A new era for distance running in Wales will get underway at Sunday’s ABP Newport Wales Marathon and 10K.
Almost 6,000 runners will take-on the gruelling 26.2 distance with another 4,000 competing in the 10K race. Around 30,000 supporters and spectators are expected to line the city’s streets.
What time will it start?
The ABP Newport Wales Marathon and 10K take place on Sunday 29 April. The marathon begins at 09:00 and the 10K starts at 09:45.
What’s the route?
The route for the inaugural ABP Newport Wales Marathon has been devised by double Olympic marathon runner Steve Brace. It will start and finish on Newport’s vibrant riverfront and can boast being one of the flattest marathon routes in the UK.
The single loop route will take runners past the University of South Wales and the bustling Friars Walk shopping centre before heading over the SDR Bridge, through the east of the city and into its rural areas. Before a sprint finish along the River Usk, runners will get the chance to take in the coastal wildlife on show at the Gwent Levels and Newport Wetlands – one of the UK’s most popular bird watching sites.
The 10K route also starts on the Riverfront and takes in the regenerated city centre and Newport Transporter Bridge.
Where is the Race Village?
The Race Village will be setup in the shadow of the Newport Wave alongside the River Usk. There is something for all ages so bring the family down before taking in the start of both races just a short walk down Usk Way.
It will host family friendly entertainment, sports activities and live entertainment. Visit our exciting sponsors and exhibitors, grab a post-race massage, or celebrate your achievements at the bar! There’s also a whole host of eating and leisure options at the nearby Friars Walk shopping centre.
What else is going on?
The ABP Newport Wales Marathon is much more than a 26.2 mile race. The runners of tomorrow will get their spot in the limelight during the Family Mile. ABP have donated places to local school children, who will get an authentic race day experience as they start and finish under the gantry at 12:30. Before they set-off, they will have the opportunity to warm up with Welsh track legend Christian Malcolm as part of his foundation initiative.
There is also a mascot race featuring a showdown between Newport’s rugby and football teams.
Where can I park on race day?
A park and ride service is operating from the Office for National Statistics but is now sold. Details of parking options in the city can be found here. The following carparks are unavailable for use during the event: Emlyn Street, Riverfront and Friars Walk car parks – but Park Square has been opened for runners and spectators.
Will there be road closures?
Road closure will begin in the early hours of Sunday 29 April and are necessary to allow the race to take place and to safeguard runners.
Residents and businesses along the route have received full written details and a number of information events have been held.
View maps and details of road closures along the route.
A list of affected roads is also available at www.newport.gov.uk/marathon
Where is the best place to watch?
Running 26 miles is a real achievement and the support the runners get is hugely important, so luckily there are plenty of places you can catch one or even two glimpses of your loved ones.
Use the @Run4Wales app to track your loved one's estimated finish time and arrange your meet up at the meeting points. ?
Download for IOS: https://t.co/UC4jKgejZO
Download for Android: https://t.co/HmbCXv0pW2 pic.twitter.com/EE5iKyBr3P
— ABP Newport Wales Marathon (@NewportWales262) April 27, 2018
There will be a party atmosphere at the start/finish area on Usk Way, and plenty of places to show your support near the Transporter Bridge and in the picturesque villages of Redwick and Magor.
Lead Charity Partner, the NSPCC, are offering local residents and spectators a unique opportunity to get involved in the race day atmosphere. They’re offering an ABP Newport Wales Marathon & 10K cheer pack, which comes with pom poms, whistles, cowbells and much more! To get yours, simply email [email protected]
