More than 250 runners from across the country took on the Isle of Wight’s hills, gravel tracks and coastal stretches as the Isle of Wight Half Marathon returned to Ryde on Sunday (16th August).
Organised by Ryde Harriers, the race got underway from Appley Park at 10:00, taking competitors on a looped course through to St Helens and back.
The challenging route combined quiet lanes, busier road crossings and bridleways, with this year’s event attracting one of the largest fields seen in recent years.
Victory went to Joshua Cole of Bournemouth AC, who crossed the finish line in 1:14:32.
Vectis Academy Race Team’s Joshua Price was just over a minute behind in 1:15:33, making him the first Isle of Wight runner home.
Ryde Harriers’ Joe Wade completed the men’s top 3 in 1:16:51 and was the first member of the host club to finish.
In the women’s race, Natasha White of Northbrook AC claimed victory in 1:25:43.
Ryde Harriers’ Carly Scoble finished second in 1:26:29 and was the first Isle of Wight woman across the line, while Emma Husband took third place in 1:39:33.
There was further success for Ryde Harriers in the team competitions.
Joe Wade, Ross Holme and Dave Hunt secured the men’s team victory, while Carly Scoble, Emma Clemens and Rebecca Furzeland took the women’s team honours.
Isle of Wight runners also enjoyed success in the age categories, including Daniel Furmidge, who won the M50 category.
Roger Merry topped the Men’s Veteran 70 category with a time of 2:00:24.
Competitors were full of praise for the volunteers who helped make the event possible, with the marshals in particular receiving positive feedback for their encouragement and presence at trickier sections of the course.
One runner praised the signage and mile markers, saying the event felt as though it had been:
“Organised by runners who knew exactly what runners love in a half marathon.”
Another competitor described the race as:
“An amazing event.”
They highlighted the number of marshals, plentiful water stations and the friendly and welcoming atmosphere throughout the event.
Organisers say the race passed without any major incidents, with first aid cover provided by Wight Aid.
Premier Motors supplied a van to transport equipment for the event headquarters, while Wightlink continued its support for runners travelling from the mainland.
Ryde Harriers has thanked the volunteer marshals, supporting organisations and spectators who turned out to cheer on the runners.
Full results are available from Ryde Harriers.
