It’s all new for Newport

ABP Newport Marathon Festival | NEWPORT, WALES

The ABP Newport Marathon, new Half Marathon and 10K is just over a month away with some exciting new changes for 2024.

As well as the 13.1- mile distance added to the weekend for the first time, the event has had a complete refresh, including a new look and name – the ABP Newport Marathon Festival.

Inspired by the city’s iconic footbridge, the new identity aims to reflect the event’s expansion into an exciting festival of running.

With a refreshed website, the new identity will be showcased across event weekend on Sunday 28 April and will also feature on official finishers items, including race t-shirts and medals.

The new look festival promises to be a huge day of running with marathon, half marathon, 10K, mile and junior races on offer, ensuring there is something available for every level of ability and ambition.

Matt Newman, Chief Executive at event organisers Run 4 Wales, said: “We’re so excited to reveal our new look ABP Newport Marathon Festival, which has only been made possible with the support of Associated British Ports, Newport City Council and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

“The weekend is set to be even bigger and better than before, and we can’t wait to welcome participants and spectators to not only enjoy the new races but all the supporting activities and on-course entertainment too.”

Alongside the new half marathon race, the existing marathon and 10K distances have also had a course refresh to improve atmosphere and event experience.

However, those looking to secure a PB needn’t worry as Run 4 Wales have ensured the flat and fast course, which the Newport events are famed for, have been retained.

Devised by Run 4 Wales Race Director and double Olympic marathon runner, Steve Brace, all three races will start and finish on Newport’s vibrant riverfront and include a new city centre loop as well as a loop of the Newport International Sports Village.

The marathon course will no longer stretch as far east into Monmouthshire, instead heading into Redwick before joining the half marathon course around the Newport Wetlands and Goldcliff area.

All three routes finish by runners heading back to the city centre, enjoying views of the iconic Transporter Bridge.

Steve said: “We wanted to make sure the races provide the best possible experience for both runners and spectators, and we hope that the tweaks we’ve made will create an even better atmosphere as part of the new ABP Newport Marathon Festival.”

If it all sounds good to you, it’s not too late to get involved – but those yet to sign up will need to act fast, as registration closes soon.

Alternatively, those who wish to get involved without running, can join the Extra Milers volunteer team, who play an important part in ensuring that race day is a huge success.