Cardiff Half Marathon

Cardiff Half Marathon: Record-Breaking Fun and Fancy Dress! 🎉

Over 29,000 runners took the streets of Cardiff this weekend! From elite athletes to fancy-dress enthusiasts, it was a race to remember! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

The Cardiff Half Marathon 2024 was an exhilarating showcase of speed, spirit, and community, attracting a staggering record of nearly 30,000 runners! Kicking off the weekend, junior races took place on Saturday, bursting with youthful energy and enthusiasm. But the real excitement took place on Sunday, as runners of all shapes and sizes, from elite athletes aiming for glory to colourful fancy-dress participants, gathered outside the historic Cardiff Castle. The 13.1-mile route not only tested the runners' stamina but also provided a scenic view of the city’s iconic landmarks, making it an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the vibrant Pride Cymru hosted their Rainbow Roundabout at mile 10, turning up the volume on what is already a jubilant occasion. This was the second year running for the colourful aspect of the event, which showed that the spirit of inclusivity and community remains strong within the Cardiff Half Marathon. High-fives from enthusiastic onlookers lined the streets, and the buzz of excitement was palpable as each runner approached this critical point in the race.

As the dust settled, the relentless intensity of the event shone through with the elite races, where Kenyan athletes Patrick Mosin and Miriam Chebet went home with impressive accolades. In a stunning display of strength and speed, Mosin clinched victory for the men’s race with an unofficial time of just one hour and one second, while Chebet triumphed for the women, leading a Kenyan clean-sweep of the podium across both categories. It was a remarkable testimony to the unwavering dominance of Kenyan runners in long-distance races, proving once again their phenomenal prowess.

In addition to the fierce competition, there were plenty of humourous sights along the route with runners showing up in various fancy dress costumes. Unicorns, superheroes, and even some spaghetti bolognese made an appearance, showcasing the fun side of the event while still seeking to conquer the marathon. With every mile filled with entertainment and heart, the Cardiff Half Marathon proved to be more than just a race—it was a celebration of life, spirit, and the joy of running.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the Cardiff Half Marathon is not just a local phenomenon? It’s one of the largest half marathons in the UK, bringing together diverse participants from around the globe! Also, if you think fancy dress is just for fun, think again! Some runners claim that their humorous outfits actually boost their running morale, making for a light-hearted and energetic atmosphere throughout the event!