Blockbuster Year for Swindon New Half Marathon

Swindon’s relationship with this year’s half marathon has played out like the latest film blockbuster. Featuring the organisers and town's residents as star-crossed lovers, who have openly shared their love or dislike for an occasion which appeared doomed to fail? An event forced to fight back against the background of road closures, dwindling entrant numbers and finance.

However, when costs escalated, and the organisers released their plea for entrants. The town answered. With many deeming to sign up on the morning of the event. Proof that this story was no tragedy, but, a heart-warming show of appreciation and support from a town that values both the Swindon New Half Marathon and organisers efforts.

But, as with all good tales, this was not the end. Sunday morning's run was the finale and closing scene. Providing both with one final dilemma, the entrants had turned up would the spectators follow? Would the town rise to the challenge of spectating at the new early hour, or retire their support and the runners to a thirteen-mile wall of silence?

Arriving at the start line, I had a few concerns. Aside from the phantom injuries which I contracted on the eve of the race, I feared a severe lack of atmosphere. Many a compere and song choice had carried me across a race start line. And many a spectator to the finish. With noise restrictions in place in respect of residents and a redundant warm up, would I have the momentum to run a PB? Visions of a silent disco played on my mind with runners sporting earbuds, gliding across the line to their own beat.

But, I was not to be disappointed. An impromptu and unconventional warm-up was provided by a volunteer, Ash. An entertaining spectacle, which proved somewhat exhausting to watch. With long sprints across the stage followed by star jumps providing a great deal of laughter. And a timely departure across the start line set to a soundtrack of uplifting, motivational music lifted both my legs and mood. Setting me up for the miles ahead.

As we descended onto Queens Drive, the first mile melted away assisted by the distraction of a long line of a spectating crowd. Cheering and high fiving runners as they passed. The theme of support continued throughout the race with spectators taking to railway bridges and sideroads to cheer their fellow neighbours on. Accompanied by atmosphere stations crewed and supported by local charities at various points across the route.

As with all half marathons, some parts are more challenging than others. With the Wichelstowe stretch of the course feeling particularly long and arduous. But, as per my fellow two-hour pacer, honestly put it, “Pain and suffering are part of the process, and that is why you are given a medal at the end.

It is at this point of suffering that fellow runners and the crowd come into their own. Pushing all to succeed and most importantly, not give up. I did suffer, and my pain was replaced by nausea opposed to cramp. Nonetheless, I also finished. And I know I only have the town and my fellow runners to thank for my crossing the line. For, if I did not feel the first mile, I certainly felt the last. With the descent down Victoria Road presenting as difficult as a climb up Pipers Way.

Not even a warm welcome from partying Wood Street, or a distant shout from family to sprint home for a sub-hour time could push me to maintain my pace this year. But the crowd on Commercial Road led me to believe I was an athlete. I may not have finished with a trademark sprint or a sub two - hour time. But, I was rewarded with a PB, medal and the feeling of having completed this year's Swindon Half. Limping, running or walking, everyone should be proud of our achievements.

Because to me, pain is temporary, but, the smiles and warmth of support I received will remain with me for a long time. If Thailand is the Land of smiles, I believe that Swindon should be named the town of support. For, runner, spectator or resident, on race day this town showed up. It supported through presence, smiles and encouragement. Something that many including the organisers will not forget.

The only question left to ask is, Swindon New Half organisers - will there be another sequel next year?

If you enjoyed Emma's article, you can read more on her blog here!

By Emma Smith