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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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at 6:26 pm
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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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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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at 2:10 pm
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2020 event news

We have had a few queries about this year’s race and a small cluster of coronavirus cases in Brighton. Each year we work closely with the NHS locally and the South East Coast Ambulance Service and they are directly involved in the planning process for the event. In all matters of public health, we strictly follow the recommendations of the government, health agencies and the NHS.

Coronavirus is a developing situation for the authorities and we are in close contact with NHS England and Brighton & Hove council regarding this. There is no change to the planned event on 23 February.

You can find the latest information and advice from Public Health England at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

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February 4, 2020 at 10:22 am
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2 weeks to go: Taper time!

Tapering your training

It’s time to start the all-important final aspect of your training: tapering.

Whilst it may seem counter-intuitive, tapering is essential to preventing injury before the big day, and ensuring you perform at your very best. So, try to keep your excitement under control, and resist the urge to train like mad, as the countdown begins!

What is tapering?

The taper period is when you reduce the intensity of your training as the half marathon approaches, to allow your body to properly recover and adjust. Each runner’s requirements will differ, and the person with whom you develop your training plan will help you plan the most effective taper period for your body.

Why is tapering important?

Tapering can dramatically reduce your risk of sustaining an injury during the race and prevent problems during your recovery period too.

During your taper period, your muscle glycogen levels return to their optimal level. Various enzymes, hormones and antioxidants, which are depleted during training, also return to their peak levels, and muscle and connective tissue is given chance to repair and strengthen in time for race day. Tapering also allows your immune system to improve dramatically after the strain of training.

The tapering period is also when your body will reap the benefits of training. The ways in which your performance improves through training are called ‘training adaptations’ and require a certain amount of rest to take place. This means that while you may not be working as hard during your taper, it’s an essential step towards being at your fittest and fastest by the time race day comes around.

Science for maximum performance

With your hard training done and your tapering period about to begin, there’s every chance you’re already keeping to a nutrient-rich diet to ensure maximum performance – but have you considered how you’ll stay hydrated and energized during the race? Runners Need has a wide range of nutrition and hydration foods and supplements to keep your blood sugar levels at peak and prevent the dreaded flagging. Visit Runners Need’s in-store experts to find the on-the-go products guaranteed to help you power through.

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January 23, 2020 at 6:00 am
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How to prevent injuries in the lead up to race day

Runners

With the countdown to The Grand Brighton Half Marathon officially underway, it’s important to look after yourself during this intense time, and make sure you don’t sustain any injuries before the big day. We’ve teamed up with our partner Runners Need to bring you expert advice on avoiding injury to make sure you’re in top shape for race day.

Listen to your body

Bear in mind that every runner is different. We all have different injury thresholds, which means that the golden rule when training for the half marathon is to listen to your body. Being honest with yourself about your limits, and not forcing your body past them, will mean more effective training, a minimised risk of injury and, most of all, a happy and successful race.

Before a run: preparation is everything

The importance of warming up before a run cannot be emphasised enough. Warming up is essential for reducing your risk of injury. It loosens up your muscles, gets your heart rate up and primes your body for exercise. Plus, starting with a warm-up jog prevents you from getting too tired on your run and stopping your run early, which can harm your motivation.

Strength training in the gym alongside running is critical to half marathon success, particularly targeting glutes, calves and hamstrings. It helps to prevent injury in these key areas by building up the muscle in your legs, therefore preparing them for endurance running. Building a strong core is also essential for running form, as it stabilises your upper body which improves your posture and speed.

During your run: be methodical

During your training runs is when listening to your body comes into play. Running injuries don’t suddenly appear: there are always warning signs (aches, pains, soreness) which you need to be careful not to ignore. It’s also important to remember that recovery days exist to allow your muscles time to repair, and over-training will only increase your risk of injury, so ensure you have – and stick to! – a training plan which includes enough recovery time.

