Excitement is building amongst the running community as one of Wales’ oldest marathon events returns this Sunday, 17th March 2024.
The 2Wish Great Welsh Marathon and Half Marathon will be hosted at the award-winning Pembrey Country Park, a location renown for its stunning woodlands (all 500 acres of it!) and gorgeous golden sands. Not only is it Wales’ top visitor atttactions, the race itself was nominated by Runner’s World as being one of the MUST-do marathon’s to run in 2024!
Tash Smith, Race Director, said.
“It’s an exciting time for us as a team heading into marathon season where runners are looking to test themselves ahead of London Marathon that takes place next month. Conditions for Sunday are looking great, so we hope that we will see a big turn out for the event, along with some incredible finishing times and personal bests!”
To help runners and spectators find out everything they need to know ahead of race day, we’ve put together a complete low down below.
When & Where?
The event will take place on Sunday 17th March 2024. Both the Marathon and Half Marathon will start and finish at Pembrey Country Park (SA16 0EJ), which is ideally located, with great facilities and plenty of parking close to the start! The race will be led by official vehicle partners at Gravells setting the half marathon runners on their way at 9 am with the half marathon runners following suit at 9.30am.
How can I sign up?
Entry has closed for the 2024 events, however Early Bird registeration will open on Friday 15th 2024.
Running for charity
Many runners will be raising money for charity and good causes as they compete on race day. For those who haven’t yet chosen their charity, it’s not too late! Runners can still donate or raise funds for headline charity at 2wish or Shelter Cymru.
Headline sponsors and the team at 2Wish are proud to be taking to the route again this year by running and supporting particpants at their designated cheering zone, so if you see them, or Gorgeous George make sure you give a wave or a high five!
Need to know!
Race facilities will be open from 7.00 am, where runners will find everything, they need, including toilets, catering facilities, charities and massage tent. Toilets, Brecon Carreg water stops and energy stations will also be located at points on the route, runners needn’t worry about being caught short.
Parking
Event parking is situated at Pembrey Country Park, where there is only a short walk to start line so there will be no official bag drop. Car sharing is encouraged, so if you know others running why not share a lift? The parking is managed by Carmarthenshire County Council and can be booked in advance.
What to expect
The course will challenge runners to be their best on one of the first marathon events of season. Runners will enjoy a route that showcase’s some of the best views of West Wales on a course that is suitable for all abilities.
Where to spectate
Hundreds of well-wishers and spectators will be cheering on the runners at the start and finish area in Pembrey Country Park but there’s a lot of ground to cover when running this race! So, why not head to North Dock where you can cheer on the runners and enjoy refreshments from St Elli’s Bay.
