HALSTEAD & ESSEX MARATHON

Name: HALSTEAD & ESSEX MARATHON
Start: 2026-05-10T08:30:00+00:00
End: 2026-05-10T08:30:00+00:00
Location: Halstead Leisure Centre, Colne Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2HR
Rating: 4.7

Question 1

When will I get my timing chip?

Accepted Answer

The race will be chip-timed. Your race number, timing chip and baggage label will be available for collection from Race HQ from 7am onwards. Please allow plenty of time for collection. After receiving your race number, please complete the medical declaration on the back – this is for your benefit as well as ours. If you declare any medical conditions then please notify our information desk located at race HQ. Numbers should be placed above waist height and must be visible to marshals and race officials at all times during the race. Do not deface, cut, or fold the number in anyway so as to prevent your number from being clearly read.

Question 2

Can I use personal audio equipment during the race?

Accepted Answer

Due to concerns about safety and awareness, the use of personal audio equipment during the race has been banned in line with UKA rules. Bone conducting headphones are permitted if the race director is notified in advance. Runners must keep the volume at a level that allows them to hear marshal instructions and surrounding traffic. Failing to comply may lead to disqualification.

Question 3

What accommodation is in the area?

Accepted Answer

Full details of local accommodation can be obtained from the Tourist Office in Braintree. Call 01376 550066 or visit www.enjoybraintreedistrict.co.uk for more information.

Question 4

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

From London and the West: 
Take the M11 north from M25 (junction 27) to Junction 8, then the A120 East to the Braintree Bypass. Follow A131 Sudbury signs for five miles to Halstead. In Halstead, continue toward Sudbury, and turn right onto Colne Road after about 400 yards. Race HQ will be on the left with parking nearby.

From the North and Midlands: 
Take the A1/M14 to the M11 near Cambridge, then head south to Junction 8. Follow directions from M11 (as above).

From the Southeast: 
Exit the M25 at Brentwood (junction 28), take A12 northeast, then B1018 to Braintree, and follow A120/A131 toward Halstead. Use directions from A120.

From A1124 Junction with A12: 
Take A1124, a scenic route through Colne Valley, for 9 miles to Halstead. Upon entering Halstead, turn right onto Colne Road. Follow signs and marshals to Race HQ and parking.

From East Anglia;
Travel south down the A12 driving round the Colchester bypass until you reach the A1124 Junction. See above for directions from the A12.

From Harwich Car Ferry (28 Miles):
Take the A120 to Colchester and drive round the bypass to the A1124 Junction. See above for directions from the A12.

From Felixstowe Car Ferry (37 miles:
Take the A14 to A12 junction. Travel south (London and Colchester) and drive round the Colchester bypass to the A1124 Junction. See above for directions from the A12.

From Stansted Airport :
See above for directions from the M11.

Question 5

Where can I park?

Accepted Answer

Parking is not available at Race HQ, as this area is designated for emergency services and visitors to the Leisure Centre. However, we offer a dedicated parking area for runners. Please refrain from parking in the nearby streets, and instead, follow the instructions from the marshals to reach the parking lot, which is accessible from Upper Fen Road and is just a short walk—under a minute—from Race HQ. Organizers cannot take responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents. We also encourage car sharing whenever possible to help reduce environmental impact.

Question 6

Where is the race HQ?

Accepted Answer

The race starts and finishes at Halstead Leisure Centre, located at Colne Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2HR, which serves as Race HQ. The centre offers refreshments, showers, toilets, changing facilities, and baggage storage, all accessible from the rear of the complex beyond the Start/Finish line. It also features a 25m swimming pool. For inquiries, call 01787 472480.

Question 7

Is there a bag drop facility?

Accepted Answer

Participants can leave baggage at Race HQ by clearly labeling it with their race number and securely attaching the label. Directions to the secure storage area will be provided. Runners should allow enough time for drop-off, as queues may occur. Baggage is stored at the owner’s risk; the event organizers are not liable for any loss, theft, or damage, except in cases of negligence.

Question 8

Are refreshments available at race HQ?