In fact, a training plan is a cornerstone of effective half marathon training. Plans are entirely individual and depend on the runner’s current fitness level, running goal and time available. You should consult a running specialist to help you establish an attainable goal and develop a plan which will ensure you reach it without hurting yourself.

During your half marathon training, you should gradually increase your mileage to ensure you don’t put too much stress on your body before it’s ready – a sure way to get injured. Varying the pace and length of your runs will allow you to train for both speed and endurance leading up to the half marathon and will make sure you’re not putting too much consistent strain on your body. A great tip is to check out the profile of the course you’ll be running so you can prepare accordingly, such as if the course is particularly hilly. Luckily for you, the Brighton half marathon course is nice and flat!

A tapering period, in which you cut down on training as the half marathon approaches, can dramatically reduce your risk of injury on the day, and prevent problems during your recovery period. Every runner’s tapering period will differ in length and intensity, and the person with whom you develop your training plan will advise you on this. Tapering may seem counterintuitive, and many runners believe it will damage their performance, but your hard training should be done by this time. Tapering is a chance for the changes you’ve made to take effect: the ways in which you grow faster and fitter through training are called ‘training adaptations’, and actually take place during recovery. So, whilst you’re running less in your taper period, your body is still working hard to get you ready for race day.

After a session: don’t underestimate recovery

You must never forget to properly recover after every run. Recovery is as important to half marathon preparation as training is, and a necessary step to prevent injuries. Stretching to cool down after every run is a must, as is using rollers and massage kits to keep your circulation going and rid the body of toxins. Again, ensuring your training plan includes scheduled recovery days after hard or long sessions is key.

Peak performance from the ground up

Running in the right shoes is essential not only for preventing injuries, but for performing at your best and getting the most out of your training. Runners Need offers free gait analysis and shoe fittings with in-store experts, who will help match you with your perfect running shoe. You’ll also find the latest innovations in performance fabrics, high-tech gadgets and nutrition science, as well as advice born from experience to help you smash the race!

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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.

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August 21, 2019 at 9:57 am
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Meet our first place winner from 30 years ago

Brighton Half celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2020 and as part of the celebrations, we’ve been taking a jaunt down memory lane. We were lucky enough to meet the first ever winner of the race back in 1990 –  David Knight.

David Knight at our launch night with wife Mandi

What was your winning time back in that very first Brighton Half in 1990?

I think about 1hr 7mins.

Was there a prize for winning the race?
A medal and £25 vouchers I think.

Do you recall who came second and third that first year?
I’m not sure the first year, but in the second year the second runner was Mike Smith, but there was a bit of drama as even though I beat him by 4mins 45secs, because I entered on the day, I wasn’t allowed the first medal – they gave it to him! (See the news cutting at the foot of the blog).

What was the route for that first race?
It started at the Marina and ran along the undercliff then back on ourselves on the top road – Marine Parade. After that I can’t remember!

Do you recall how many runners took part?
There was about 400-450.

How did you find out about the race – was it very much a club event back then?
I ran for Brighton & Hove Athletics Club, and was invited to run by Ron Grover of Arena 80.

Were there many people watching?
Sam Lambourn cycled in front with me, but there were only really people at the finish. None of the roads were closed back then.

Have you carried on running in the 30 years since?
Yes little bits – I stopped in 1995 as my wife was very ill fighting cancer, but she’s fine now. At the time I was sponsored by Adidas.

Do you think the running industry has changed much over the 30 years?
There is bigger prize money, which has brought more elite runners from all over the world. And because of the fitness boom, there are a lot more runners doing it to keep fit and healthy.

Do you know if people ran for charities in races back in the early 1990s?
Yes they did.

out on the first place medal because race rules disallowed his 'on the day entry'.

A press cutting from The Argus in 1991 after David Knight missed out on the first place medal because race rules disallowed his ‘on the day entry’.

 

 

Relay Runners
Article by
July 29, 2019 at 2:39 pm
Brighton Half Marathon 2020  |  The Sussex Beacon Relay
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10 reasons to enter The Sussex Beacon Relay

Are you a group of friends that need a reason to start keeping fit? A business looking for a team building activity?

