Come rain or shine, Nottingham Celebrates Miles and Smiles
AT 39TH EDITION OF IKANO BANK ROBIN HOOD MARATHON EVENTS WEEKEND
Near on 10,000 runners took to the City this weekend for the 2019 Ikano Bank Robin Hood Marathon Events. Laced up and raring to go on Victoria Embankment, the sun broke through the morning’s downpours and Richard Whitehead MBE set the runners on their way for the 39th edition of the event. Team mates, Anthony Woodward and Samantha Harrison, of Notts AC, were crowned winners of the Men’s and Women’s Half Marathon.
With the doors now closed on the 2019 race weekend, race organiser, Goldline Events, looks ahead to next year, celebrating the 40th anniversary of what has become one of the UK’s most beloved half marathons. The first ever Robin Hood runners took to the course in 1981 and since, the event has become a firm favourite in the race calendar for thousands. Watch this space for early bird entry offers and exciting announcements for the 26th and 27th September 2020 event – opening soon!
2019 male half marathon winner in a time of 1:12:19*, Anthony Woodward said: “I really had to dig deep at the end, Daniel and I had a strong sprint finish; that was tough. But an incredible event, with amazing support along the route; it’s the same every year. It sure was wet and windy but this race never disappoints. I was 3rd back in 2015 and 2018 so it was great to take the win today. See you next year Nottingham!”
Daniel Bagley followed in 2nd place with a race time of 1:12:21* and Oliver Harradence took third in 1:13:47*.
Topping the women’s half marathon race in 1:14:39* was 24 year old, Samantha Harrison who said: “Those conditions were super tough today, the rain, the wind, but we did get some sunshine! I put in a good run and I’m chuffed with my time, I took 10 minutes off last year’s performance! I can’t wait to see how training goes through the year in prep for next year’s start line.”
In 2nd place with 1:24:43* was 19 year old, Joni Wildman of Holme Pierrepont RC followed closely by Nuneaton Harriers AC athlete, Polly Keen in 1:25:09*.
Cancer Research UK fundraiser, Gary Keller (43yo, East Leake) said: “To see the sun come out as we started the race was a relief! Today was my first time at Nottingham, but my second half marathon, so I wanted to enjoy my own pace and do my Mum and Uncle proud. Having lost them both to Cancer, I hold CRUK very close to my heart and want to do as much as I can to support the vital work they do. I’ve raised £300 today, a brilliant event and it really is incredible to see so many charity runners pushing their limits for their loved ones.”
Thousands of pounds were raised across the weekend for the charity partners, including NSPCC, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, Framework, Stroke Association and Nottingham Hospitals Charity, to name a few.
Judith Manson, Race Director, commented: “Once again, an incredible event for all involved. From the runners lacing up their trainers for their very first race, to the established athletes pushing their PBs and fitness levels to new highs. The downpours did not dampen out spirits and the sun shone on all our runners as they took to the City for the 13.1 miles.
“Our Saturday milers to Sunday’s corporate challengers, our Race Angels to pacing team, our charity fundraisers to spectators lining the streets and our brilliant volunteer crew, we send you the biggest thankyous.
“We close 2019 with excitement for next year, the race’s 40th anniversary! We can’t wait to reveal the plans and festivities in store. Watch this space to secure your spot in 2020’s must-do running festival.”
