The race starts and finishes in Great Pulteney Street which is a wide Georgian Boulevard that allows for the 15,000 strong field to start the race without too much stopping and starting. The charity support on the race is incredible, whoever has been instrumental in getting the charities involved has done a very good job. Banners line the streets and huge colourful groups of charity supporters can be seen all around. The first mile of the race is a gentle downhill to Churchill Bridge and is alive with shouts from spectators and the pounding of 15,000 pairs of feet on the road. There is a section through Queens Square where the race organisers have put in a very nice viewing area and it is here you may get to see or hear your first shouts of encouragement from your friends and family. As you continue on along the course, you will realise that the city has turned into one large street party. With students sat outside their houses, bands playing and charities cheering, it is almost a shock when you hit the quiet section on lower Bristol Road. Having said that it is a good chance to catch your breath and focus on the remainder of the job ahead. The final part of the race is fantastic with an amazing finish back along Pulteney Street which is right up there with the other big races of this size. It is an emotional sight at the end with a huge number of charity runners realising their achievements with a joyful cheer or remembering the cause they have supported by shedding a heartfelt tear.
This is very much a charity race so aim high with your fundraising target, £750 is very achievable. There is the opportunity to pick up a guaranteed charity entry after regular entries have shut, so bear this in mind if you miss the entry deadline. Check out the run for charity fundraising A to Z for some great ideas to help you reach your target.
The people of Bath really get involved in this race and being a 2 lap course ensures that every street along the race is packed with supporters. Charity support is rife, you will see fancy dress runner being supported by huge charity support groups. This is exactly what these big city races are all about.
Bath is a fast flat half marathon and if you are interested in a PB this is definitely a race that could help you achieve it. A half marathon training plan is all you will need for this race especially if your aim is to simply complete the course.
The team that put on the Bath half marathon is fantastic, still very much a family organised race. All the information provided is fantastic, charities are well represented and the race runs incredibly smoothly. The goody bag and medal are very good and are in keeping with the quality of the race.
4 out of 5 stars
To choose a charity to support in this event click here or if you already have a charity in mind click here
