Ilkley is getting ready to welcome thousands of runners to town this Sunday (13 July) as the Ilkley Half Marathon returns – and this year, it’s bringing a brand new 5K race along with it.
The event is shaping up to be another fantastic day for the local community, with more than 2,500 runners expected to take part. But locals are being reminded to check road closure information carefully, as the race route winds its way through Ilkley, Ben Rhydding, Addingham, and the surrounding villages.
All roads on the route will be closed from 10am and will reopen gradually as the last runners pass by. The organisers have published estimated re-opening times for key points along the course, with most roads reopening between 11:30am and 2:00pm, depending on location.
The good news is that the introduction of the 5K race won’t delay the re-opening of the A65, which is still expected to be fully open again by around noon. However, closures in Ben Rhydding and Ilkley are likely to stay in place until just before midday.
Runners are invited from 8am to the event village on West Holmes Field, the Half Marathon starts at 10:30am and the new 5k starts at 11:00am.
If you're not running this year, there’s still plenty of ways to get involved. Residents are being encouraged to line the route, make some noise, and give the runners a big Ilkley welcome.
One organiser said:
“Banners, clapping, cheering - we’ll take it all - It really does make a difference for the runners.”
Organisers are also on the lookout for more volunteers, or ‘Race Makers’, to help things run smoothly on the day. If you’ve got a bit of time to spare, you can email volunteers@ilkleyhalfmarathon.co.uk to sign up - there are roles for all ages and abilities.
Local charities and community groups are also reminded that they can still apply to receive funding from the proceeds of the race. It’s a great way for the event to give back to the town.
The event village will feature a fantastic kids zone with inflatables, assault course, climbing wall and bungee trampolines. Furthermore, it will contain an extensive range of Street food, barista coffee, bar, retailers and live music.
For full details on road closures, timings, or how to get involved, visit ilkleyhalfmarathon.co.uk/road-closures. Any further questions can be directed to enquiries@ilkleyhalfmarathon.co.uk.
Whether you’re running, cheering, volunteering - or just planning your route through town - it’s set to be another brilliant day for Ilkley. See you at the finish line!
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