Accepted Answer

Tea and coffee will be available for purchase at the start/finish area and vending machines are available inside. The Kings Head at Pebmarsh (on the course) will open at 10 AM, serving bacon and sausage baguettes with hash browns until noon, as well as a selection of drinks.

Question 9

What is the course like?

Accepted Answer

The race course features picturesque country lanes with gentle hills, described by many runners as one of the most beautiful marathon routes. Starting in Halstead, it includes an ‘out-run’ through Pebmarsh, followed by a 10.5-mile loop run mostly twice and a return the race HQ for the finish after the second lap. The course primarily uses secondary roads, with a brief 400m track section in the final mile.

There are mile markers throughout and runners are provided five water stations, which they will pass eight times. There's an option to deliver personal drinks to the water stations, but participants should limit their contributions to three drinks to ensure fairness. Drinks should be clearly labeled with the runner's number. Rubbish must be disposed of responsibly at water stations to help keep the countryside clean.

The course is well-marshalled and signed, although marshals may begin to withdraw after five hours due to volunteer constraints. While there’s no official time limit, participants are encouraged to keep this in mind. Dogs, wheeled carriages (except wheelchairs), and cyclists accompanying runners are not allowed. The course may not be suitable for wheelchair athletes so please contact us for further information before booking. If a runner cannot finish, they should report to the nearest marshal for transport back to the finish.

The course isn't recommended for wheelchair athletes, so please contact us for further course information before entering.

Question 10

Are there any water stations?

Accepted Answer

There are five water stations (simply numbered 1 to 5) of which three are visited twice. Water will be available in cups at: • Water Station 1 – Mile 3 • Water Station 2 – Miles 5.5 & 17.5 • Water Station 3 – Miles 8.5 & 21 • Water Station 4 – Mile 14.5 • Water Station 5 – Miles 11.5 & 23.5 We also provide the facility to deliver runners own drinks to the water stations: • Runners should clearly label/mark their own drinks with their running number before they arrive on race day and place them in the crates (numbered 1 to 5) at Race HQ. • For logistical reasons when the crates are full the service is suspended. • Runners drinks will be delivered to the course at 8:45am. • We strongly advise runners to arrive early should they wish to take up this facility. • Please be fair to fellow runners and bring no more than three. • Runners may also attach one gel to each drink (securely with selotape, not an elastic band).

Question 11

Can I run with my dog?

Accepted Answer

No dogs are allowed in the race unless they are assistance dogs. If you require an assistance dog to run with then please notify the check in desk and Race Director.

Question 12

Will there be medical cover for the race?

Accepted Answer

These are under the supervision of the Medical Director from Challenge Running first aid, based at Race HQ, with cover as defined by UK Athletics. They’ll be patrolling the course, and an ambulance is on standby throughout the race. You’re reminded that you should ensure that you’re in good health on the day of the race. Please be aware that you compete at your own risk. Please don’t forget to complete the medical declaration on the back of your running number – this is for your benefit as well as ours.

Question 13

Where is best for spectators to watch from?

Accepted Answer

Halstead Leisure Centre, serving as Race HQ, offers ample facilities and space for spectators for the start and finish of the race. Friends and family are encouraged to bring deck chairs to enjoy the finish line. Course maps are available at the Information Desk. Please remind spectators to park responsibly, as not all road users may be mindful of runners. A great spot for watching the race is Levit's Corner, where runners pass three times. Parking is available at the Football Club near Pebmarsh (what3words location - headset.stream.clustered). If you plan to head out to Pebmarsh, please aim to arrive for 10am. The runners will start passing through the village from 10:20am. You may be held in traffic by marshals if you arrive in the village at the same time as the runners.

Directions to Pebmarsh - Drive out of Halstead towards Sudbury. Ignore the first sign to Pebmarsh. Turn right just opposite the Little India restaurant. Follow road to junction, turn right then up to another junction (signed 11&23 miles). Turn right then left at next junction. Then left into the football field. It is approximately a 15 minute drive from the start area.

There are porta toilet facilities at the football field in Pebmarsh and just up from the church in Pebmarsh in the village hall. The nearest refreshments will be available at The King’s Head or at Courtyard Stores at Cross End.

