The streets of Bristol buzzed with energy on May 11, 2025, as the Bristol Half Marathon, part of the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run, saw 23,000 runners tackle the city’s iconic routes. From the Harbourside to the Avon Gorge, this sold-out event marked a historic moment, expanding into a two-day celebration of fitness, charity, and community. With the Junior and Mini Runs stealing the spotlight on Saturday, the half marathon and 10K races on Sunday delivered unforgettable moments. Let’s dive into why this year’s event was a game-changer and how Bristol came alive in pictures, capturing derby delight and the big run.
Bristol Half Marathon: A Record-Breaking Sunday
Sunday’s Bristol Half Marathon drew thousands, with runners weaving past landmarks like Castle Park and Queen Square. The 13.1-mile course, described as “super scenic,” challenged participants while showcasing Bristol’s vibrant heart. Over 70 road closures ensured a smooth race, though locals navigated alternative routes like Bedminster Roundabout to Temple Way. The event village at Lloyds Amphitheatre buzzed with activities, from live music to charity stalls, keeping spectators engaged.
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One standout story was Gary MacAlister from Trowbridge, who aimed to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest half marathon in a 3D aircraft costume, raising funds for his local air ambulance. Runners like Dan Nixon also shone, carrying 15kg to symbolize unseen burdens while supporting Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal. These personal missions highlighted the event’s deeper purpose: uniting people for causes that matter.
| Event Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Participants | 23,000 across 10K and half marathon |
| Route | Harbourside, Avon Gorge, Queen Square |
| Charity Focus | Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, air ambulance |
| Road Closures | Over 70 on May 11, 7:30 AM–3:30 PM |
Super Saturday Sets the Stage for Bristol Half Marathon
Saturday, dubbed “Super Saturday,” introduced the first-ever standalone Junior and Mini Great Bristol Run, with over 1,000 young runners dashing 1.5km or 2.5km from College Green. The event, designed to give kids their moment to shine, sold out, and entries for 2026 are already open at Super Earlybird rates. Photos from the day, shared widely online, captured joyful faces and proud parents, making it a perfect warm-up for Sunday’s main event.
The two-day format, a first for the Great Bristol Run, responded to running’s post-pandemic surge. Paul Foster, CEO of the Great Run Company, noted the change allowed more families to join without clashing with Sunday’s packed schedule. This shift not only boosted participation but also amplified the event’s community vibe, with TV stars reportedly cheering on the young runners, adding a touch of glamour.
Bristol in Pictures: Derby Delight and the Big Run
The Bristol Half Marathon wasn’t just about running—it was a visual feast. Social media exploded with images of runners in colorful gear, quirky costumes, and emotional finish-line moments. Posts on X highlighted the event’s scale, with @itvwestcountry noting 24,000 participants flooding the city center. The “derby delight” came from stories like Heather Hall, who ran the half marathon “out of sheer stubbornness,” proving grit knows no bounds.
Bristol’s spirit shone through in every snapshot, from sweaty high-fives to kids clutching medals. The event’s inclusivity stood out, with the 10K VI Challenge and Elite Wheelchair races ensuring everyone had a place on the start line. As runners crossed the finish, the sense of collective achievement was palpable, tying the city together in a way only Bristol can.
Why This Matters
The 2025 Bristol Half Marathon wasn’t just a race—it was a celebration of resilience, charity, and community. With both the 10K and half marathon sold out, anticipation for 2026 is already building. Whether you ran, cheered, or dodged road closures, this weekend reminded us why Bristol remains a beacon for runners worldwide. So, lace up, sign up early, and join the movement—Bristol’s streets are calling.