Basingstoke Half Marathon rated one of the best in country

The Destination Basingstoke Shire Half-Marathon, which is only two years old, was given an overall score of 95 per cent from Runner’s World magazine – making it one of the top 10 in the country. The ratings were given by runners who were asked about their views on the course, event organisation, atmosphere and other factors that influenced their experience.

Felicity Edwards, managing director at Destination Basingstoke, said: “We are delighted by this achievement – to be rated above some of the biggest and best known half-marathons is great. The good organisation of the race was picked out as one of its distinguishing features, as well as the superb atmosphere created by the phenomenal support from the crowds and our wonderful marshals.”

As part of the run-in to this year’s event, the team at Destination Basingstoke will run the distance equivalent to 100 half-marathons before the 2013 race on October 6, to raise funds for St Michael’s Hospice, in Aldermaston Road. As keen runners, the organisers of the Basingstoke Half-Marathon are often frustrated at not being able to take part in the race, and so have decided to set themselves a personal challenge.

Nina Muir, assistant race director, said: “We have agreed to run the equivalent distance of 100 half marathons – 1,310 miles – between now and our own race on October 6. It is going to be tough as we all have pretty busy lives but it will be great to have a goal out of work that we can all contribute to.”

Kathryn Price, marketing and events manager, added: “I’m not really a runner but I am not going to let that get in the way – it’s a new challenge for me and I’m determined to do my bit, as well as raise some funds for St Michael’s Hospice.”

The four members of the team hope to raise £1 for every mile they run. To sponsor them, visit justgiving.com/DestinationBasingstoke100HalfMarathons.

For more information about the half-marathon event, including how to enter, visit basingstokehalfmarathon.com.