When you arrive back in Halstead, please DO NOT park on surrounding roads or in the leisure centre. park back in the runner’s car park area which is a 1 minute walk to the finish line.

We ask all spectators to please park responsibly out on the course. We also remind spectators and runners that runners are NOT to be accompanied, or followed, by supporters on bicycles at any time during the race. Please also avoid driving around the course to follow your runner.

Question 14

What is the Essex Road Running Championships?

Accepted Answer

This is a series of road races for UKA affiliated runners who were born in, or have been resident in Essex for 9 months. The Essex County Amateur Athletic Association Road Race Secretary’s decision as to eligibility is final. Entry on the day is not possible. The closing date to be included in the championship is to be confirmed (April 2025). Awards are made to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers (both male and female) and first 3 finishing teams (both male and female). Also the following age category awards: Male & Female – Open (18-39), V40, V45, V50, V55, V60, V65, V70 & Teams.

Question 15

Are there trophies for winners?

Accepted Answer

The Race Director’s decision as to the distribution of trophies is final. There will be 2 presentations starting at approximately 12.30pm: the Halstead & Essex Marathon and the Essex County Championships. The Halstead & Essex Marathon trophies are: • Male 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70. • Female 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70. • 1st Male and Female Teams (Please note that a team comprises of the 1st 3 finishing runners from a club). All trophies must be collected on the day, unless £10 is left with the Race Director to cover postage and packaging. Please refer to the latest information on the Essex Championships website for information regarding the Essex Championships awards.

Question 16

I can no longer run. Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we are not able to offer refunds in the case of withdrawal from the race or non-appearance on race day. Your entry fee will be added to the monies that Halstead Road Runners donates to charity.

Entries cannot be refunded after purchase unless the event is cancelled. If we cancel the event (for any reason) you will receive a refund of the entry fee. Personal arrangements including travel, accommodation or hospitality relating to the Event which have been arranged by you are at your own risk. Liability for the cancellation or rescheduling of an Event will be limited to the refund as set out in these terms and conditions.

You can transfer your place (up until the transfer deadline date) to another runner. You can also take out race insurance at the time of ticket purchase.

Question 17

Can I defer my place to next year?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we are not able to offer deferrals. You can transfer your place (up until the transfer deadline date) to another runner. You can also take out race insurance at the time of ticket purchase.

Question 18

Can I transfer my place to another runner?

Accepted Answer

Yes, If you would like to transfer you place then you can do using the link on your entry confirmation email. You are responsible to finding another runner to take your place and arranging any payments between you both.

Question 19

What are the current course records?

Accepted Answer

The new men’s record is 2:28:08 (Mohammed Elbayan – Cholchester Harriers – 2025). The women’s record is 2:53:22 (Ellie Baverstock – Orion Harriers RC – 2023). If either the 1st male or female runners beat the respective course records they will be awarded a prize of £200

Question 20

Will there be a pre-race briefing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There will be a pre-race briefing at 9am at race HQ, afterwards, please please stand in a time zone that you feel you can achieve at the start line. To be respectful to all competitors please do not line up in the front if you are a slower runner.

Question 21

Are there any safety considerations on course?

Accepted Answer

Please keep left on the route where possible and be aware of your surroundings and possible traffic on the road. No one is to accompany the runners unless properly entered as a competitor. The race is headed and followed by cyclists. These mark the beginning and end of the race entry. The event will be fully marshalled by members of Halstead Road Runners and volunteers, who will be there to provide vocal encouragement and support to all participants, and to ensure your safety throughout. Please obey their instructions.

Please obey the Countryside Code and respect all other people and animals out on the course and respect other competitors on the course. Please do not litter on the course. There are plenty or marshals along the route who will collect litters, cups, bottles, gel packets etc from you. Enjoy your run!

Question 22

What are your terms and conditions?

