Southend’s first city Half Marathon attracts over 1400 sign-ups

May 4, 2022

Southend’s premier running event - which raises thousands of pounds for local hospice care – will see over a thousand runners pound the pavements this summer.

Registration is still open for the Southend Half Marathon, sponsored by Utilize Plc, taking place on Sunday 12th June. The course is fast, flat and traffic free making it ideal for first time half marathon runners as well as a favourite for seasoned runners looking to achieve a personal best. Once runners have completed their 13.1 miles, they will receive a special commemorative medal.

Every person who registers will be supporting Havens Hospices which includes Fair Havens and Little Havens. The local hospice charity cares for children, young people and adults living with complex or incurable conditions.

This free, specialist care is there for families as long as it’s needed, within the home and at the charity’s two hospices, but can only continue thanks to people’s kind donations and sponsorship, such as those raised through events like the Southend Half Marathon.

The charity is looking forward to welcoming back its flagship event in its usual format since Southend was awarded City status last month. Jane Hopkins, organiser of the event at Havens Hospices said: “We’re excited to be welcoming back runners to the Southend Half Marathon so we can continue to raise vital funds towards our essential hospice care after a challenging two years of fundraising.

“We’ve had runners sign up from across the country and the world - we want this event to be a celebration of Southend not only becoming a city, but also the community coming together as one after difficult and uncertain times.

“Whether you’re running for fun, to remember a loved one or to achieve a personal best, every mile will be making such a difference to all the families we care for, ‘Making every day count’. If you’re a keen runner and would love to take part, sign up today and be part of something memorable.”

Registration for the Southend Half Marathon costs £28 for affiliated club runners, non-affiliated runners £30 and wheelchair athletes £30. To sign up visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/southendhalf