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January 13, 2022 at 3:04 pm
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2022  |  Charity news
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Make your miles matter by joining Team Macmillan

A Macmillan runner

At Macmillan, we give people with cancer everything we’ve got. If you’re diagnosed, your worries are our worries. We will move mountains to help you live life as fully as you can. And we don’t stop there. We’re going all out to find ever better ways to help people with cancer, helping to bring forward the day when everyone gets life-transforming support from day one.

If you too are passionate about supporting people with cancer, we will make every penny you raise count for something in someone’s life. We will cheer you on until we’re hoarse and shout your achievements from the rooftops. Because you’re doing something amazing; helping people with cancer live life as fully as they can. And they need everything you can give, because life with cancer has never been so tough.

Sound interested? Sign up now for a charity place >>

As soon as you’re registered, you’ll be fully supported from day one by our dedicated events team. We’ll send you a digital welcome pack and be in touch regularly to keep you updated with updates about the event and ways to fundraise for Macmillan.

In addition you’ll also receive:

  • A free Macmillan technical running top plus iron-on letters to customise your kit
  • A fundraising pack bursting with fundraising tips and tricks
  • Access to our online training materials
  • Invites to exclusive online events to support you with all elements of your training and fundraising
  • Regular e-newsletters to keep you up to date with Macmillan’s news and activities
  • The loudest and most supportive cheer points on the course!

Most importantly we’ll provide you with a reason to keep going because you’ll know that you’re helping improve the lives of people living with cancer. Donations make up 98% of our annual income so we simply couldn’t do what we do without you.

How does my support make a difference?

We’ll hold your hand through treatment. Help you pay the fares to hospital and fight for fair treatment for you. If you can’t work, we’ll help you with the bills, if you can’t sleep, we’ll find someone you can talk to, if you need a voice we will speak out for you.

It’s never not our problem. If there’s a way to help we will find it and we will see it through. And we never let anything stand still. We are a force for change, pioneering new and ever better ways to support people with cancer.

We’re on a mission to bring forward the day when everyone with cancer gets life-transforming standards of care from diagnosis on.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today, put on that green t-shirt and support people living with cancer.

Got your own place already?

You can still run for Macmillan. Let us know that you would like to join Team Macmillan by completing this form and we’ll organise a fundraising pack for you. You’ll still receive the same level of support as a charity place runner, all we ask in return is for you to raise as much as you can for Macmillan.

Volunteering

We need an army of cheerers to make this event special. If running is not your thing or you have any family and friends who’d like to come and support you on the day, we’d love them to join our volunteer team! The cheer point locations will be based at a few locations throughout the race’s course, but they will be easily accessible from the Brighton city centre.

Visit our volunteer website to find out more and to register as a volunteer.

If you have any questions about running or volunteering for Macmillan, you can email us at running@macmillan.org.uk or call on 0300 1000 200.

Article by
December 23, 2021 at 2:07 pm
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2022  |  Race news

General entry closing 31st December

 

A heads up that if you’re keen to run in the 2022 race on Sunday 27th February, general entry places will be closing on New Year’s Eve, 31st December. You can enter on our registration page here.

After this date, you’ll still be able to enter via a charity place with one of our charity partners. General entries will not reopen. See all of our wonderful charity partners on our charity page.

Article by
October 26, 2021 at 5:20 pm
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2022
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Early bird pricing for 2022 ends soon

Early bird ending

Our early bird pricing for the Brighton Half Marathon 2022 will be ending very soon – get your spot on the start line for our 2022 event on Sunday 27th February next year.

Back to our usual springtime slot, the race is perfectly placed if you’re gearing up for a spring marathon – or just to clear the cobwebs after Christmas!

You can enter the 2022 event on our registration site.

 

 

 

 

Article by
September 29, 2021 at 10:33 am
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021

Travel on race day

 

There are planned engineering works on some train lines into Brighton on the 2021 race weekend. If you are planning to travel to the event by train, please do check your travel arrangements before the day.

The engineering works will affect some train lines on both the Saturday and Sunday (the 9th and 10th October 2021), and bus replacement services will be able to get you to Brighton. Please do check services before you travel to help you have an enjoyable race day – this link to planned works may be useful.

The following is a provisional timetable for rail replacement services that we have been provided with – fast bus services are on the left-hand side of the table. Please do check services before the day as we don’t receive up-to-minute information from the train networks.

Provisional rail replacement timetable

 

 

Article by
September 16, 2021 at 10:57 am
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021

How cryotherapy can help you recover

Heard of cryotherapy? Hove’s new wellness and recovery clinic CryoBright explains more about the treatment and how it can aid recovery.

Whether you want to gain muscle, run faster, perform better or simply get through your first half marathon, there are two things you need to do: train and then recover from that training.

For some, particularly new runners, you will be pushing your body in ways it has never been pushed before. The training plan for any type of event you are not used to doing can be intense, both physically and mentally.

Often overlooked but, as any professional athlete, trainer, coach, physio or sports therapist will tell you, rest and recovery are just as important as the exercise itself. Why?

  • Recovery not only allows for improved performance, but more importantly, it permits time for your body to heal itself in preparation for the next training session and decreases the risk of injury, over training and burn out.
  • Recovery is essential for muscle growth by repairing tissue and replenishing glycogen (energy stores).
  • Recovery promotes better performance, endurance, agility and reaction time.
  • Recovery reduces muscle fatigue and soreness.

Rapid technological developments over recent years have led to significant improvements in sports injury prevention and athletic recovery methods, both in terms of efficiency and speed of healing.

At CryoBright, a new wellness and recovery clinic in Hove, we specialise in treatments specifically designed to support recovery from injury, as well as, speed up your recovery times between training sessions.

We utilise technology that was previously only accessible to professional athletes and sports clubs, to help you recover faster and boost your performance.

Treatments that can support your recovery:

Cryotherapy

For years, Cryotherapy has been helping athletes push themselves to achieve optimum performance and maintain a competitive edge. Whether you’re a season athlete targeting your next PB or someone that’s new to running, Cryotherapy can help you train longer and harder, as well as dramatically reduce your recovery time.

Whole body cryotherapy

Whole Body Cryotherapy involves exposing your entire body to extremely cold temperatures (-85 degrees C) for 3-4 minutes in our state-of-the-art Cryotherapy chamber. During this time, your skin temperature rapidly cools and your body’s natural ‘fight or flight’ response is initiated.  This process stimulates a number of powerful physiological reactions that can help your body repair, recover and reinvigorate as well as elevate your mood and boost your energy levels.

Localised cryotherapy

Localised Cryotherapy is a fast, effective, targeted cold therapy designed to aid pain relief, reduce inflammation and swelling and support recovery from injuries, as well as, ease discomfort from niggly aches, pains and strains. We use a revolutionary localised cryotherapy device and with its unique treatment applicators, almost any part of the body can be treated.