Accepted Answer

Halstead Road Runners (HRR) Marathon Conditions of Entry

1	DEFINITIONS

In these Conditions the following definitions shall apply:

"Entry Form" means the on-line entry form which must be submitted in order to participate in the Event;

"Event" means the HRR Marathon organised by the Event Organisers;

"Conditions" means these terms and conditions of entry for the Event; "Event Date" means the announced date of the Event;
"Fee" means the fee payable by you in consideration of your participation in the Event as set out on the Entry Form;

"we", "us", "our", or "the Event Organisers" means: Halstead Road Runners.

1.1	By submitting your application, you are agreeing to enter into the Event and also agree to abide by these Conditions and any instructions given to you by the Event Organisers and officials of the Event.

1.2	You must pay the Fee at the time of entry upon submission of the Entry Form. No payment shall be deemed to have been received until the Event Organisers have received cleared funds and an acknowledgement and confirmation is sent to you from the Event Organisers.

1.3	Entries on the day will only be available at the Race Directors discretion if the even hasn’t been sold out, and will only be accepted in person at the race HQ registration desk with the fee being paid in cash

1.4	The minimum age of entry is 18 years old on or before the Event Date 

1.5	Participants in the Event are subject to the UKA competition rules and the rules of the IAAF and England Athletics. If there is any conflict between these rules and the Conditions, the Conditions shall apply to the extent of the conflict.

2	EVENT SAFETY

2.1	At all times during the Event, you must adhere to all instructions given by the Event officials.

2.2	Participation in the Event is personal to you; you are strictly prohibited from swapping, selling or transferring or offering to sell, swap or transfer the place in the Event or allowing any other person to wear your Event number. Any breach of this Condition shall render the entry void. If you are found to be in breach of this Condition, we reserve the right to exclude you from participation in future Events.
 
2.3	You are not permitted to use the following items in the Event: -

(a)	any wheeled device; other than wheelchairs. Please contact marathon@halsteadroadrunners.org.uk before entering as a wheelchair athlete to discuss course suitability.

(b)	any artificial aids: 

(c)	any pets or animals other than assistance animals. Please contact marathon@halsteadroadrunners.org.uk before entering to discuss requirements and course suitability.

(d)	any other item that could potentially inhibit the flow or safety of other participants or which we, in our reasonable opinion, deem may cause danger or risk of danger to you or other participants.

(e)	Any headphones: other than those medically prescribed (to comply with UKA regulations) and Bone Conducting headphones



2.4	You warrant to us that you will be on the Event Date, sufficiently fit and healthy to participate in the Event unaided and in accordance with the Agreement. If you are in any doubt we recommend that you seek medical advice.

2.5	We reserve the right to impose cut-off times for sections of the Event to ensure the safe and proper running of the Event. If you do not meet any imposed cut-off times you may be asked to withdraw from the Event.

3	EVENT EJECTION

3.1	We reserve the right to refuse entry to the Event or to ask you to cease participation if:

(a)	you fail to follow instructions given by Event officials;

(b)	you attempt to participate in the Event in a manner that we, acting reasonably, believe:

(i)	may cause injury to you or another participant;

(ii)	may damage or harm the environment;

(iii)	in our opinion is likely to cause offence; or

(iv)	otherwise causes a risk or potential risk to health and safety;

(c)	in our opinion you are unfit to participate in the Event due to:

(i)	the consumption or use of alcohol or drugs;

(ii)	an injury or illness;

(d)	you fail to arrive at the start location at the specified time; or

(e)	you are unable to make sufficient progress in the Event to allow you to complete the event in line with timelines set by Event officials. Competitors will only be eligible for a medal and to feature in the results if they complete the course before the official cut off time as determined by the Event Organisers (subject to variation at the organisers' discretion).

4	If, in accordance with Condition 3, you are refused entry to the Event or we ask you to cease participation in the Event, you must remove your runner's identification number and electronic chip and return them to an Event official. No refund will be given.

5	CANCELLATION BY YOU

Cancellations, deferrals and refunds are not permitted other than if we cancel the event. Insurance is available as an extra option at the point of the online ticket purchase, should you need to cancel and require a refund

If you withdraw from the Event at any other time before or during the Event you shall not be entitled to a refund of your Fee.

