Thousands of runners took part in the biggest ever ABP Newport Marathon Festival on Sunday.
More than 10,500 people signed up to take part across the marathon, half marathon, 10K and junior races which took place on Sunday 19th April.
The sun was shining, the rain held off and it was near-perfect running conditions as spectators came out in their droves to cheer on their loved ones as they set off on a loop of the city centre before heading out on the rest of the courses.
All the routes were devised by Run 4 Wales Race Director and double Olympic marathoner, Steve Brace, and are renowned for their flat and fast nature – so much so, that a new course record was set in the women’s half marathon by Natasha Wilson.
Wilson said: “I probably set out a bit fast, but I felt really comfortable. I always love coming back here as I feel so at home and the crowds are always amazing. Miles 6-10 felt a little bit lonely, but it was a hard training run, and I was very familiar with the roads and it was just great to be back home.”
Women’s marathon winner, Samantha Antell, also set herself a new PB with a time of 2:43:15 and half marathon wheelchair winner, Owain Terrell, also set a new PB and broke the 60-minute mark, claiming the title in 59:08.
Antell added: “I love this course, it’s the third time I’ve done it, and I’m really pleased with how today went. I had three goals – to get a PB, to get the Bideford all-time club record and to win – so I’m really pleased to have achieved these.”
The men’s marathon was won by Jacob Tasker (02:21:07) and the men’s half marathon winner was Adam Bowden (01:09:57).
The winners of the 10K race were Dafydd Jones (29:24) and Donna Morris (35:43).
However, the race winners weren’t the only ones claiming victory out on the courses, as members of this year’s 100 Club were also triumphant, with many of them tackling a running event for the first time.
The 100 Club is a Run 4 Wales initiative whereby 100 free spaces are given to encourage people to use the event to improve their health and wellbeing. This year’s group were made up of first time runners, those returning to the sport after a prolonged time as well as from groups such as Torfaen Council’s If You Go I Go scheme, Newport Live, Mwslima Runners, Cardiff VI Runners and local run clubs.
Associated British Ports (ABP) were this year’s title sponsor with Mind in Gwent as lead charity. Alongside their team of runners their choir were out on the course providing a boost to participants as they passed through the international sports village.
Other partners of the event included High5, Newport City Council, Enthuse, Brecon Carreg, Friars Walk, Office for National Statistics, Mon Motors, Cancer Research Wales, Monex Group, Coopah and Newport Live.
Run 4 Wales Chief Executive, Matt Newman, said: “Well done to all our runners who took part in this year’s ABP Newport Marathon Festival – our biggest yet.
“From first time runners to those looking to improve their time or secure a PB on our flat and fast course, with a variety of distances, we’re proud that there is something for all ages and abilities at the ABP Newport Marathon Festival.
“I also wanted to say a huge thank you to all of our partners, sponsors and volunteers who without, the event just would not be possible. We’re very much looking forward to coming back to the city next year and doing it all over again.”
Ashley Curnow, Divisional Port Manager, Wales and Southwest at ABP added: “Following another fantastic day this year, we’re pleased to be continuing with our support of this increasingly popular mass-participation event. We are proud to be part of Newport and its community, and the role the port plays as the UK’s leading steel-handling port. Supporting an event that brings people into the city and celebrates Newport as a place to live, work and invest is an important part of our commitment to the city.”
Those who have been inspired by this year’s event can sign up to take part in the 2027 ABP Newport Marathon Festival taking place on Sunday 18th April. Entries are now open for the marathon, half, 10K and junior races with a limited number of savings and bundle entries available.