The Sussex Beacon is proud to organise The Grand Brighton Half Marathon each year, incorporating our very own relay race ‘The Sussex Beacon Relay’. Next year will be the fifth year for our relay and it gets bigger and better every year.  The event is open to groups of friends and families as well as businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to dust off your running trainers and hit the pavement, all for a brilliant cause.

With teams of four, each runner will take on approximately 5k. If you find the full 13.1 miles too daunting, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved. The support you’ll receive from your team mates and our fundraising team will keep you motivated. Maybe you’ll get the bug and next year you’ll all be entering the half marathon as solo runners!

Why take part in The Sussex Beacon Relay?

You can probably think of ten things you would rather be doing on a brisk February Sunday morning than running 5k in Lycra shorts… but this isn’t just any relay. So here are ten reasons why you should take part:

  1. Exclusive hospitality

All relay runners raising money for The Sussex Beacon will get exclusive access to our super-duper marquee on race day. Inside we have mountains of delicious food, snacks and drinks, comfy seats, motivational music, professional photography and a separate secure baggage area. Teams with a Celebration Entry will also have access to exclusive hospitality at The Grand Hotel on Brighton seafront on race day.

  1. Meet at 450ft

Your team will be invited to join The Sussex Beacon at the annual Team Beacon meet up in early February at a location in Brighton (last year this was held at the British Airways i360!). Your team will then receive a quick briefing on the details of the relay, maps, race numbers and your Relay T-shirts.

  1. Fantastic medal

Once your runners have each completed their leg of the race, you’ll be presented with a brilliant The Sussex Beacon Relay medal to commemorate your achievement!

  1. Prizes

The three fastest teams win an engraved award, whilst the team to complete the relay course in the fastest time and the team to raise the most funds each win a prize.

  1. Team building

This may seem like a simple four-person relay, but it requires strategy, communication and enthusiasm. From deciding your running order, your pace and your eye-capturing attire, to orchestrating award-winning fundraising tactics. The runner’s teamwork skills will determine their success!

  1. Bragging rights

In just a few short years, our relay has generated unprecedented levels of competition between our regular teams. Whether it’s being crowned the fastest or the highest fundraising team, the promise of ultimate bragging rights has fuelled rivalry both online and on the course.

  1. Do it for Instagram

With social media becoming a big part of our work and personal lives, an opportunity for some great content is hard to pass up on! From training to fundraising, you can spread the word and get your followers interacting with your challenge.

  1. Bring the community together

Competition aside, we hope to bring the community together to support local businesses integral to Brighton’s rich culture of diversity and inclusivity and to raise vital funds for The Sussex Beacon.

  1. You’re not alone

Our fabulous team of staff and volunteers at The Sussex Beacon are on hand to provide support and resources from the moment you register your team into the race.

  1. Be eye-capturing

We don’t promote the relay as a fancy-dress race, but we want your supporters to spot you on the course! So fancy dress is welcome – just make sure it is safe for that sprint to your baton or finish line… no one wants to trip on their dinosaur tail at that crucial moment.

How to enter

There are two fantastic packages to enter starting from just £150 per team. Read the full details of what you could experience on race day and secure your team here.

Article by
April 18, 2019 at 2:40 pm
Brighton Half Marathon 2020  |  Race news
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2020 registration now open!

 

Drumroll please… We’re excited to say that entry to The Grand Brighton Half Marathon 2020 is now open! Whether you’ve run with us before or this will be your first half marathon, we hope you’ll join us for a very special race day next year…

Celebrating 30 years

2020 will be a particularly special race as we’ll be celebrating the 30 year anniversary of the event. We have lots of plans up our sleeves to celebrate our big birthday, so this is a year not to be missed! The date for your calendar is Sunday 23rd February 2020.

Early bird entry

Early bird entry is now open for a limited time so enter soon to take advantage of the pricing – be sure to tell your running friends and family too.