If the Participant withdraws from the Event more than 4 weeks (28 days) before the commencement of the Event, he/she can transfer his/her place to another person. He/she will need to find the Participant to transfer the place to, as the Event Organiser does not manage a list of transfers. The Participant (and original Participant) shall be solely responsible for recovery of the Event Fee from any transferee. The original place will be automatically withdrawn once the unique transfer link has been sent to the new Participant and the transfer is complete. All transfers must be complete at least 4 weeks (28 days) before the commencement of the Event – no exceptions. Entries are non-transferable to another event in the current year or in future years.

6	CANCELLATION BY US

6.1	We may cancel the Event if circumstances beyond our reasonable control arise, including, without limitation, war, civil or political unrest, terrorism, road closures or inclement weather conditions.

6.2	In such circumstances:

(a)	We will, if practicable, provide advance written notice of cancellation to you. In the event that written notice is not practicable due to the timescales involved we will use reasonable endeavours to provide other suitable methods of notice including, e-mail, mobile phone or text message; and

6.3	In the event of cancellation of the Event we will have no responsibility for any costs incurred as a result of cancellation including any travel or accommodation costs.

7	CHANGES TO THE EVENT

7.1	We reserve the right to change the course, start time, or make any other amendment to the Event that we deem necessary to stage the Event. Any change to the Event will be communicated to you at the Event or sooner if practicable. If we make any changes to the Event, we will not incur any liability to you and you will not accrue any rights to withdraw from the Event.

If we change the Event Date and you are unable to attend the Event on the revised date, you are entitled to withdraw from the Event and receive a full refund of your entry Fee. To exercise this right, you must notify the Event Organisers in writing within 14 days from the date when the change is announced. You should email:marathon@halsteadroadrunners.org.uk

7.2	Should the course distance be reduced in accordance with 6.1, for the avoidance of doubt, you agree that the Event is still deemed to be staged and that we will not be liable to you for any refund.

8	DATA PROTECTION

8.1	For the purposes of this Condition, personal information includes medical data collected for health and safety purposes ("Personal Information").

8.2	You agree that the Personal Information relating to you can be stored, used by us and our Event partners, in connection with the organisation, staging and administration of the Event.

8.3	Medical information may also be used to allow medical assistance to be given to you.
 
8.4	You agree that the Personal Information relating to you may be anonymised and the anonymised data may be used by us and our Event partners in connection with the compilation of statistical information.

8.5	You agree that your name, image and contact details can be used by us and our Event partners for the purposes of:

(a)	the promotion and marketing of the Event;

(b)	adding you to a mailing list to keep you informed about any future events and services which we believe you might be interested in, such as leisure activities relating to either similar types of events or activities;

(c)	promotional and marketing material in respect of similar events, other community- based activities organised by our Event Partners, (together the "Marketing Information").

8.6	If you would not like us or our Event partners to use the Marketing Information or Personal Information other than for purposes related to you participation in the Event, please email us at marathon@halsteadroadrunners.org.uk. You may also withdraw your consent by ticking the appropriate box on your application form.

9	USE OF IMAGE

9.1	The Event may be televised, filmed and/or otherwise recorded and photographs may be taken all of which may capture your participation in the Event. You agree to the publication of such photographs, filming, recording and broadcasts and their use by us and those authorised by us in any way which we may see fit now or in the future including but not limited to film, broadcast, radio, TV, publications and publicity.

9.2	Any audio, visual, or audio-visual recordings that you make of the Event or any part of it are for personal use only and cannot be used for any commercial purpose.

10	LIABILITY

10.1	In no event shall we be liable to you whether for breach of contract, any tortious act or omission (including negligence) or otherwise, under or in connection with the Agreement for any:

(a)	loss or damage;

(b)	loss of profit;

(c)	loss of reputation;

(d)	loss of business, revenue or goodwill;

(e)	loss of anticipated savings;

(f)	pledges made on your behalf or by you to charity; or

(g)	consequential or indirect loss, regardless of whether the loss or damage: (a) would arise in the ordinary course of events; (b) is reasonably foreseeable; or (c) is in the contemplation of the parties, or otherwise.

