Key Highlights
- Brighton Half Marathon 2026 expected to see 10,000 participants.
- Olly Alexander starts the race, raising awareness for Sussex Beacon charity.
- The weather is wet and windy, with temperatures around 11°C.
- Wheelchair athletes start first at 9:28 AM, followed by the main race at 9:30 AM.
The Brighton Half Marathon: A Community Event
Brighton’s half marathon is back with a bang, attracting thousands of runners eager to challenge themselves and support a good cause. This year, the event promises an exciting race day under the shadow of wet and windy weather conditions.
At 9:28 AM, wheelchair athletes kick off the race, setting the stage for the main event at 9:30 AM when Olly Alexander, this year’s starter, takes his place. As a pop star with a passion for charity, Alexander is running to raise funds and awareness for Sussex Beacon, which supports people living with HIV.
Preparation and Challenges
The race starts on Kingsway at Hove Lawns, winding its way through Brighton’s most iconic landmarks. Runners will pass by the Royal Pavilion, the West Pier, and the i360, among others, before reaching the colorful Hove beach huts.
Despite the challenging weather, organizers have planned meticulously to ensure a smooth experience for all participants. Road closures are in place from 3 AM onwards, with some roads closed until 2 PM. Event stewards will manage these areas to keep traffic flowing and runners safe.
The Finish Line: Celebrating Success
As the race progresses, the atmosphere at the finish line grows increasingly enthusiastic. The top ten finishers cross the line in impressive times, with Seyfu Jamaal leading the way at 1 hour 5 minutes 28 seconds. Olly Alexander himself finished in a respectable time of 02:03:43 but was not among the fastest.
The event concludes with a celebration of all participants, acknowledging their efforts and the crucial work being done by Sussex Beacon to support the LGBTQ+ community and those living with HIV.
A Look Back at the Start
Leading up to the race, Olly Alexander expressed his excitement about running his first half marathon. “I’m so excited,” he said. “This is my first half marathon, I never expected to start one, so it’s an honour. I can’t wait! It’s definitely been a challenge with the training, but I’m going to be very proud when I finish.” His determination and passion for the cause are evident in his words.
The event not only showcases athletic prowess but also highlights the importance of community support and awareness raising through such initiatives. As Brighton prepares for another race day, it’s clear that the spirit of competition and charity will continue to thrive here.