Localised cryotherapy can help with common runner injuries such as: Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, ankle sprain, Shin splints, Runners knee, Stress fracture recovery, as well as, hamstring and back problems.

Compression therapy

This relaxing therapy is perfect for anyone seeking faster recovery after an intense week of training or a long run as well as those struggling with muscle fatigue, swelling and soreness.  Compression Therapy is administered by a professional, medical grade, leg compression system called RecoveryPump®.  A 20-minute session increases blood circulation, clears metabolic waste build-up and restores the natural delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscle. It helps flush out aches, pain and soreness by massaging your legs and mobilising fluid, shortening the time needed for recovery.

Assised stretch therapy

This is a pain-free therapy that can form part of your overall training plan to improve mobility and performance, reduce the risk of injury and help you recover more quickly between training sessions. Assisted stretch is a technique where a trained therapist helps you to stretch, through gentle pulls of the arms, legs, spine and neck through varying planes of movement. This helps to realign your body, increase mobility and flexibility, reduce stress and relieve achy joints.

Therapeutic massage

Whether you run for fun, competition or stress relief, massage therapy can significantly improve your running potential:

  • Reduced muscle pain and fatigue – massage helps athletes and runners maintain overall muscle health by identifying areas of tension, relieving trigger points and addressing them before an injury.
  • Increases circulation and blood flow.
  • Increased tissue flexibility and muscle relaxation for increased range of motion.
  • Relaxation and reset.

Exclusive discount for Brighton Half Marathon 2021 participants:

Cryobright is are offering all Brighton Half Marathon Participants a 25% discount on your first booking:

  • Offer valid between 1st Sept – Oct 31st
  • Discount can only be used once per customer.
  • Discount is valid on single session treatments only – does not apply to packs/treatment courses or memberships.

To redeem your discount simply bring proof of race registration or your finisher medal with you to your first appointment.

If you’re interested to find out more about Cryobright’s services and how they can help, visit www.cryobright.co.uk, call 01273 777 474 or follow on social @cryobright

Clinic location: 197-199 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 4QG    

 

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June 6, 2021 at 2:30 pm
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Taper tactics

Runner on seafront

Mike Bannister, founder of our training partner RunBrighton, explains the taper and why it’s important at the end of a half-marathon training programme.

Tapering your training is typically done over the couple of weeks preceding race day.

It refers to the gradual reduction of your overall weekly mileage (or time on feet), rather than reduction in speed.

Throughout the weeks or months prior to race day, you will hopefully have gradually progressed, in terms of your weekly mileage (or time on feet), and will have been training fairly consistently. With your total volume of training peaking with about a fortnight to go, you should have got used to such a level of training, to the extent that your body is expecting to continue to train at that level.

It is when you have got used to this training that bringing it down will enable aches, pains and tightness to go away. And the additional rest that you factor in will allow your body to properly recover and store the invaluable energy required for optimum race performance.

As long as you have trained properly and consistently, winding down your training on approach to race day won’t cause you to lose any of the endurance that you have developed.

Continue with speedwork

As regards your midweek speed work, this can continue through to race week, as stopping this too soon will reduce some of the speed in your legs. Just don’t overdo it in the last few days and unnecessarily risk injury.

By race day, having reduced your training, as well as having continued to consume a healthy and balanced diet, you should find yourself in tiptop condition on the start line, well rested, with heaps of energy, and fully ready to perform.

Article by
May 11, 2021 at 8:49 am
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021  |  Charity news

Run for SayAphasia in June

Colin LyallAphasia affects around 350,000 people in the UK, yet not many people have heard of it. It is a communication disability which occurs when the communication centres of the brain are damaged. The fact that the condition is rarely heard of, contributes to the loneliness that those with aphasia experience.

Colin, the founder of charity SayAphasia, had a stroke nearly six years ago, and none of his friends and family had heard of the condition aphasia before his stroke. This made it a struggle for everyone around him to work out how best to help him.

Our society is made aware of what a stroke is, and how to identify the signs if someone is having a stroke, but we are not as educated about what happens after.

After Colin came out of hospital and was given physiotherapy and speech therapy, there was a period of time of ‘what now?’

Colin was 50 when he had his stroke, and could no longer continue his career as a director of a commercially designed building services solution company. An extremely positive and determined man, Colin took it upon himself to set up the charity to help others just like him. The charity has given him purpose, goals to achieve and a new sense of success. He hopes that this charity will become that life line for others too.

Colin’s experience is the first thing that drives the charity – to support people who have just been diagnosed with aphasia, to stop them feeling lonely, confused, and helpless; especially after the nurses and therapists have done their part. As soon as patients leave the hospital, the charity want them to be informed straight away about the support that SayAphasia can offer them, to avoid prolonged feelings of confusion and loneliness.

The second thing that drives the charity is to offer the best service, is to provide a continuous, supportive place for people with aphasia to socialise, make friends, and practise their communication skills with like-minded people.

SayAphasia runners
Runners wanted for June!

The charity is looking for runners to take part in the 2021 event on Sunday 27th June. Could that be you, or someone you know? Find out more and contact the SayAphasia team.

Article by
May 10, 2021 at 5:07 pm
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Volunteer stories: Lisa Smith-Wallace

Lisa Smith-Wallace has volunteered at the Brighton Half for a number of years. Here she tells us about her experience helping out at the race.

I got involved in volunteering for Brighton Half Marathon in 2014 when I joined the committee at my running club. My first ‘job’ was to recruit 20 marshals from the club and I decided to join the team. Myself and the club chair came to The Sussex Beacon office to meet David, Martin and others to find out what our role would be on the day so we could relay that back to our willing club volunteers. Apart from the years that I have run the event I have volunteered every year.

On race day, we meet at our allocated zone and are road marshals for the day. We are briefed, given our hi-vis and security lanyards and then each of us is allocated a road closure to manage. The barriers are already set up so we are there to prevent traffic from getting access on to the course, to answer questions from nervous runners at the start and also questions from the public. At the end of the shift, we wait until we are given permission from security that the roads can be reopened.

Highlights

The best highlight for me at such a high-profile local race is that as a road marshal, we are in a premium position to see friends, family members, fellow club members and others from the local running community as they race past. The BHWRC club volunteers come armed with whistles and cowbells and we look out for our jade and black club vests with pride to give our members a massive cheer to support them on their way along the route.

Tips for would-be volunteers

Tips and advice that I would give relates to the usual February race date. Wear lots of layers and bring more layers with you. It is an early start and the road closures are in place an hour before the race starts so it can be really cold.

