Fun run, fundraising – thousands take part in 13-mile race across city
THOUSANDS OF fun runners, fundraisers and athletes of all ages and abilities crossed the finish line at the Leeds Half Marathon yesterday.
Many thousands more cheered them on in an event. Some of the competitors aimed for a personal best, a few hoped to win, and others simply aimed to get around the 13.1-mile course – but all helped make the Leeds Half Marathon a success, with many thousands of pounds raised for charities.
The run began outside Leeds Art Gallery, on the Headrow, and followed a course that took runners out of the city centre, along Meanwood Road, Stonegate Road, the Ring Road, down Butcher Hill and Hawksworth Road, along Abbey Road and Kirkstall Road and then back into the city centre for the big finish on the Headrow.
First across line was Joe Sagar in a time of 01:08:07. Jack Kelly took second place 01:11:27 with Benjamin Douglas in third in 01:12:21.
Aisling Wall was the first female across the finish line in 01:23:42 followed by Faye Birkby who clocked 01:23:54 for second spot and Eleanor Warren who took third in 01:24:58.
Children and adults of all ages and abilities also came together for the Arena Group Leeds Fun Run – a 1.2km course starting at Millennium Square that finished on the Headrow.
Tristan Batley-Kyle, from race organiser Run For All, said: “The response to the Leeds Half Marathon never ceases to amaze us. The enthusiasm and support from everyone involved, from the participants to the many spectators, sponsors, partners and volunteers, all ensured the day was a fantastic success.”
Partner charities included the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Alzheimer’s Society, Leeds Hospitals Charity, Candlelighters and Macmillan Cancer Support.
The response to the Leeds Half Marathon never ceases to amaze us.
Tristan Batley-Kyle, from race organiser Run For All.