Southend Half Marathon returns for Summer 2023

December 16, 2022

Southend’s premier running event - which raises thousands of pounds for local hospice care - is set to return to the seafront next summer.

Registration is now open for the Southend Half Marathon taking place on Sunday 11th June 2023.

The course is fast, flat and traffic free making it ideal for first-time half marathon runners as well as a favourite for seasoned runners looking to achieve a personal best. Once runners have completed their 13.1 miles, they will receive a special commemorative medal.

Every person who registers will be supporting Havens Hospices which includes Fair Havens and Little Havens. The local charity, which must raise more than £85,000 a week, cares for children, young people and adults living with complex or incurable conditions from across Essex.

This free, specialist care is there for families as long as it’s needed, within the home and at the charity’s two hospices, but can only continue thanks to people’s kind donations and sponsorship, such as those raised through events like the Southend Half Marathon.

Last year’s event raised more than £100,000 and the charity hopes even more funds can be raised next year at its flagship event.

Jane Hopkins, organiser of the event at Havens Hospices said: “Last year’s event was the first since the pandemic and it was amazing to see so many runners back at the event which means so much to the charity.

“The event usually attracts thousands of runners locally, from across the country and the world. There’s no better way to start the new year by grabbing your running shoes and getting active in preparation for the Southend Half Marathon.

“Whether you’re running for fun, to remember a loved one or to achieve a personal best, every mile will be making such a difference to all the families we care for, ‘Making every day count’.”

Advance online registration costs £30 for affiliated club runners and wheelchair athletes, and non-affiliated runners £32. For more information and to sign up visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/southendhalf