Bring a flask and snacks too! We are provided with a packed lunch but staying warm takes up a lot of energy. Also, even in February you should consider wearing sun cream as some of us have been sun burnt in the past and not been aware until later in the day. Have fun and enjoy!

Keep your spare layers in a comfortable back pack that you can wear under your hi-vis, unfortunately there are some opportunists about – sad advice but it is something we tell our volunteers each year.

Lisa Smith-Wallace

Volunteer at the 2022 event!

Fancy volunteering with us on race day 2022? Sign up on our volunteering registration form and we’ll be in touch with more information.

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May 3, 2021 at 11:06 am
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2022 entry now open!

2022 entry now open

Calendars at the ready: entry to our 2022 event opens today! The date for your calendar next year is Sunday 27th February. After a turbulent 2020/21, why not kick-start your running year with the Brighton Half.

Back in its regular slot at the end of February, the race is perfectly placed if you’re training for a spring marathon. If you’ve caught the running bug over lockdown, it also makes a great first half marathon, with a flat, fast course and fantastic crowd support. 

Charity places in 2021

If you can’t wait until next year, there are still charity places available for our 2021 on Sunday 27th June. The event was postponed from our usual month of February so we’re excited to be able to hold a unique midsummer half. See all our charity partners here and contact them directly about running in June.

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March 29, 2021 at 1:42 pm
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All about the Long Slow Run (LSR)

Mike Bannister, founder of our training partner RunBrighton, explains the long slow run (LSR). Find out why this session is crucial in a half-marathon training programme.

Why is the long, slow run important for half-marathon training?

By ‘slow’, we mean slower than half-marathon race pace.

When we run, we use different energy systems. A long-distance race, such as a half marathon, mainly uses our aerobic system (as opposed to, say, sprinting over a short distance like 100m, which is predominantly anaerobic).

In fact, running a half marathon is approximately 97% aerobic. It’s therefore really important that we train our aerobic capacity, and gradually increasing the duration of the long run will help you achieve this. This is typically the Sunday run in most half-marathon training schedules.

A common error, with many runners, is to run too hard on the long, Sunday run – maybe training at half-marathon race pace for most of the run. Don’t forget, this long training run is principally about developing your aerobic capacity, gradually increasing time on feet, and building endurance. It’s not about improving your speed.

From time to time, half-marathon race pace is incorporated into the long run. But certainly not for the whole of every long run.

Sessions to improve speed are done differently, and they typically form part of your midweek training.

One of the problems with running too hard on the long, Sunday run, is that you’re unlikely to recover sufficiently to properly execute your midweek speed-training sessions. There can then become an imbalance, as regards your whole week’s training. The long run is essential for half-marathon training and, if it is done too fast, not only can it be an inefficient way to train, you also increase the risk of developing an injury.

As a rough guide, the long run should normally be done at approximately 10-15% slower than half-marathon race-day pace (circa 1 minute-per-mile slower than race pace).

As an example, if a realistic target time for your half marathon is 2 hours (an average pace of approximately 9 minutes-per-mile), the pace of your long run should be approximately 10 minutes-per-mile. A tip, to ensure your long run is done at the correct pace, is to keep it conversational. You should be capable of holding a fluid conversation throughout your training run. If you find yourself becoming breathless and you struggle to string a sentence together, you’re probably training too hard.

So, keep it easy, have a nice chat, enjoy the scenery, improve your endurance and develop your aerobic capacity!

Membership with RunBrighton

You can now sign up for membership with our training partner, RunBrighton, for their build-up to the Brighton Half Marathon. But be quick as places are limited. Membership revolves around a group run every Sunday, alongside a range of associated benefits. Find out more at RunBrighton.com.

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March 17, 2021 at 10:50 am
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021  |  Race team blog
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March 2021 event update

In light of the Government’s recent publication of the UK’s roadmap out of lockdown and with less than 4 months to go until race day (or 3.5 weeks if you prefer!), we wanted to update you on our planning around this year’s event.

The roadmap sets out steps, with timelines, for moving out of lockdown and has clear implications for the delivery of outdoor events such as ours.

The good news is of course is that the timescales identified would place our event beyond the current date by which restrictions will have ended.

Whilst we welcome the announcement, we are realistic about the implications for our planning if there is any slippage in the timescales identified by the Government, and for that reason we believe it is still sensible to continue to plan on the basis of delivering a COVID secure event, namely:

  • Halving the number of general registration places to this year’s event
  • Introducing social distancing measures at the start/finish area
  • Staggered start lines based on race pen allocation
  • Race village restricted to runner-only entry
  • Reducing or removing potential touch points at the event – including baggage, goody bags and drinks stations
  • Increased sanitation points around the event
  • Removing the Youth Races from our program

There are areas of detail that the Government will update over the coming weeks and we are in regular contact with the local authority to ensure that we are aware of any developments locally in Brighton & Hove and on a more national scale that might affect delivery of the event in June.

We will continue to keep you updated.

The Brighton Half Marathon team

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March 15, 2021 at 12:32 pm
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021  |  Charity news
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Don’t let cancer become the forgotten ‘C’ during this pandemic

When coronavirus hit, thousands of vital cancer treatments, appointments and care were postponed or cancelled. Now, during the third wave, the consequences of continued disruption to cancer services are impossible to ignore. Again, people aren’t able to get the timely support they need, and the emotional impact of the outbreak is continuing to take its toll on people already struggling.

Cancer cannot become the forgotten ‘C’ during this pandemic. We need to see national and local action to deliver on cancer recovery plans, clear the backlog and get cancer services back on track.

How you can help

Join Team Macmillan for the Brighton Half Marathon and help us reach our goal of providing everyone with support from day one.

How we’ll support you

In return we’ll support you every step of the way, and provide you with these resources free of charge:

  • A fundraising pack which will have all the help you’ll need to absolutely smash your fundraising target
  • A Macmillan technical T-shirt or running vest, plus iron on letters to customise your kit
  • Access to the Macmillan training zone to make sure you’re ready for race day
  • Invited to a private Team Macmillan Facebook group

Plus, much more!

So, what are you waiting for? Get the support you need to get to the finish line whilst raising money to help people living with cancer. Find out more information here.

Sign up now

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March 1, 2021 at 11:12 am
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Run for Alzheimer’s Society in June

Alzheimer's SocietyRun the 2021 Brighton Half Marathon for Alzheimer’s Society

By 2025, one million people will be living with the condition in the UK. But dementia won’t win. Until the day we find a cure, Alzheimer’s Society will be there for anyone affected by dementia – wherever they are, whatever they’re going through.

We know we can beat dementia, but we can’t do it alone. We need you to run for us with the support of our dedicated team. We need your miles, your energy and your determination. We need you to help put an end to dementia.

