Reading can be very proud of the race they put on, with a huge charity involvement and 15,000 runners taking to the street, this is one of the best half marathons in the country. The area is not necessarily the most beautiful in the UK but it is very interesting and finishing in the Madejski football stadium is perfect.
Running for charity in the Reading half marathon is fantastic; the atmosphere at the start of the race is very much designed to cater for charity and fun runners. There are huge numbers of supporters in Green Park, where the race begins, and the sea of charity vests that you encounter is truly magnificent. As you set off with a 15,000 strong army of runners, you feel very confident that the race is going to be good as the start is so well organised. When under way, you take a number of interesting roads and pass the Reading University, the town centre and the Oracle Complex which all have good sized crowds to cheer you on and keep you motivated. When you reach the half way point at Forbury Gardens, there is a little lag in the support and there are a few sections in the back half of the race that are a little dull compared to the first half of the race. The good thing is that time seems to fly by and, before you know it, you can see the Madejski Stadium and you can't help getting excited about the finish. There is a loop now through Green Park which you are simply willing to end but cheers of support from charities and locals really keep you going. The last stretch into the Madejski Stadium is a majestical sprint finish. (Excuse the pun) Entering Reading's football ground to huge charity and spectator support and at times deafening applause. It is a moment you will not forget!
The Reading half marathon is geared up for charity fundraising so make sure you help add to the incredible fundraising total that they boast every year. Aim for £750 as a minimum and regale your friends with tales of the finish in the Reading football ground to help reach your target. Check out the run for charity fundraising A to Z for some great ideas to help you reach your target.
The support on the day is excellent. The organisers have helped provide bands, support areas and of course the stadium finish, which is perfect to allow charities, friends and families to get right near the action.
Reading is relatively flat but does have a few hills for you to conquer. Train for a half marathon and build in the odd bit of hill training.
On the day, the race is fantastic, everything runs like clockwork and is in keeping with a race of this size. The communication before the race is not very good though and race packs do not always arrive. The goody bags and medals are very good.
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