10.2	The Event Organiser shall not be liable for any actions of any spectators or other third parties.

10.3	Nothing in this Agreement shall affect our liability for death or personal injury, fraud, or any other liability to the extent it cannot be excluded or limited by law.
 
11	GENERAL

11.1	These Conditions (and the documents or announcements referred to in them) constitute the entire agreement and understanding of the Parties and supersede any previous agreement between the Parties relating to the Event.

11.2	No waiver by either Party of a breach or default of these Conditions shall be effective unless in writing and signed by both Parties and such waiver shall not be deemed to be a waiver of any subsequent breach or default of the same nature.

11.3	The Agreement shall be governed by English law and the parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

11.4	If any provision of the Agreement is invalid or unenforceable, in whole or in part, the validity of the remainder shall not be affected.

11.5	The Agreement does not create, confer or purport to confer any benefit or right enforceable by any person not party to it.

11.6	The race director’s decision as to the distribution of trophies is final. There will be two presentations starting around 2:15pm: The Halstead & Essex Marathon and the Essex County Championships.

The Halstead & Essex Marathon trophies are:

Male 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70.
Female 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70.
1st Male and Female teams (please note that a team comprises of the 1st 3 finishing runners from a club. 
All trophies must be collected on the day, unless £10 is left with the Race Director to cover postage and packaging.

More information on the Essex County Championships can be found at: essexathletics.co.uk



Last updated: October 2024

Question 23

Do you give to charities?

Accepted Answer

We aim to give a large percentage of any profits and all donations to locals school and charities.

Question 24

Declarations and Data protection

Accepted Answer

By participating in our race you declare that you are over the minimum age (18) for this event and you accept that the organisers and sponsors will not be liable for any loss, damage, action claim, cost or expenses which may arise in consequence of your participation in the event. You declare that you will ensure that you are in good health on the day of the race and, that in any event, you will compete at your own risk. You declare that you will abide by the UK Athletics Rules of Competition, including anti-doping rules. you agree to abide by the UAK rules regarding headphones (no headphones other than bone conducting headphones) and to abide by our terms and conditions. You agree to be contacted by our sponsors for marketing purposes, unless you have specified otherwise at the time of entry. Finally, you agree that our photographers may capture your image and that this image will appear on the photographers website, may appear on our own website (www.halsteadroadrunners.org.uk) and publicity in other media outlets along with our race report/results.

Question 25

Will there be race day photographs?

Accepted Answer

Yes! we are pleased to announce that our professional photograher, Ben Brown, will be out on course taking race day photos, available to buy online afterwards. Ben regularly photographs the Halstead Road Runners at summer handicap races and also took part on the race last year, so knows the course well.

www.lavenhamphotographic.co.uk

Question 26

What are the race day instructions?

Accepted Answer

Race Information and Runners’ Instructions

Halstead & Essex Marathon
Sunday 11th May 2025 at 09:30am

Certificate of Course Accuracy: 25/009
UK Athletics Road Race Licence: 2025/28646

Thank you for entering the Halstead & Essex Marathon. We hope you enjoy our marathon!
Please take time to read the important race day information below.

RCE NUMBER AND CHIP TIMING
Our 2025 race will be chip timed. Your race number contains your timing chip and a baggage label will be available for collection from Race HQ from 7:30am onwards. Please allow plenty of time for collection. After receiving your race number, please complete the medical declaration on the back – this is for your benefit as well as ours IF YOU DECLARE ANY MEDICAL CONDITION PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU NOTIFY OUR INFORMATION DESK LOCATED IN THE VENUE

VENUE
The race starts and finishes at Halstead Leisure Centre, Colne Road, Halstead, Essex CO9 2HR which will act as Race HQ. There will be refreshments, showers, toilets, masseurs, changing and baggage storage facilities, all accessed from the rear of the complex beyond the Start/Finish line. Halstead Leisure Centre provides many other sports facilities including a 25m swimming pool; for further information call 01787 472480.

Doors open at 7:30am. Please arrive no later than 8.15am to allow time for parking, collection of your entry pack and storage of baggage. The Start and Finish is adjacent to Race HQ.