Sign up now

Reasons to run for us:

  • We know training is tough, but you’re tougher. We’ll make sure you have expert knowledge from our professional coaches at your fingertips.
  • We’ll send you an Alzheimer’s Society running top to represent the team on the day.
  • We’ll work with you to fundraise as much as you can. We’ll send you newsletters full of top tips and are always at the end of the phone to talk ideas.
  • You’ll have access to our Alzheimer’s Society Running Team Facebook group where you can chat to your fellow runners and share tips and ideas.

By running the Brighton Half Marathon for us, we can continue to deliver ground-breaking research. Alzheimer’s Society is the only UK charity funding research into prevention and a cure for dementia, whilst also caring for people affected today.

£50 could turn 13 ordinary citizens into superhero Dementia Friends! There is a stigma attached to living with dementia that is both deeply hurtful, and overwhelmingly unfair. Dementia Friends is at its core an instrument for societal change, waking people up to the truth about dementia and helping them understand the impact on people’s lives.

£300 could support one of our Research Network Volunteers for six months. These volunteers are dementia experts by experience. After training, they read every research application that comes to Alzheimer’s Society for funding to ensure that our research stays relevant, impactful and life   changing for people affected by dementia.

£500 could begin the Dementia Connect journey for 50 people with a call from one of our telephone-based Dementia Advisors. This first contact with a person living with dementia, their carer, or family member is the initial step in understanding how we can best support them.

Join the race. Beat dementia. Run the 2021 Brighton Half Marathon for Alzheimer’s Society.

Sign up now

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February 16, 2021 at 3:24 pm
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Could a personal trainer help with your half marathon training?

You’ve done it: your registration for the Brighton Half Marathon has gone through! You begin telling people that you are running the half marathon when all of a sudden, you realise you seriously need to train…Where do you start!? Whether this is a bucket list one-off, you are running for a charity or you are a seasoned pro looking to achieve a PB, who can help you train for what will inevitably be a hugely tough challenge?

The answer to this question is slightly more complex than you think and fully depends on your personal situation. As a Personal Trainer with 10 years in the industry and founder of The Fitness Movement, a local Fitness-based education provider, it may surprise you that I would not necessarily advocate hiring a Personal Trainer to help you prepare.

That is, if you are an experienced marathon runner, perhaps chasing your personal best time and looking to arrive at this year’s starting line in a more conditioned state, a Personal Trainer is probably not for you. In such circumstances, you would benefit more from specialist support – with either a Run Coach, a Strength and Conditioning Specialist or a Nutritionist. You may even want to combine all three depending on your budget and competitive standard. Try looking for a local run club, or visiting the UK Strength and Conditioning Association’s Find a Coach section on their website or searching on the Sport and Exercise Nutrition Register for a qualified Nutritionist.

Who would benefit from a Personal Trainer?

However, if you are a relative beginner to running or entering on a less competitive basis, then working with a Personal Trainer may be the best thing you could do. Aside from providing general support and structure to your training, two key areas where a Personal Trainer could excel are general overall fitness and fat loss.

At the start of your training journey, you may feel not only as though you are lacking the fitness required to run a half marathon (which let’s face it, is no mean feat), but daunted or even entirely overwhelmed at the challenge of getting to the finish line. Knowing where to begin in structuring a programme that will take you from your current state to a position of feeling fitter and, most importantly, confident in your ability to run for a sustained period of time is very important. A Personal Trainer could certainly offer you this: 12 weeks of structured programming to follow which is progressive towards your goal and the accountability to keep you on track alongside it.

Lose excess body fat

The second key focus which could aid your pending marathon success is losing any excess body fat*. Carrying excess body fat is not only bad for our health and demanding on our bodies, but essentially corresponds to carrying extra weight whilst running! Consider it this way: imagine wearing a weighted 10kg backpack for your next run – not only would your run feel much tougher, but this could place a lot more pressure on your knees. Take that backpack off again however, and you would find your run a lot easier.

*Remember we are talking about excess body fat. If you are already at a healthy body fat percentage (again, something a Personal Trainer could assist you in determining) then ignore this – and remember fat is also the primary source of fuel for long duration activity!

In conclusion, if you are relatively new to marathon running, do not know where to start, need some kind of structure to your training, want to improve fitness and/or possibly lose some body fat then a Personal Trainer would be a great option.

What to look for in a PT

You can expect to pay anywhere from £30-£50 per session for Personal Training, but make sure whoever you choose has a Level 3 Diploma in Personal Training as a minimum and is fully insured. Included in your session price should be a progressive programme tailored especially to your goals and current fitness level. Don’t feel afraid to question any trainers you approach on their experience and discuss how they would set about helping you – if you are looking to invest in a trainer, it is important to make the right choice.

Remember that having a training partner can also be a great way to keep motivated and stay accountable. This could involve training with your run buddy, or even asking a Personal Trainer if they would be willing to offer a deal for two people training together. This could be a more cost-effective way to get professional help without breaking the bank.

Finally, enjoy the process and do not forget to book in that post-race massage – you will most definitely have earnt it.

If you need any further help with anything discussed in this article, feel free to contact us at info@thefitnessmovement.co.uk and we will be more than happy to help.

The Fitness Movement are a fitness education provider based in Brighton and Hove offering Level 2 Gym Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications. Visit them at: www.thefitnessmovement.co.uk.

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January 25, 2021 at 9:41 am
All news  |  Brighton Half Marathon 2021  |  Race news  |  Race team blog
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Jan 2021 event update

Race team blog

Keeping our community safe

With six months to go until race day we wanted to update you on our planning for the 2021 Brighton Half Marathon on Sunday June 27th.

The health & safety of all our runners, volunteers, colleagues and partners will always be our number one priority in the event. The rollout of the vaccination program has been welcome news, but in line with government advice we are not treating this as a cause for complacency and will continue to plan for this year’s Brighton Half as a COVID-compliant event.

We are conscious that the guidance around staging outdoor events is constantly evolving but we want to reassure you that all planning for the event is reviewed in a multi-agency forum, which means that in addition to the key stakeholders that help us deliver the event, local agencies such as the police, fire and ambulance service, NHS and of course the local authority, all have an opportunity to review and comment on our plans.

These are currently the key aspects of our planning for this year’s event:

  • Halving the number of general registration places to this year’s event
  • Introducing social distancing measures at the start/finish area
  • Staggered start lines based on race pen allocation
  • Race village restricted to runner-only entry
  • Reducing or removing potential touch points at the event – including baggage, goody bags, and drinks stations
  • Increased sanitation points around the event
  • Removing the Youth Races from our program

We will of course keep you updated on our plans in the coming months in light of changes to government guidelines and latest Public Health England advice.

