Associated British Ports (ABP), the UK's largest port operator, proudly marks a significant milestone - 10 years of supporting Southampton's biggest community running event. This event has grown over the past decade, now offering four distance runs to cater for all ages and abilities. It actively promotes physical fitness and champions a range of nationwide charities, reinforcing the importance of well-being. The event is an established fixture in the running calendar and an established annual showcase for the City. It stands as a powerful celebration of health, achievement, and fundraising, drawing in participants locally and from across the UK.
According to the latest figures from Rees Leisure, over the past 10 years, participants have run more than 1 million miles on the course, raised £4 million for local and national charities, brought £15 million into the city, and invested £90,000 into local communities.
Alastair Welch, Regional Director at Associated British Ports said: "The Port and the City of Southampton have a rich heritage, and we are pleased to build on this as we continue to support one of the city's largest community events, attracting both local runners and people from further afield."
Chris Rees, Race Director at Rees Leisure: “I am immensely proud of Southampton for reaching this exciting milestone of a decade of running. It is a testament to all the volunteers and residents who make this event so special, encouraging runners to come back to this event time and time again. The ABP mile makers provide so much support on the route cheering on runners and making this event a must do in every runners calendar!”
ABP's ongoing sponsorship of the Southampton Marathon is a key part of the ABP series, a programme of support for mass participation in wellness events close to its port locations in 2025. These include Cleethorpes (near ABP's Port of Grimsby), Newport, Cardiff, and Ipswich. Events open to all include two marathons, four half-marathons, three 10K runs and two 5K runs.
