route will make the UK’s newest mass-participation marathon one of the fastest races of its kind.
“Race Director Steve Brace, the man behind the popular Cardiff University/Cardiff Half Marathon route, has devised a course that has it all. From the revamped Newport Business District to the picturesque Newport Wetlands, runners will be able to challenge themselves over a unique single loop course.
“Friends and family will have a perfect opportunity to cheer on loved ones along the 26.2 mile route, and we cannot wait to bring a world-class marathon to the streets of Newport on Sunday 29 April.”
Councillor Debbie Wilcox, Leader of Newport City Council, said: “It is very exciting to see the ABP Newport Wales Marathon taking in so many elements of our diverse city. We’re confident that we will offer runners a great experience on the day.
“We will also be working closely with the residents and organisations along the route to ensure they are fully informed and that any disruption with be minimised as far as possible.
“This is a great opportunity for the city and I urge both the public and businesses to get involved.”
The ABP Newport Wales Marathon will be a member of AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and be measured by a AUKCM Grade 1/IAAF/AIMS Grade B Course Measurer.
Runners can still sign up by heading over to newportwalesmarathon.co.uk/register. Only a handful of early bird entries, priced at £45 are left available.
Details on road closures will be communicated shortly, in the meantime any residents or businesses with queries about the event should contact newportwales@run4wales.org or call 02921 660 790.
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