If you have any questions in the meantime, you can get in touch with us at the event inbox half.marathon@sussexbeacon.org.uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can.

Keep focused on your training and we will see you soon,

BHM Team

 

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October 22, 2020 at 1:43 pm
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2021 date postponement statement

Revised date statement

We are sorry to announce that the Brighton Half Marathon is postponed from 28thFebruary 2021 to Sunday 27th June 2021 following the recent escalation of Covid-19 cases and change in Public Health guidance.

We opened the 2021 event in July in a mood of optimism following the relaxing of three months of national lockdown. With restrictions once again tightening and likely to be in place for months longer, we need to change our plans to ensure that runners, spectators, volunteers and staff are all safe at the event.

Bill Puddicombe, Chief Executive of The Sussex Beacon, organisers of the event commented:
“We have taken this decision to protect public health. The half marathon is always a celebration of fitness, community and support for the voluntary sector. We want to ensure that 2021’s event will be the inspiring event that people have all come to expect. It will almost certainly not be possible in February.

“We understand that runners will be disappointed at the delay but of course, all bookings will be honoured for the new June event – our “Midsummer Half”.

In reaching this decision we have consulted extensively with the Local Authority and other key stakeholders as well as reviewing the latest guidelines and advice of the national sports bodies on delivering a safe and secure COVID compliant event.

Ian Taylor, Events Manager at Brighton & Hove City Council said:
“The City Council fully supports The Sussex Beacon in their decision to move the Brighton Half Marathon to later in 2021. It is a great community event, staged by an important local charity, and we believe that a date later in the year will give the opportunity for the event to take place with a good number of runners and with public support.”

Although we are all hopeful that current efforts to minimise the impact of COVID will enable some easing of restrictions next year, we will be working on plans to deliver a safe, secure and socially distanced event.

As well as focusing on the start/finish area of the event, we will also be considering the potential for staggered start times for participants.

To enable our planning to progress we also feel it is sensible at this stage to limit the number of overall participants we would normally accept, with the potential (via a ballot) to release more places at a later date if we feel it is safe to do so.

We will be emailing all 2021 participants today with their options for 2021, which you can also view here.

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September 10, 2020 at 8:39 am
Youth Race

Youth Race 2020 virtual event FAQs

Youth Race 2020 virtual event

FAQ’s for our Youth Race 2020 virtual event

Following the postponement of our Youth Races back in February, we’d like to say a huge thank you to all our entrants for their understanding – and reveal some exciting news for the 2020 event.

Over the past few months we have been working closely with Brighton & Hove City Council to attempt to find a suitable new date for the race but unfortunately it has proven impossible due to the impact of Covid-19 affecting events across the city. We’d love every entrant to be able to earn their finisher’s medal so we have instead planned a Virtual Youth Race, where every runner can run a mile in their own time. It’s super easy to take part in – here are some FAQs about the event.

What is a Virtual Race?
A virtual race means that you can complete the race distance within your own time (between specified dates) and at a location of your choice. Please adhere to current, local advice for social distancing when completing your race.

I no longer have / did not receive my 2020 race number or T-shirt – what should I do?
We’d love for runners to wear the T shirt and race number they received in their race pack sent out back in February. Unfortunately, we do not have any spare race T-shirts in stock, but if you no longer have your race kit, you can wear your own clothing.

Do I have to complete the 1-mile run by a certain date?
We are asking participants to complete their 1-mile race by Sunday 18th October 2020. All photos must be submitted by this date.

Where can I complete the 1-mile race – do I need to use the event course?
You can complete your 1-mile challenge at any location of your choice. Our suggested locations include the seafront, Preston Park, Hove Park, East Brighton Park and Stanmer Park.

How do I receive my medal?
Once you have submitted your photo, you can collect your finisher’s medal from our Sussex Beacon charity shop in James Street, Brighton. The team there will have a list of all our finishers.

Will the results be published?
As the virtual race won’t be officially timed, we will be unable to issue prizes or awards other than finisher’s medals for all participants.

How do I submit my results for the virtual race?
Email your finisher photo to half.marathon@sussexbeacon.org.uk. We accept any kind of evidence – e.g. a running app screen shot, photo of your watch, or a photo of you finishing.

How will my photos be used?
When you upload photos to social media and tag #brightonhalfmarathon, you are consenting to us sharing the photos. If you are not on social media but would be happy for us to share the photo on our social media channels, please add a note of consent in your email to state you are happy for us to share your photo on social media.

I raised funds for Rockinghorse, do I need to do anything?
Please contact Rockinghorse directly to let them know that you are taking part in the virtual race as they would love to hear about your challenge and they can support you if you wish to raise more money in readiness for your virtual challenge!

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February 24, 2020 at 9:40 am
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A big thank you to everyone who took part in race day 2020

Women's Race winner

Nearly 8,000 runners turned out for our special 30th anniversary edition of the Brighton Half yesterday. Whether you were running, volunteering or spectating, we’d like to say a huge thank you every single one of you for braving the elements and taking part to make race day 2020 such an extra special day.

The race klaxon was sounded at 9:30am by the original 1990 race winner, David Knight, and Brighton’s favourite resident, Norman Cook, also waved the runners off on their journey around the city’s sights.

The race field featured hundreds of runners new to the half marathon distance, plus experienced half marathoners and runners training for a full Spring marathon. Thousands of spectators lined the route to cheer on the runners and crowds were entertained with music from The Sundaes and Alex Banks playing live at The Grand Brighton, headline sponsor of the race.

In the men’s race Brighton resident Kevin Moore took first place in an amazing time of 69 minutes and 5 seconds; second place went to Neil Boniface, who came home in 69 minutes and 17 seconds; third place went to four times race winner Paul Martelletti in 69 minutes and 40 seconds.

The women’s race was won by Phillipa Williams, who absolutely stormed home in an incredible 77 minutes and 55 seconds, followed by Heather Noone in 79 minutes and 53 seconds. Third place went to Maisie Trafford in 81 minutes and 08 seconds.

The Sussex Beacon Wheelchair Race also returned, with three entrants from the Coventry Godiva Harriers. First place went to Gary Cooper, who finished in 80 minutes and 49 seconds; Rob Smith came second in 92 minutes and 25 seconds. The female winner was local girl, Ellie Page who came home in 96 minutes and 39 seconds.

Alongside the elite field, thousands of charity runners took to the streets of the city, raising around one million pounds for over 35 charities, including local charities The Sussex Beacon and Chestnut Tree House, and national charities including Alzheimer’s Society and Macmillan.

