Ilkley was buzzing with energy on Sunday as thousands turned out for the sixth edition of the Ilkley Half Marathon, joined for the first time by runners in the brand-new Ilkley 5K.
Once again, the event organisers, Ilkley Round Table, teamed up with Riverside Gardens Junior Parkrun who had by far their biggest participation to date. Together, the three runs drew an incredible 2415 runners from 4 to 83 years old to the town, making this year’s event the biggest yet as well as cementing it’s place as Wharfedale’s largest sporting event.
Despite the challenging heat, the spirit of the day never faltered. From seasoned club athletes to first-time 5K runners, the determination on show was met with overwhelming support from the community, with thousands of spectators lining the streets to cheer them on.
Despite extensive preparations and precautions the heat did bring it’s challenges, Race Director Michael Odell commented:
“With over 2,400 runners taking part in warm conditions, it’s no surprise that we saw a few people needing medical attention throughout the day.
“As always, the safety and wellbeing of our participants is our top priority, and we’re incredibly grateful to our volunteers, on-site medical team and the emergency services for their swift, professional support throughout the event. We extend our best wishes to those individuals who required medical attention on the day and wish them a swift and full recovery”
Behind the scenes, the team of organisers, supported by more than 200 volunteer Race Makers, kept the event running smoothly - managing everything from water stations and road closures to medals and music.
And what a show it was: runners were treated to a spectacular Spitfire flypast, and as they crossed the finish line, they were greeted with music from three live bands, a bustling kids’ zone, carnival tents, mountains of bananas, and well-earned refreshments - including a whopping 1,700 pints of locally brewed beer poured by Bini Brew Co.
“I can't think of another road running event that has such an amazing event village; with a brilliant selection of food and drink, plus music and activities”
commented one runner after the event.
Another runner who tackled their first ever 5k emphasised the importance of support from spectators;
“As my first ever 5k race, the atmosphere before, during and after was fantastic. Seeing the whole of Ilkley out supporting us all really spurred me on."
Among the standout moments was the inspiring sight of a team of local firefighters completing the course in full kit - complete with breathing apparatus and ladders -earning cheers from the crowd and raising funds for charity. Local fundraising legend Andy Sharpe, who this year ran the route dressed as Ironman, didn’t disappoint crowds either with his signature sprint finish, one of the most impressive of the whole day.
Lauren McNeil won the women’s Half Marathon in 1:12:16, shattering the previous women’s course record by almost 10 minutes despite the heat. Jack Cummings won the men’s Half Marathon in 1:09:09, returning to victory for the first time since storming to victory at the inaugural race back in 2019. Jack is one of only 69 ‘Ilkley Half Marathon Superstars’ who have run all 6 races!
16 year old Jake Norris won the first ever Ilkley 5K in 16 minutes and 16 seconds, even beating GB athlete, Bethan Morely, who was the first female finisher with a time of 17 minutes and 27 seconds. Bethan has previously secured gold medals for Great Britain at world championships in Oman and bronze in Belgrade!
With a record 177 children taking part this week, 13 year old Felix Clarkson was the first finisher in the 2km Junior Parkrun, recording a personal best of 7 minutes 9 seconds. The Ilkley Riverside Gardens Junior Parkrun takes place each Sunday morning at 9am.
Tom Harris, one of the Ilkley Half Marathon & 5K organisers, said after the event:
“It’s hard to put into words just how special this event has become. Every year it grows - not just in numbers, but in heart. From the runners and volunteers to the local businesses and bands, it’s a celebration of everything we love about Ilkley.”
While final fundraising totals are still being calculated, organisers expect to once again surpass £50,000 raised for charity, thanks to the generosity of runners, sponsors and supporters alike.
The Ilkley Half Marathon & 5K has become a true highlight of the town’s calendar - and with this year’s success, the countdown to 2026 has already begun - mark Sunday 12th July on your calendars!
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