Shoreditch hosted over 12,000 runners and around 15,000 supporters this weekend as the borough experienced its first-ever half marathon, with the event selling out as it made its debut.
The Saucony Run Shoreditch Half 2026 saw 12,000 runners sign up to race on Sunday 20 September, a year on from the launch of Saucony Run Shoreditch, which was staged as a 10k race. Following the success of that event, it was extended to a half marathon distance with additional spaces to meet the growing demand.
The new 13.1-mile route took in Hoxton Market, Clissold Park, Stoke Newington and De Beauvoir, with each neighbourhood creating a unique atmosphere, bringing the noise to push participants on. Over 15,000 spectators lined the streets, fuelled on by the area’s local cafés and bakeries that joined in the celebrations.
First time half marathon runners and experienced pros alike took part, starting and finishing by Shoreditch Park. The park hosted the event village, which housed food vendors, music and entertainment providing an energetic central hub for the race.
First Three Finishers – Male
1st – Patrick Maher 1:09:15
2nd – Thomas Holliday 1:09:32
3rd – Magnus Ross 1:10:27
Top Three Finishers – Female
1st – Becky Briggs 1:17:12
2nd – Sophie Bradick 1:18:25
3rd – Charlotte Smith 1:19:51
Many runners were participating as part of fundraising challenges, with over £110,000 raised for the event’s official charity partners, which included Headline Charity Partner, Alzheimer’s Society, along with Bart’s Charity and Tommy’s.
Cameron Black, Vice President & General Manager at Saucony EMEA, said: “Seeing 12,000 runners take to the streets for the first-ever Run Shoreditch Half, supported by so many people from across the local community, was a brilliant demonstration of what Run As One is all about.
“We wanted this weekend to feel like something created with Shoreditch, not simply a race happening here. From bringing together local running crews, businesses and creatives in the build-up, to the thousands of runners and supporters who brought the streets to life today, it’s been brilliant to see East London get behind Run Shoreditch. A huge congratulations to everyone who took part. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of it.”
Ian Allerton, Managing Director at Motiv Sports, said: “Today’s Saucony Run Shoreditch Half shows exactly why we love putting on events for the London running community. Shoreditch brought an incredible atmosphere across the entire route. Congratulations to every runner who raced in this half marathon’s debut, you will forever be a part of this event’s history.
“Thank you to all our partners, charities and the London Boroughs of Hackney and Islington for helping us deliver this event. We are already looking forward to next year as the event further establishes itself as a key part of London’s race calendar.”
In addition to headline sponsors Saucony, the event was supported by Runna, Celsius, Runseek, e.l.f., Jubel and OTE, who delivered activations along the route and within the event village, including cheer zones and freebies.
Motiv Sports UK and Saucony also collaborate on the Saucony London 10k, which returns to central London next year on 11 July, followed by the second edition of the Saucony Run Shoreditch Half on 19 September 2027.
Don’t miss out in 2027. Head to https://www.runshoreditch.com/ to get involved.
