Photos as thousands take part in Ipswich Half Marathon

The Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon was held today, starting at 9.30am from Portman Road stadium.

The 13.1-mile route took runners through some of the town’s most recognisable locations, including Holywells Park, the Ipswich Waterfront, and along the River Orwell, before finishing back at the stadium.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, operations director at Run For All, said: "It was fantastic to see so many people come together for the Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon and to witness the incredible determination shown by every participant who crossed the finish line today.

"Whether runners were aiming for a personal best, fundraising for an important cause or simply taking on a new challenge, they should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.

"We'd also like to say a huge thank you to our volunteers, spectators, partners and sponsors, including Larking Gowen, whose support helps make events like this possible."

Runners completed a 13.1 mile route through the town (Image: Run for All)

The event raised funds for both national and local charities, including Autism Anglia, Ending Life’s Taboos, Ipswich Town Foundation, the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Lighthouse, Ormiston Families, St Elizabeth Hospice, RSPCA Suffolk, and Mind Suffolk.

Runners of all ages and abilities took part, with supporters lining the streets to cheer them on.

The men’s race was won by Cole Gibbens in a time of 1:08:13.

He was followed by Brandon Barber in second place at 1:09:30, and Sam Boreham in third at 1:10:30.

In the women’s race, Daisy Glover claimed victory, crossing the finish line in 1:13:37.

Lucy Daldry finished second in 1:21:27, with Elle Potter taking third place in 1:22:56.

Becky Ames from title sponsor Larking Gowen said: "We are thrilled to be supporting the half marathon again this year.

"It’s such an important and exciting community event, and a wonderful showcase for our town.

"It’s always a real thrill to be there on the day, cheering everyone on, and it’s fantastic to see so much money raised for so many valuable local causes."

A "tremendous atmosphere" greeted runners at the finish line, where they collected their medals and celebrated alongside family, friends, and fellow participants.

Organisers said support from the community, including volunteers and entertainment acts, helped make the event a memorable day for everyone involved.

Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times reporter Dominic Bareham said there was a really good atmosphere as he lined up for the event.

Gallery

The start line of the marathon (Image: Dominic Bareham)

Supporters lined the streets (Image: Run For All)

The men's race was won in a time of just over an hour (Image: Run For All)

Runners of all ages and abilities took part (Image: Run For All)

The event raised money for local and national charities (Image: Run For All)

Large crowds gathered to cheer on the runners (Image: Run For All)

Ipswich Half Marathon (Image: Run For All)

The finish line (Image: Dominic Bareham)