Cardiff Half Marathon is one of the largest road running events in the United Kingdom, held annually in October in Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Since its inception in 2003, the event has grown into one of Europe’s leading half marathons, attracting a strong field of elite athletes as well as thousands of amateur runners. The race is known for its flat and fast course, its route surrounded by historic landmarks, and its significant role as a fundraising platform for charities.
History and Development
The Cardiff Half Marathon was first organized in 2003 by the charity Barnardo’s, with only 1,500 runners participating. Over the years, the event has seen rapid growth and today hosts approximately 27,500 registered participants annually, making it the largest mass participation sporting event in Wales and a major fundraising platform supporting numerous charities. The race hosted the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships in 2016 and the Commonwealth Half Marathon Championships in 2018. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the event was held virtually in 2020 and 2021.
Route
The race begins on Castle Street in the city center. Participants run past Cardiff Castle, Principality Stadium, Civic Centre, and Cardiff Bay, completing a scenic route featuring historic and natural landmarks. The course extends through Penarth Marina and Cardiff Bay, passing notable sites such as the Norwegian Church and the Wales Millennium Centre before finishing. The flat and fast nature of the course makes it suitable for runners of all levels.
Cardiff Half Marathon Course (Cardiff Half Marathon)
Entry Requirements
Participants can register individually or through official charity partners. Entry fees and fundraising targets vary depending on the method of registration. Runners receive a race pack before the event, including their race number, timing chip, and necessary information. On race day, color-coded starting areas are used. Support facilities include baggage drop-off zones, toilets, medical services, and neuro-inclusive areas for runners.
Cardiff Half Marathon (Generated Using Artificial Intelligence)
Awards and Performances
Prizes are awarded to the top finishers in the men's, women's, and wheelchair categories. Additional awards are given to the best local runners and across various age categories. Beyond elite competition, thousands of runners participate to raise funds for charity. Official pacers accompany runners aiming for specific finish times throughout the race.
Course Records
- Men’s Course Record: Leonard Langat (Kenya) – 59:30 (2019)
- Women’s Course Record: Edith Chelimo (Kenya) – 1:05:52 (2017)
- Wheelchair Category (Men): Danny Sidbury (Great Britain) – 51:34 (2019)
- Wheelchair Category (Women): Mel Nicholls (Great Britain) – 59:42 (2017)
World Records
No world record has been set at the Cardiff Half Marathon. However, the current world records for the half marathon are:
- Men’s World Record: Jacob Kiplimo (Uganda) – 56:42 (February 16, 2025, Barcelona)
- Women’s World Record: Letesenbet Gidey (Ethiopia) – 1:02:52 (October 24, 2021, Valencia)
Cultural Significance and Community Participation
The Cardiff Half Marathon holds a significant place in the cultural and social life of the city. During the event, road closures, open-air activities, live music performances, and spectator zones are organized throughout Cardiff. The race highlights various social issues through its fundraising efforts, raising millions of pounds for charity each year. Approximately 30% of participants run on behalf of a charity.
Organization
The Cardiff Half Marathon is organized by Run 4 Wales, a non-profit organization. It has been awarded the Elite Road Race Label by World Athletics and is a member of AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). The event is part of the SuperHalfs series, along with the half marathons in Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Valencia, and Copenhagen. This series rewards runners who complete all listed races with exclusive badges, digital passport stamps, and a SuperMedal.