Race director Martin Harrigan commented:
“What a race we had today! We are deeply honoured that nearly 8,000 runners braved the high winds and stormy conditions to run The Grand Brighton Half Marathon this morning. So many inspiring people, running for fantastic causes. Thank you to all families, spectators and volunteers who came out today to make The Grand Brighton Half Marathon such an incredible event! We couldn’t be more grateful to you all.

“I would also like to say a huge thank you to our headline sponsor, The Grand Brighton hotel and all of the other sponsors and charities who support this fantastic event.”

Andrew Mosley, general manager at main sponsor The Grand Brighton said:
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have been headline sponsors of The Grand Brighton Half Marathon for our third year. It’s an incredible sight to see so many runners come from far and wide for such a fantastic event supporting great causes. Your contributions to The Sussex Beacon and all of the other race partners is immensely valued, particularly on this year’s 30th anniversary celebration. The race village had an amazing atmosphere once again, and it was a real privilege to greet runners at the finish line. Well done to everyone who took part in this year’s race!”

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February 20, 2020 at 6:32 pm
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Common questions ahead of race day

Help! My race number hasn’t arrived. What do I do?

You can pick up a spare race number from the Help Desk in Race Village. This is open from 2-4pm on Saturday, and from 7:30am on race morning. See our race map for the location of the Help Desk.

Can I move start pen?

You can move back a pen (into a slower predicated time), but please don’t move forward. If you think you will run faster than your predicted time we recommend you move to the front of your current start pen.

Is there an app?

There is no app for the race this year.

Can I discard clothing at the start of the race?

Yes, all discarded clothing will be collected at the start of the race, so you are welcome to bring a warm layer and leave it to the side of you pen as you start the race. Please be careful if you discard any clothing to avoid it becoming a trip hazard for other runners. All discarded clothing will be given to charity.

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Weather update and race day

Weather

Update: Saturday 11:00am: The wind is looking to peak at 6am tomorrow then will gradually drop through the morning. With rain also a possibility, we recommend bringing along a warm layer for the start pens. All discarded clothing will be collected at the start of the race and given to charity. Please be careful if you do discard any clothing to avoid it becoming a trip hazard for other runners.

We will have a team of tail walkers for the final participants this year so please don’t worry about being slow!

********

Update: Friday 5:00pm: We have had a few questions this afternoon about the weather on race day. We’ve been in close contact with forecasters from the Met Office throughout the week. The latest reports say that it will be windy, with strong gusts and possible rain, so we advise you to bring layers on Sunday – a windproof/waterproof jacket is ideal, plus think about bringing a hat, gloves and a wind buff, if you have them. Pack some warm clothing for when you finish too.

Please remember that if you plan to use our baggage service, please bring a waterproof, secure bag.

See you Sunday!

*******

Following on from the severe weather over the past few weeks, we have been advised by the Met Office that strong winds are forecast to continue in the build up to the race and on race day. While this won’t affect the race taking place on Sunday, it means that we are unable to build some of the infrastructure that you would normally see around the event. This is to keep all of our runners and spectators safe.

Our baggage service will still operate as normal but please note this area will not be under cover. If you plan to leave any belongings with us, please bring a waterproof, secure bag and be sure to attach the baggage label with your race number on to your bag. This label is attached to your race number. The start gantry will also be affected by the winds, and again, we are unable to build this structure. The start/finish line will however be clearly marked and you’ll run over a timing mat as you go over the line.

Please wear appropriate clothing for the weather. We advise bringing layers – and a windproof jacket if you have one!

See you on race day!
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at 5:42 pm
Youth Race
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Youth Race postponed on Sunday

Due to the weather conditions this week, we are unfortunately unable to build the infrastructure for the Youth Race to go ahead successfully on Sunday and have taken the decision to postpone our junior races.

We plan to reschedule the Youth Race for later in the year and will let you know in due course about this. Please keep hold of your T-shirts and race numbers so you can use them again.

The Sussex Beacon apologises for any inconvenience this may have caused you and we thank you for your continued support. 

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February 11, 2020 at 4:19 pm
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Penny Farthing parade to lead out runners on race day

Penny Farthings outside the i360

To celebrate our big birthday we’ll have a fantastic Penny Farthing parade leading runners out on race day.

The Penny Farthing Club is led by club founder Neil Laughton. Neil has ridden his Penny Farthing bicycle from Lands End to John O’Groats, is captain of the England Penny Farthing polo team and holds three Guinness World Records for riding a Penny Farthing without using his hands! If you fancy learning to ride one of these Victorian bicycles, you can find out more at Penny Farthing Bike Tour Brighton or contact them at the Penny Farthing Club.

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January 5, 2020 at 8:00 pm
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Charity of the Week: Alzheimer’s Society

Join Alzheimer's Society

Dementia devastates lives. It strips away memories, relationships and connections to the world. For someone with the condition, as well as their family and friends, dementia means the plans you made, and the future you thought you had, will not be so.

By 2025, over a million people will be living with the condition. Of the world’s top ten killer diseases, it’s the only one we can’t cure, prevent or even slow down. Too many people face dementia alone, finding it difficult to know who to turn to or where to go for information and support.

At Alzheimer’s Society, we know it doesn’t have to be like this. We are investing more money than ever in dementia research and until the day we find a cure, we will be here for anyone affected by dementia – wherever they are, whatever they’re going through.

Run for Team Macmillan

Alzheimer’s Society are the UK’s leading dementia charity. Every day, we work tirelessly to find new treatments and, ultimately, a cure for dementia. We provide expert information, training, and support services to all those who need our help. And we are creating a more dementia friendly society so people with the condition can live without fear and prejudice.

How you can help

We want to stop dementia in its tracks through research. We’re committed to spending £150 million on cutting-edge research over the next decade but can only do this with the support of people like you. By joining Team Alzheimer’s Society at the Brighton Half Marathon, you can help us continue investing in our researchers and get us closer to our vision of a world without dementia.

£75 can pay for 20 microtome blades, used to create slices of the brain the thickness of a human hair. This enables researchers to study the intricate detail of brain cells, and the toxic proteins that cause dementia.

£100 covers Alzheimer’s Society’s cost of supporting one patient with early stage Alzheimer’s for three months on one of our vital trials. Their time and dedication provide us with the potential to treat symptoms and slow the progression of dementia.

£250 can pay for 100 microlitres of a special chemical that is applied to brain tissue, allowing researchers to study how brain cells are affected by the disease.

The benefits of joining Team Alzheimer’s Society

In return we’ll support you every step of the way, and provide you with some fantastic benefits:

  • A fundraising pack with advice and inspiration to help you smash your target
  • An Alzheimer’s Society running top to wear with pride on the day
  • Access to our training zone, with training guides for all abilities as well as information from our professional coaches on everything you need to get you race-ready, including nutrition and tapering
  • The most incredible race-day experience with the loudest cheer points on the course and a hero’s welcome at our post-race marquee where you can pick up some refreshments
  • Most importantly, the knowledge that you are helping Alzheimer’s Society get one step closer to beating dementia

Join Team Alzheimer’s Society at the Brighton Half Marathon and you miles can help us beat dementia.

