Mo’s the man as big race returns
LEICESTER’S Half-Marathon returned yesterday after it was cancelled for the past two years – but runners had to battle through a deluge before they crossed the finish line.
The athletes set off from a soggy starting point in Victoria Park at 9.15am and faced torrential downpours as they were waiting to start and as they made their way round the course.
But even though a number of the roads were left looking more like rivers, it failed to dampen the spirits of those taking part in the event, which was called off in 2019 due to flooding – yes, even worse weather than yesterday! – and was then postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic last year.
Participants were raising money for the Loros hospice and various other charities as part of what is one of the biggest annual fund-raising events in the city.
In previous years, the race has seen thousands of people take to the city streets and this year, organisers revealed a new route.
Following the announcement that the event was back on this year, race director Andrew Ward said: “We can’t wait to see everyone lining the streets again for this year’s marathon. It’s such a great atmosphere on the day and ultimately raises thousands of pounds for Loros hospice and other local charities.”
Despite being dripping wet, 1,620 runners passed the finish line with smiling faces and were at least met with drier and brighter weather as the morning brightened.
The men’s race was won by Mo Hussein, in a time of one hour, 10 minutes and 38 seconds, almost two minutes clear of second place. The first woman home was Rebecca Randell in one hour, 22 minutes and 48 seconds.
A huge well done to everyone who participated this year.