Reading lays claim to title of 'fastest half'

Over 10,000 runners crossed the finish line of the Reading Half Marathon this year, but the race itself is celebrating a win of its own, as a race results review of half marathons from August 2016 - April 2017 has proved that the Reading Half Marathon was the fastest half marathon in the UK within this time period. Here are some other great stats about Reading Half: 

 

1. Blink and you’ll miss it! 203 runners crossing the finish line with sub-80-minute race times!

 

2. Speedy Gonzalez: 29 of this year’s runners finished the race in a phenomenal sub-70-minute time. 

 

3. Battle of the ages. The majority of runners at this year’s Reading Half Marathon were aged 35-44 (35%), with the 45-49 age group running close behind (27%).

 

4. Feel the #fitspo: 66% of this year’s runners said that as a result of participating in this race, they now felt more inspired to stay active more frequently than before they entered.  

 

5. Warm welcome! 55% of runners this year were returners to the event, which in turn also meant that 45% had chosen to run the Reading Half Marathon as their first experience of this distance.

 

6. Prestigious race: 79% had run a half marathon distance before. As an event, Reading attracts returners, elites and club runners who are keen to top up their personal bests. 

 

7. Seal of approval: 75% of this year’s runners said they would be very likely to recommend the race to others considering a half marathon. 

 

8. Local loyalty: you’d be hard pressed to find a half marathon with as much local support as received from the good people and businesses of Reading. 81% of this year’s runners live in Reading. 

 

9. Chasing race bling: 99% of those questioned said they like the Reading Half Marathon medal. 

 

10. An army of 10,000: this year, the Reading Half Marathon welcomed over 10,000 runners across its start, and Madejski Stadium finish line.

 

 

Moving into its 35th year in 2018, the event is predicted to welcome over 14,000 runners to the half marathon. The course is ideal for seasoned athletes and beginners alike. The 3km Green Park Challenge also provides the perfect option to run together with children and family. 

 

Registration is now open. Go to www.readinghalfmarathon.com for more information and to secure your place. 

 

Half Marathon

UKA affiliated club runners £36.00 / All other runners £38.00

Green Park Challenge £10

Charity Champion £58

Corporate Challenge £185

 

All races include a fantastic medal and a finisher's bag at the finish.