BAGGAGE
If you wish to leave your baggage at Race HQ please use the tear off strip on your race bib and attach it securely to your baggage. There will be directions to the secure storage facility from the Main Hall. Please leave plenty of time to drop off any baggage as there are likely to be queues. Baggage is stored at your own risk.

DIRECTIONS
Halstead is 7 miles north of Braintree on the A131. From the south go up the High Street towards Sudbury until you see the bright orange signs which turn you left continue to a mini roundabout and follow the signs to the parking area.. From the north and Sudbury you’ll be directed to turn left at the top of the high street then continue to follow signs to the parking area. From Colchester and the east (A1124) you’ll be directed to turn right 400 yards after entering the town. Detailed directions can be found on our website.

CAR PARKING
Please don’t park in the adjacent streets but follow the marshals’ directions to the car park on Upper Fenn Road, which is less than a 1 minute walk from Race HQ. There’s no parking at Race HQ as this is reserved for emergency services and patrons of the Leisure Centre. We regret that the organisers can take no responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents. We encourage you to lift share where possible to minimise the impact on the environment.

ACCOMODATION
Full details of local accommodation can be obtained from the Tourist Office in Braintree. Call 01376 550066 or visit www.enjoybraintreedistrict.co.ukfor more information. General information can also be found on our website.

ARRIVAL
Please arrive sooner rather than later and collect your race number immediately and do not leave it until the last minute to store your baggage and use the toilets. Using these facilities early will help us keep any queues to a minimum.

WEATHER
Over the years, we have generally been blessed with some pretty good weather and running conditions, often a bit too warm, although obviously never guaranteed. Currently the forecast for Sunday is overcast but warm (around 19-22 degrees C). Please keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately, consider reducing your pace if the weather gets any hotter and pack some warm clothes for after the race.

COURSE DESCRIPTION
(There’s a full description, elevation map etc. on our website). The race is mainly through quiet and picturesque country lanes, undulating with small valleys. Many runners state this is the most beautiful marathon course they have ever run. There’s an ‘out-run’ from Halstead through Pebmarsh into the lanes of the Essex/Suffolk border, where the route enters a 10 ½ mile loop, most of which is run twice, in 2015 this route has changed so please be aware. After completing most of the second lap there’s a different mile-long ‘in-run’ back to Race HQ. The route is almost all on secondary roads but there is a short section of gravel path (400m) in the final mile. If you should feel that you’re unable to complete the course you should report to the nearest marshall who will arrange transport for you back to the finish. If you don’t complete the course you must not cross the Finish Line and are asked to report to the officials at the Finish Line and state you didn’t complete the race.

There are mile markers throughout. 5 water stations serve runners 10 times. We also provide the facility for you to have your own drinks delivered to the water stations. You should clearly label your own drink(s) with your running number and place them in the containers (numbered 1 to 5) at Race HQ. Should this facility be of interest, we strongly recommend that you arrive early. For logistical reasons we cannot commit to delivering an unlimited number of drinks, so when the crates are full the service will be suspended. Runners' drinks will be delivered to the course at 7:45am. We ask you to be fair to each other and bring no more than 3 drinks each (since any more is unnecessary given the provision of water). You may also attach 1 gel to your drink(s) securely with sticky tape. Please deposit rubbish at a water station or drop it close to a sign to help us keep our countryside beautiful.

The course is marshalled throughout, with experienced runners at key locations. In addition, the course is very well sign posted so that runners continuing after marshals have withdrawn will be able to follow the route. Whilst we don’t have a time limit on the race, we reserve the right to begin to withdraw marshals after 5 hours. We have adopted this policy due to the long day for all our volunteers, First Aid and Race HQ staff. Water stations and signage will remain in place until the last runner and tail bike have completed the course.

Dogs and wheeled carriages, other than wheelchairs, are banned from the course. Runners must not be accompanied, or followed, by others on cycles. Unfortunately, the course is not suitable for wheelchair athletes.

