The organisers of this year's Essar Chester Half Marathon predict that the total money raised by runners at this year’s event is set to go more than the extra mile.
The 42nd running of the 13.1-mile event is on Sunday, May 19, with thousands starting at 9am from Chester Racecourse.
It will see the largest field of runners since 2019, with 6,000 main runners and 1,000 fun runners.
Callum Shields, of organisers Active Leisure Events, said: “Our running heroes raised a whopping £450,000 in 2023 and all the indicators are telling us that this will be topped big style by the 2024 event.
“I never cease to be amazed at the commitment and enthusiasm of our charity runners. They raise funds for many different causes for all kinds of reasons and their achievements are to be congratulated. This is especially important as many of the charities are part of their local community.”
This year's Chester Half Marathon is on Sunday, May 19. Photo: Craig Colvillle.
Whilst the official race charity for all three of ALE’s events in 2024 is the West Cheshire Foodbank, runners can use the event to raise money for any cause that they want to support.
'Massive crowds'
Road closures will be in effect in the city centre throughout Sunday morning, including on New Crane Street, Nicholas Street, Grosvenor Street, Canal Street, Garden Lane, Deva Link and Parkgate Road towards Saughall and Mollington. Residents and motorists are advised to check on full details at https://www.activeleisureevents.co.uk/half-marathon/road-closures
“The early part of the route offers fantastic opportunities for spectators with the City Rows providing ideal vantage points,” added Callum. “Equally, the finishing straight down Northgate Street has always attracted massive crowds as does the memorable finish at Chester Town Hall square and we hope people will again come out in force to enjoy the spectacle.
“Whilst the elite runners finish the 13.1 miles of the race in just over an hour, the majority of the runners will take up to two hours and more, providing plenty of opportunity for spectating. The whole area has a carnival atmosphere!”
Deepak Maheshwari, CEO of EET Fuels, Essar sponsor, said: “For a century, Stanlow has kept Britain moving.
"We are immensely proud of our local heritage and connection with our community, so we’re delighted to be supporting Chester Half Marathon again this year and look forward to congratulating all the runners and fundraisers, including over 40 of our colleagues, as they cross the finish line.”
- For more information about the Essar Chester 2024 Half Marathon and the MBNA Chester Marathon/Metric Marathon being held on Sunday, October 6, visit www.activeleisureevents.co.uk
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