Run for Team Macmillan

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December 29, 2019 at 7:41 pm
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Charity of the Week: Macmillan

Team Macmillan runners

Being told ‘you have cancer’ can affect so much more than your health – it can also affect your family, your job, even your ability to pay the bills. But you’re still you. We get that. And, after over 100 years of helping people through cancer, we get what’s most important: that you’re treated as a person, not just a patient. Through better treatment we have added years to life but now we need to add life to years.

Run for Team Macmillan

Macmillan is the UK’s leading cancer supporter charity giving personal, one to one care and support to thousands of people every day. We are the only charity supporting anyone, no matter their age, where they live or their cancer diagnosis. It’s why we’ll take the time to understand what matters. We help people make sense of their diagnosis and guide them through treatment, so we can help get the support needed to take care of their health, protect their personal relationships and deal with money and work worries.

In Brighton and Hove an average of 1,365 people are diagnosed with cancer each year. In 2018, Macmillan had 10 professionals working in Brighton and Hove and they gave out 100 grants totalling £38,500 to help cancer patients in the local area. This was only possible due to the amazing fundraising efforts of people like you!

How you can help

Without our amazing fundraisers we wouldn’t be able to provide the vital services and support that people living with cancer need. Join Team Macmillan for the Brighton Half Marathon and help us reach our goal of being with everyone from their point of diagnosis:

  • £52 could help run a large Macmillan Information & Support Centre for 1 hour
  • £100 could pay for a person affected by cancer to attend a Health and Wellbeing event, providing them with skills to improve the management of these areas in their lives
  • £145 could pay for a Macmillan Grant that would make a significant contribution to the cost of a person’s travel to hospital for cancer treatment.
  • £221 could pay for a Macmillan nurse for 1 day, helping people living with cancer and their families receive essential medical, practical and emotional support
  • £500 could pay for a Macmillan professional to attend an advanced course in pain and symptom control. This would help the professional provide better advice to people with cancer on how to control their symptoms and deal with the pain caused by treatment.

Macmillan runners at the finish lineHow we’ll support you

In return we’ll support you every step of the way, and provide you with these resources free of charge:

  • A fundraising pack which will have all the help you’ll need to absolutely smash your fundraising target
  • A Macmillan technical T-shirt or running vest, plus iron on letters to customise your kit
  • Access to the Macmillan training zone to make sure you’re ready for race day
  • The loudest applause from our world-famous Macmillan cheer points who will give you the encouragement to finish in your best time
  • Exclusive access to our hospitality marquee on race day, which will be full of refreshments and a lot of camaraderie from your fellow runners

So, what are you waiting for? Get the support you need to get to the finish line whilst raising money to help people living with cancer.

Run for Team Macmillan

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December 15, 2019 at 6:00 am
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Make a difference with every step for Chestnut Tree House

Join Team Chestnut

 

Become a half marathon hero with Team Chestnut whilst helping children and young people with life-shortening conditions across Sussex and South East Hampshire.

Amazing people like you help so many families every year. You help families create precious memories together at Chestnut Tree House, help care for children in their own homes, help give carers time to recharge their batteries, and help parents through the most difficult time of saying goodbye.

 

Whether you’re a running rookie or distance dynamo, we’re here for every step of your journey. As a Chestnut Tree House runner you’ll be invited to our coffee catch ups and training runs, plus we’ll be there to cheer you along on the day and welcome you home with well-deserved refreshments.

You’ll also get a bespoke Chestnut Tree House running vest to wear with pride during training runs and on the day. All we ask for joining Team Chestnut is that you commit to raising £200.

 

The money you raise helps in so many ways and really does make a huge difference in the lives of children and families across Sussex. Here are just a few ways it helps…

  • £150: Allows a family of four to stay overnight together at Chestnut Tree House knowing their child is cared for all night.
  • £220: Gives carers a few hours respite and time together as their child is cared for in their own home.
  • £230: Puts on a ‘Stay & Play’ session at Chestnut Tree House for children to enjoy a range of activities and make precious memories.
  • £268: Means 5 families and their children can enjoy time together and feel free in the hydrotherapy pool at Chestnut Tree House.
  • £285: Covers the cost of all care services provided at Chestnut Tree House for one hour.

Join Team Chestnut. For yourself. For local families. For making precious memories. For the Now.

If you have any questions about joining Team Chestnut or your fundraising, please feel free to call us anytime on 01903 706355, we are here to help you throughout your fundraising journey with us.

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December 10, 2019 at 6:00 am
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Charity of the Week: The Sussex Beacon

 


Run with Team Beacon and support the charity behind The Grand Brighton Half Marathon!

Over the last four years of The Grand Brighton Half Marathon, Team Beacon has rapidly grown. Thanks to their dedicated support and generosity, we have been able to provide specialist care and support to many people living with HIV.

2019 was another big year for Team Beacon, as we provided extra special and exclusive facilities in the race village for our runners for a second year to maximize the race day experience for Team Beacon. We were thrilled to meet our runners, to celebrate with them as they proudly posed with their medals for free professional photos and to congratulate them with well-deserved sweet treats and hot soup.

Due to the fantastic feedback and rocketing Team Beacon sign up numbers for the 2019 race, our team are busy working on an even better marquee for our dedicated runners and supporters. Our spectacular Team Beacon marquee promises to deliver an exclusive baggage area, warming and delicious catering, photographer, comfy seating, motivational music, post-race reception and much more – all in one place in the race village! Thanks to our loyal sponsor Glencairn Consulting Ltd, our runners will also receive their technical Team Beacon running vest straight to their door, so they can train proudly in their team colours. Fundraising resources, competitions, training runs and race day information is just a few taps away with our Team Beacon Facebook Group, where runners can ask questions and share training tips.

The Sussex Beacon needs you!

Over 100,000 people live with HIV in the UK, a number which increases every day. With daily medication people living with HIV can lead normal lives, however many suffer with psychological effects and HIV-related illnesses, such as cancer and dementia. The complex combination of HIV and related illnesses require specialist treatment. Brighton has the 2nd highest HIV prevalence in the UK, and access to specialist care and support is vital. With a 10-bed inpatient unit, The Sussex Beacon provides 24 hour medical and psychological care to people struggling with a new diagnosis, starting new medication, recovering from HIV-related cancer treatment and dementia, requiring family services and end of life care. Most of all, it provides a safe, comforting place for patients in their time of need. You can help us continue to offer support to those who need it most.

