Cardiff Half Marathon

The Cardiff Half Marathon (Welsh: Hanner Marathon Caerdydd) (previously known as the Cardiff Marathon) takes place in October. The date for the 2012 event has been confirmed as Sunday 14 October. It is an annual half marathon race held in the Welsh capital city of Cardiff. The event was established in 2003 and is organised by the children’s charity Barnardo’s. Also in partnership with the race is Cardiff Council, the Vale of Glamorgan Council, the Welsh Government, Welsh Athletics and sponsored by LLoyds TSB, the South Wales Echo and Princes Gate Spring Water.

The course has always been predominantly flat, making it ideal for first time runners and professionals alike (elite runners can gain free entry to the race). The 2009 event incorporated the prestigious Welsh Half Marathon Championships; entitling the top three Welsh male and female finishers to represent Wales in an international half marathon. The scenery of the route is also incredible and varied, as the course takes runners past historical landmarks such as Cardiff Castle, the modern waterfront of Cardiff Bay and the greenery of Bute Park.

In 2009, Wales’ longest road race attracted 11,000 competitors who raised money for over 175 charities. 2010's sell-out race saw a record number of runners taking part, with over 15,000 entering the race.

The event has grown considerably over the years and now attracts both UK and international runners – it is now known as one of the top events in the Autumn running calendar. Previous participants in Cardiff races include Paralympics champion Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson and inspirational adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes.