Thousands of runners flooded Brighton & Hove on Sunday, 1 March, for the 2026 Brighton Half Marathon. The iconic seafront hosted the 13.1-mile race, with a start and finish at Hove Lawns.
Fast & Scenic Route Delights Runners
The course took competitors along Madeira Drive and Marine Parade, known for its flat and speedy profile. This made it perfect for elite racers chasing top times, while still welcoming club runners, charity entrants, and first-timers.
A blistering early pace saw the lead pack break away quickly, setting up an intense battle along the coast. The race only heated up in the final stages, showcasing the Brighton Half’s status as a key early-season event.
Women’s Race & Wheelchair Athletes Shine
The women’s field was just as fierce, with a strong front-runner dominating before the halfway point. Maintaining a steady pace along the exposed seafront proved decisive.
The wheelchair race added to the excitement, with competitors showing speed and tactical skill. Their presence highlights the event’s commitment to inclusivity alongside elite and mass participation runners.
Organisational Glitches Mar Smooth Day
However, not all went smoothly. Just before the first finishers crossed the line, press photographers had to hold up a fence that threatened to blow down — with no staff around to handle it.
Several spectators and runners also complained about security crews being unhelpful and at times, rude, dampening what should have been a perfectly run day.
Despite this, thousands crossed the line representing local clubs, charities like The Sussex Beacon, and national running groups. Crowds created a buzzing atmosphere along the route, from start to finish on Madeira Drive.
The 2026 Brighton Half Marathon once again proved it’s one of the UK’s top coastal races, with strong performances and huge community spirit. But organisers will surely take note to tighten up event management next year.