Click here to find out more and join Team Beacon

 

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November 7, 2019 at 3:39 pm
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The Active for Life Running Challenge youth programme

The Sussex Beacon, the charity behind the Brighton Half Marathon, have been working in partnership with Active for Life on their annual Running Challenge programme for several years. The programme offers reduced entry into our Brighton Half Youth Races, a fun, one-mile race aimed at children of all abilities aged 7-17.

The Active for Life Running Challenge programme supports children in Y3-Y6 to train and participate in The Brighton Half Youth Race and the Mini Mile; two prestigious local running events.

The goal is to set yourself a challenge to run your personal best at both races.

The Active for Life team work with local schools to target those children who are the least active and /or would like the opportunity to get involved with the Running Challenge to help boost their confidence and self-esteem through physical activity. It also helps with getting the young people active and achieving their Active 60 Minutes a day and hopefully also inspiring their families to get involved too.

The project is run by Brighton & Hove City Council, Healthy Lifestyles team, to support people in the city to lead active lifestyles. Active for Life has grown into a city-wide initiative which reaches out to thousands of Brighton & Hove residents every year, supporting them to become more active, more often.

To find out more about Running Challenge email Vanessa.lynham@brighton-hove.gov.uk

“My grandson joined Active for Life after discussions with school and his physiotherapist at Seaside view. He suffers from DCD and his mobility is challenging for him at times. He had little confidence to join in sports as he had low self-esteem around his size and ‘clumsiness’ as he described it. We encouraged him to give it a go and see how he felt after a couple of sessions.

“You have all been very supportive with encouraging him that it’s all about the taking part and not the competitiveness.  He has achieved so much more self-esteem since he began, although it’s a work in progress. He was so proud of himself after completing his Youth Race and didn’t stop telling everyone and showing his medal off. He is really looking forward to completing his next run in April and getting another medal for his collection.”

 

“My daughter’s participation in the AFL Running Challenge has hugely raised her self-confidence and self-esteem. Being able to find a platform where her skills and abilities are rewarded and acknowledged away from academic success, has undoubtedly built on her own self-worth and her understanding that we all have skills in different areas.

“The running challenge enables her to shine, and challenge herself, away from the pressures of academia. For all learners, like my daughter, I think this is vital in building their resilience and self-confidence at a time when pressures on young people from social media etc are at an all-time high. 

“I also feel that the team spirit involved in the training and on the day of events is a wonderful and rewarding experience for all of them. They are able to bond over their experiences, positive and negative and support each other’s involvement. It’s not just about winning but about taking part and supporting each other, regardless of ability.”

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at 3:11 pm
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Take a sneak peek at our anniversary medal

Drum roll please… we’re delighted to reveal the special medal for our 30th anniversary race on 23rd February. We don’t know about you, but it’s got us very excited about race day next year!

If you haven’t yet entered but want one of these bling beauties, enter soon as we’re getting close to sell out for general entries. Once we sell out, we never re-open the race so this is your last chance.

 

Team Beacon 2019
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September 9, 2019 at 9:23 am
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Glencairn Consulting returns as Team Beacon Sponsor

The Sussex Beacon are celebrating a staggering 30 years of the Brighton Half Marathon in 2020. Most importantly, 30 years of support from local businesses and thousands of volunteers who make this event and Team Beacon possible.

The Grand Brighton Half Marathon is our biggest fundraiser. Owned and delivered by The Sussex Beacon, the event raises essential funds for our services for people living with HIV. Within the 12,000 annual entrants are a team of runners going the extra mile by fundraising for The Sussex Beacon. We call these incredible people ‘Team Beacon’. Over the last 4 years, 750 Team Beacon runners raised an astonishing £105,000 with support from family and friends.

Our Team Beacon Sponsor

We are proud to provide Team Beacon with fantastic facilities, hospitality and support on race day to give every runner the best experience. This wouldn’t be possible without one very special supporter who goes above and beyond to support The Sussex Beacon.

Andrew Buchan, IT Architect and Director at Glencairn Consulting, is generously sponsoring Team Beacon 2020! Supporting the charity and every runner who is testing their limits by running 13.1 miles for The Sussex Beacon.

Glencairn Consulting are an independent IT consulting company providing Enterprise Architecture services to companies across financial, public, private and charity sectors. They specialise in major change programs and above all bring years of experience delivering new technologies in cost saving delivery methodologies. Andrew very generously supports a variety of good causes any way he can. 

Andrew is a keen runner himself and advocates the physical and mental benefits of running.

“There is nothing better than to go out for an early morning run and let problems resolve through the run. Running in groups and events are a great method of pushing your limits to get to the next goal. For me it’s about pushing yourself to achieve a better time than before. Whilst also enjoying the atmosphere and fun in running”

Why The Grand Brighton Half Marathon?

We are always blown away by Andrews commitment to running and supporting local charities in the process. Andrew has completed many challenge events, and we’re delighted The Grand Brighton Half Marathon remains on his yearly running calendar.

“The Brighton Half is a great course and a good starting point for half marathon events. The support along the route is great and you feel encouraged all the way. The location is perfect with a near flat course (albeit a slight incline on first leg). It is a great feeling running along Madeira Drive and finishing knowing you have achieved a goal and made a huge impact on charities like The Sussex Beacon as a result. The Sussex Beacon is a great charity to support and one of my favourites. Team Beacon is a great place to join and become part of a huge running team with encouragement all the way, a private tent for preparing and relaxing in after the event, plus free food to re-charge the batteries.”

We asked Andrew to tell us his favourite thing about The Grand Brighton Half Marathon – and we definitely agree!

“The atmosphere. No matter what the weather, the streets are crowded with supporters and it’s an amazing feeling crossing the line knowing what you have achieved personally and for charities.”

Supporting The Sussex Beacon

Andrew has been a supporter and volunteer at The Sussex Beacon for many years. A vital part of the team, he always goes above and beyond to support the organisation any way he can.

“I have been personally involved with the Sussex Beacon for about 5 years now and as a HIV Positive man, I know the services they provide are vital to our community. Not only in Brighton but the surrounding areas too. The team provide valuable services to anyone affected by HIV and are fully supportive and inclusive. Sponsoring Team Beacon allows me to give something back to The Sussex Beacon. Helping to raise awareness of their cause whilst encouraging runners to join Team Beacon.”

We are incredibly fortunate for Andrew’s invaluable support. Without ongoing supporters and volunteers like Andrew and Glencairn Consulting, we simply wouldn’t exist.

If you would like to join Team Beacon, please visit the Team Beacon page for full details or register via the ‘Enter 2020’ button. If you would like to volunteer for The Sussex Beacon or support the charity in other ways however, please visit The Sussex Beacon website.