A beautiful day for racing in a beautiful town: these words fittingly describe Sunday’s (11 July) Leamington Spa Half Marathon which returned to deliver a safe and stylish experience. There were more than a few PB’s thanks to the traffic-free course.

This award-winning half marathon from Raceways Events CIC was ideal for the first timer at the distance as well as the seasoned competitor. A visually appealing course complete with a few hills, enthusiastic marshals and plenty of local support along with fine weather put everyone in a good mood – just what was needed after a difficult 16 months!

A staggered start kept the runners socially distanced and then spread out on the course where a system of rolling road closures enabled the flow of movement. They took in the wide boulevards, architecture and parks of this regency spa town, passing the elephant statues in Jephson Gardens and, with the heat in mind, stayed hydrated via the drinks stations positioned along the route.    

Elisha De Mello of Rugby and Northampton AC was first across the line in 1:08:32 – over a minute ahead of Michael Kallenberg of Cardiff AAC who finished second in 1:09:45. Ian Allen was third in 1:11:36.

Sophie Birtles of Shropshire Shufflers won the women’s race in 1:18:12 with a gap of more than 6 minutes between her and Alice Thackray of Charnwood AC who was second in 1:24:19. Tamara Freeman of Bromsgrove & Redditch AC finished third in 1:27:14. 

The full set of results can be viewed at the RunABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

Finishers received a distinctive elephant medal and tech t-shirt. All profits from the race go to Raceways Events CIC’s charity Marathon Kids UK.  

Image courtesy of BMF Warwick & Leamington.