Close call for Wokingham Half Marathon but it went without a hitch

WORDS BY JACKY HAYLER PHOTOS BY PAUL KING

Thousands of runners took to the streets for the 2024 Wokingham Half Marathon although just days before it was touch and go whether it would go ahead.

Heavy rainfall and flooding looked like putting the race in jeopardy – but thanks to the organisers, a large part between miles three and seven were changed to avoid the worst of it.

Race organiser Chris Sumner said: “We were extremely pleased with the David Cliff Wokingham Half Marathon, given that on Thursday it looked like it might not go ahead due flooding, but we managed to re-route and importantly re-measure the route. Half marathons must be certified accurate by an independent course measurer in order to have the times run on the route accepted for British records or international qualification.

“As we did have a British record set for the over-50s female category by Kate Rennie (1.18.07) it would have been a shame if it was on an unmeasured course as it would not have been accepted as a record.

“We also had the fastest time run by a UK athlete in this country so far this year in 1.04.48 by Alexander Teuten from Southampton AC, proving once again how quick the David Cliff Wokingham Half Marathon is.

“A record 3,500 runners entered the race, and the event was sold out well in advance so we are now looking at what adjustments and improvements we can make to the event to allow more runners to enter.”

Thousands of pounds were raised for charity during the day and while many were running for charities close to their hearts, many were simply challenging themselves. Some were in fancy dress with Speedy Banana (aka Tom Cripps) aiming for the fastest male fruit to complete a half marathon as well as raising money for Cancer Research UK while Cat in the Hat was also on the course.

For Adrian Stacey from Lower Earley it was his first half marathon having started a 12-week running plan. He was aiming for a 2 hours 15 minutes finish but was happy just to complete the race in preparation for the Reading Half Marathon in April.

Team Medics were also out and about around the course in case of emergencies. They were hoping things would be quiet for them but were expecting minor injuries such as sprains, dehydration and exhaustion.

Race control manager Richard Wybrow said it had been a hectic but very good day but for some runners arriving late there was disappointment. “Some runners arrived after the cutoff point for letting them go. It really is a safety issue and not something we enjoy enforcing.”

The youngsters set off on their mini mile at 10.15am with a warm-up run

"Dby Patrick from Nuffield Health first. Wokingham Borough Council deputy Mayor Adrian Mather set them on their way and was pleased to see so many potential half marathon runners of the future.

“It was a frosty morning, but it was nice to see it develop into good running conditions. Each year the event grows and fits into the Wokingham calendar ear Nick and team, I just wanted to thank you all for the amazing coverage you gave to the David Cliff Wokingham Half Marathon. These events are so important, and you really did go all out to make sure you gave it some amazing publicity, can’t thank you enough”. - Deputy Mayor really nicely. Wokingham Borough Council and Wokingham Town Council really welcome this event which is certainly putting the town on the map.

“I would just like to add my thanks to all the organisers, the marshals and the scouts who have been supporting the marshals throughout the course.”

Next year’s event will be on Sunday 23rd February. Early Bird entry is only £30/£32 until 10th March 2024.