Swindon “Trail” Half Marathon 9th September 2023 @9am
Welcome to the Swindon “Trail” Half marathon.
As most of you are aware of the recent problems with the Swindon half marathon and more recently the Lets Do This Lydiard half marathon that was cancelled before many could even sign up for it. I had hoped last year would be a big success with lots of entries, but that wasn’t to be.
I have had the idea of a trail half marathon for a couple of years and have 3 or 4 routes planned. And so I thought now, would be the best time to test it out.
The route has been planned to be a loop, reduce the amount of road crossings and to remove the need for road closures. So this has limited the scope of the race and kept it to the West of Swindon.
The first couple of miles are along cycle paths and pavements, joining up to the final section of the 50k event. Taking in Mannington Recreation Ground, Shaw Forest park and Moulden Hill Country park along the way. There are a few road crossings. So as long as care and attention is taken when crossing, there should be no issues.
This is very much a test event. One I hope many of you enjoy. But please do let me know if you have any thoughts on the event or route.
Please do not be scared of this being a trail event. I can assure you, the course is pretty flat. And not overly technical. A great way to dip your toe into trail running, if you have never tried before.
Route Map
https://osmaps.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/route/11579143/Swindon-Trail-Half-Marathon
FAQs
Where do I need be?
The race starts and finishes at Lydiard Park, SN5 3PA
As much as we would like you to cycle, walk or catch a bus to the event (especially local runners), We do have our own designated car park. Around 150 yards past the Hook St entrance, if you are coming from the M4. Just on your right. (Map picture below)
Do I need trail trainers?
Always run in what you feel comfortable. I would say, unless we have some awful weather in the weeks leading up to the race. Road shoes will be fine. The trails involved, are not technical, and the route is pretty flat. Along with a large first section of pavement during the start of the race.
What time do we start?
The race will start at 9am. From our event field. Which is just to the left of the Hook St entrance. You should see the flags…
Will there be feed stations?
We are hoping to have two feed stations. Where you will be able to stock up on nutrition and top up your water bottles. Like our other races, we will always do our best to cater for all. If you have any nutrition needs, please get in touch and let us know.
Is there a cut off?
Yes. We need to have this in place. Firstly to keep runners safe. And secondly, we feel it’s unfair to ask the amazing volunteers to sty on the course for too long. So we have set a four hour cut off time. This works out at 18:19min miles, which should allow beginners to take part and be as inclusive as possible.
Do we need to carry anything?
We are not going to ask you to pack silly amounts of kit in your bag. But you will be required to have some basics.
Sensible clothing (please check the weather beforehand)
A fully charged mobile and a gpx file, either on the phone or on your watch.
The ability to carry at least 0.5L of liquid and a couple of hundred calories of emergency food
And an emergency blanket, just in case
