The Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend returns for its 12th year over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Judith Scott from AHS Wellbeing explains how this popular annual sporting race has grown into a real community event.
This three-day Marathon extravaganza will once again bring communities of Mid Sussex together to run through the streets, trails and pathways in and around the towns of East Grinstead, Haywards Heath and Burgess Hill. Participants can challenge themselves to complete an individual town race or complete the full marathon distance of 26.2 miles over the three days.
Families, younger runners and those new to running are encouraged to participate, with Fun Runs and Mile races taking place each day over the weekend from Saturday 29th April to Monday 1st May. For anyone unable to attend the in-person event the Virtual Race is an alternative option, and can be undertaken between Saturday 16th April to Monday 1st May. Gold medal winning European Athletics Champion, Paralympian Fabienne Andre is an advocate of The Mid Sussex Marathon Virtual event, saying “I'm a big fan of the virtual race because people can take part however suits them – whether that’s walking, in a wheelchair, or pushing a buggy!”.
Event Director, Simon Adby, from AHS Wellbeing said “We are delighted to be once again organising The Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend and encourage everyone to be part of the action! Whether in a race, as a volunteer Marshal or to cheer runners on along the route.’’
Councillor Ruth De Mierre, Mid Sussex District Council Cabinet Member for Leisure and Parking said “The Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend is such a wonderful event that really brings the whole community together. Running provides such a tremendous boost to our health, and the great thing about the Marathon Weekend is there are races to suit people of all abilities. There is always a great atmosphere on the day, as friends and family line the streets, and I cannot wait to be there. I’m looking forward to meeting not only our amazing athletes but the youngsters and weekend runners as I cheer them all across the finishing line.”
2023 Event details:
DAY 1: SATURDAY 29TH APRIL 2023
East Grinstead Rugby Club, Saint Hill Road.
09.30am Mid Sussex Fun Run
10.00am Mid Sussex Mile
10.30am 10 Mile Race
DAY 2: SUNDAY 30th APRIL 2023
Victoria Park, South Road, Haywards Heath.
09.30am Mid Sussex Fun Run
10.00am Mid Sussex Mile
10.30am 10 Mile Race
DAY 3: MONDAY 1ST MAY 2023
The Burgess Hill Academy, (Playing Field), Station Road.
09.30am Mid Sussex Fun Run
10.00am Mid Sussex Mile
10.30am 10K Race
Those who take part in all three races over the weekend will receive a Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend technical t-shirt and a much coveted bespoke 3-part medal. Entries for all races can be made on the day.
The Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend takes place due to the generous support of partners and sponsors. The charity partner for 2023 Mid Sussex Marathon Weekend is Kangaroos, a local charity that provides social clubs and activities for children and adults with learning disabilities www.kangaroos.org.uk.
To find out more about the Marathon Weekend, or to join this year’s team of volunteer Marshals visit the website: www.midsussexmarathon.co.uk.