TOILETS
Toilets will be available outside the sports hall at Race HQ in the leisure centre, inside the leisure centre in the changing rooms, and on course in Pebmarsh.

HEADPHONES
In line with England Athletic rules on open road races. Only bone conducting earphones are permitted due to safety. The race organiser reserve the right to disqualify anyone breaking this rule.

MEDICAL ARRAGEMENTS
Challenge First Aid are based at Race HQ. They’ll be patrolling the course and have medical staff on standby throughout the race. You’re reminded that you should ensure that you’re in good health on the day of the race. Please be aware that you compete at your own risk. We provide medical cover as defined by UK Athletics. Please don’t forget to complete the medical declaration on the back of your running number – this is for your benefit as well as ours.

INFORMATION DESK AND COMMUNICATION CENTRE
The Information Desk is in the Main Hall at the Leisure Centre (please follow the signs around the side of the building to the rear entrance) and is manned by our Communications Coordinator during the race. We’re in communication with all officials including the Course Director, First Aid, water stations and most of the course marshals. In addition we’ll have a room available in the unlikely event of an emergency.

SPECTATORS
There are a number of convenient places to watch the race. Maps of the course, for spectators, will be available at the Information Desk. Please ask your friends and family to park responsibly whilst out on the course.

ESSEX COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS
UKA affiliated runners who were born in, or have been resident in Essex for 9 months or more are eligible for this championship. The Essex County Amateur Athletic Association Road Race Secretary’s decision as to eligibility is final. Entry on the day is not possible. The closing date to be included in the championship is 4th May 2025. Awards are made to first 3 finishing teams, both male and female, and the following age category awards: Male – open, over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 and 70+. Female – open, over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65 and 70+.

TROPHY PRESENTATIONS
The Race Director’s decision as to the distribution of trophies is final. Presentations will start at from 12.30pm depending on finishing times. The Halstead & Essex Marathon trophies are:

● Male 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70+
● Female 1st to 3rd place and 1st over 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70+
● 1st Male and Female Teams (Please note that a team comprises of the 1st 3 finishing runners from a club).

All trophies must be collected on the day, unless £10 is left with the Race Director to cover postage and packaging.

RECORDS
If either the 1st male or female runners beat the respective course records they will be awarded a prize of £200. The women’s record is 2:53:22 (set by Ellie Baverstock of Orion Harriers, 2023). The men’s record is 2:29:58 (set by Pete Robinson of Springfield Striders, 2022).

RESULTS
Race results will appear on this website as soon as they are available.

PHOTOGRAPHS
A link to the photographs taken on the day will be posted on the website as soon as they are available.

SPONSORS & THIRD PARTIES
This year, we have had a number of sponsors and local businesses support the race including Pullingers Motor Homes, Tutton Scaffolding, Holmes & Hills Solicitors, Whitehouse Business Solutions, AH Joinery, Darkins, Transporter, Halstead Physio, Eurospares, NCF, T&S, EA Vehicle Hire, Fuel the runner, Lavenham Photographic, Tesco, Fairfield Crisps, Chew it Over, MTM Plant hire, Braintree Council and Fusion. Several will be in attendance so please pay them a visit. They would love to see you.

CHARITIES AND DONATIONS
Profits and donations from the marathon are to be distributed to local schools for sporting opportunities and charities. Our charities for the 2025 event are:

● Ramsey Secondary School
● St Andrews Primary School
● Richard De Clare Primary School
● Holy Trinity Primary school
● Halstead Day Centre
● Halstead in Bloom

DECLARATION AND DATA PROTECTION
By participating in our race you declare that you are over the minimum age (18) for this event and you accept that the organisers and sponsors will not be liable for any loss, damage, action claim, cost or expenses which may arise in consequence of your participation in the event. You declare that you will ensure that you are in good health on the day of the race and, that in any event, you will compete at your own risk. You declare that you will abide by the UK Athletics Rules of Competition. Finally, you agree that our photographers may capture your image and that this image may appear on our own website and marketing material.

HALSTEAD & ESSEX MARATHON

Halstead Road Runners

HALSTEAD & ESSEX MARATHON

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