More than 10,000 runners took to the streets of Brighton on Sunday for the 35th Brighton Half Marathon, with tens of thousands of spectators lining the route to cheer them on. Despite ongoing demolition work on the Royal Albion Hotel that had closed a section of the seafront road for a week, the race proceeded along its traditional course.
The event kicked off at approximately 09:30 GMT from Hove Lawns, where it also concluded, providing a scenic and vibrant backdrop for the runners. The race was officially started by comedian and actor Joe Wilkinson, who then participated in the event to raise funds for the Sussex Beacon charity. Wilkinson completed the course in 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 21 seconds.
Among the notable participants was Chris Ward, Labour MP for Brighton Kemptown and Peacehaven, who also ran to support Sussex Beacon. The charity provides specialist care and support for individuals living with HIV, and the marathon remains one of its biggest fundraising events of the year.
The men’s race saw a record-breaking performance from Ethiopian-born Seyfu Jamaal, who completed the course in an impressive 64 minutes and 30 seconds. Jamaal, a former refugee, achieved the feat while fasting for Ramadan, meaning he could not eat or drink during the race.
In the women’s category, Christa Cain secured victory with a time of 76 minutes and 19 seconds. Meanwhile, the wheelchair race was won by John Hinkinbottom, who finished in an outstanding 57 minutes and 24 seconds.
The Brighton Half Marathon continues to be a highlight in the city’s sporting calendar, drawing elite athletes, charity runners, and enthusiastic supporters alike. With an electrifying atmosphere and strong community spirit, the event once again proved to be a huge success.
