The 2025 Retford Half Marathon takes place this Sunday (16th March 2025), supported by a £936 Councillor Community grant from Retford ward district Councillors.
1,400 athletes are set to compete the 13.1 mile course with the main race getting underway at 10am.
Lisa Foster, race director of Retford Half Marathon said: “We extend our sincere thanks to the Bassetlaw District Councillors for their generous donation towards the Retford Half Marathon. Their support plays a crucial role in ensuring the continued success of this much-loved event, which brings together runners of all abilities from across the region and beyond.
“The Retford Half Marathon, organised by Retford Athletic Club, is a highlight of the local sporting calendar, attracting hundreds of participants each year. The councillors’ contribution will help us enhance the event experience, from providing essential race infrastructure to supporting community engagement initiatives.
“Club representatives expressed their gratitude for this vital support, acknowledging the positive impact it has on the event’s growth and accessibility. This will allow us to further develop the race and ensure a fantastic experience for all involved.”
The course begins at Retford Oaks academy, before leading out to nearby villages of Barnby Moor and Torworth before a sharp turn onto Billy Button Lane towards Blyth, turning back towards Barnby Moor, onto London Road, into the final stretch on Babworth Road to the finish line back at the school.
The race has been running for over 20 years, this year will also see the Notts County Championships being held within the race.
Retford ward Councillors that contributed to the Half Marathon are: East Retford North, Cllr David Challinor, Cllr Graham Oxby and Cllr Jonathan Slater, East Retford East, Cllr John Manners, East Retford South, Cllr David Naylor.
Cllr David Challinor said: “The Retford Half Marathon is always a popular event and it’s great to see so many people participating this year, we want that number growing each year.
“Retford AC have some of the best athletes in the district, it’s important that we support them on their journey and be proud to represent the town.”
Each Bassetlaw District Councillor is allocated a small budget and has the discretion to award grants to community activities that will benefit within their respective electoral ward areas. Councillors will consider grant applications for sports; culture and heritage; environment and sustainability; social welfare; and community activities.
To learn more about this funding, please visit the Councillor Community Grant section of www.bassetlaw.gov.uk
Pictured (left to right): Councillor David Naylor, Lisa Foster, Race Director of Retford Half Marathon, and Councillor John Manners.
Last Updated on Friday, March 14, 2025