This is a really well thought out race with a stadium start and finish, you really get to feel like a professional runner on this one. Sheffield may once have not been considered a place of beauty but if the sun is shining and you make the decision to do this run for charity you will not be disappointed.
About the race
The organisers have a little gem here with the start being in a stadium as you will feel like a true professional as you make your way out on your 13.1 mile run. It can get a little bit tight as you leave the stadium due to the sheer volume of people, but hey, how many times a week are you starting your morning run in a fantastic stadium with huge numbers of people cheering you on? It is great to then run through the industrial area of Sheffield, as you are taken back in time to the days Sheffield was one or Britain's greatest industrial cities. If you have a good imagination this will make up for the lack of support through this part of the run as it is almost non existent. Never fear as you will then hit the town centre and the Sheffield United football ground where you will be greeted by huge numbers of smiling, cheering supporters. As you finish you are taken back into the stadium where you expect a lap of honour, unfortunately this is not to be, it is more like the 100 meters of honour, but I guess you can’t have it all!
Fundraising
Running a half marathon for charity should always make fundraising relatively easy but the Sheffield half is not very well known at this point. Make sure you get your closest friends to sponsor you with high amounts early on and hopefully everyone else will follow. Look to fundraise about £700 with this one. Check out the run for charity fundraising A to Z for some great ideas to help you reach your target.
Support on race day
The start and finish are fantastic fun for the charity runner in regards to spectators but there are sections of the course where you will feel very alone. The charity support is not very noticeable which is a shame for such a good race.
Training
Straight half marathon training for everyone here but if you can practice a quick pace to start to get you clear of the stadium it will help if you are after a PB.
Quality of race organisers
The organisation of the race is very good. The marshals are all keen and know what they are doing. One thing to note, for some reason they are still using cups of water instead of bottles. Easy online entry and all of the information on the website is insightful and has been put together really well. Running for charity is definitely not the main priority here but you will be well looked after. All information such as welcome emails, race packs etc will be received when they’re supposed to be.
Run for charity event rating – 3 ½ out of 5 Stars
