Record-Breaking 43rd Robin Hood Half Marathon and Mini Marathon a Huge Success
The 43rd Robin Hood Half Marathon and Mini Marathon took place on Sunday, 29th September, with more than 11,500 entries taking on the challenge of the event. Concerns over possible disruptions were put to rest when strike action on the Nottingham tram network was called off on Saturday, and the city welcomed runners under clear skies as they collected their race bibs at Victoria Embankment. Excitement ran high among the running community—and for good reason. The 2024 event has broken records across the board, with the highest number of participants to date and a surge in first-time runners. More than 40% of entries came from outside the NG postcode area, bringing a positive boost to Nottingham's economy.
This year also saw an increased presence of charity partners and runners, and early projections suggest record fundraising totals will be significantly increased. Claire Wainwright from Rainbows Hospice for Babies, Children, and Young People expressed her gratitude, saying, "We are incredibly thankful to the 80 runners who supported Rainbows. Their amazing efforts mean we can continue our vital work not just in Nottinghamshire but across the East Midlands."
Runners in the half marathon followed the well-received 2023 route, which was developed in partnership between Goldline Events Ltd and Nottingham City Council. The course took participants past iconic landmarks in the city, with the scenic start and finish set along the River Trent.
At 9:30 a.m., Richard Whitehead MBE, 200m T42 Paralympic Champion and World Record Holder, welcomed runners to the start line. Whitehead, a long-time supporter of the event and the Footprints Charity, also took part in the race. Vicky McClure was present representing Our Dementia Choir and took charge of the starting horn giving the runners a special send off on their way to an epic PB smashing race.
In the men’s half marathon, David Bishop secured victory with a time of 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 18 seconds, closely followed by fellow competitor George Phillips, who finished 62 seconds behind, and third place was taken by Alistair Henry Watson in a time of 1 hour, 9 minutes and 34 seconds.
Olivia Bates reclaimed the title for the second year running in the women’s category shaving nearly 5 minutes from her winning 2023 time and coming home in 1 hour, 19 minutes, and 23 seconds. Second place was taken by Amy Lowe a minute behind and third place for a second-year running was Molly Uren in a time which would have secured her the win in 2023, more the four and a half minutes faster at 1 hour 23 minutes and 27 seconds. Congratulations to those top athletes and everyone who took part in the event. Winners received their awards from Vicky McClure and Robin Hood, Maid Marian and the Sherif of Nottingham t the great enjoyment of the supporters.
Judith Manson, Race Director at Goldline Events, reflected on the event’s success: “Once again, Nottingham has shown it knows how to host a spectacular event. We’ve worked hard to elevate entry numbers to a level that reflects the passion runners have for this iconic race, and it’s gratifying to see the results this year. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-timer, the Robin Hood Half Marathon and Mini Marathon truly offer something for everyone. This is our great city, and this is our truly great race!”
Manson added, “A huge thank you goes out to all our event partners and sponsors, volunteers, staff and most importantly, runners, without whom this event would not be possible. We’re already looking ahead to 2025, and we’re confident the event will continue to grow from strength to strength.”
The date for the 2025 Robin Hood Half & Mini Marathon was announced as Sunday 28th September 2025
*Please note: race times reflect gun time.
For full event information visit www.robinhoodhalfmarathon.co.uk
