Thousands of runners and spectators gathered for the highly anticipated Ealing Half Marathon 2024. The race, known for its friendly community spirit and scenic route, saw an electric atmosphere from the start to the finish line, accompanied by near-perfect weather conditions for participants and supporters alike.
This year’s event delivered speedy performances, with elite runners dominating the course. John Fielding, Ealing Southall Middlesex AC, claimed victory in the men’s category, crossing the finish line with a remarkable time of 1 hour, 7 minutes, and 54 seconds, shaving nearly two minutes 30 off last year’s winning time. The women’s race was equally thrilling, with Hattie Freeman of Clapham Chasers clocking an impressive 1 hour, 15 minutes, and 26 seconds, making her the second ever female finisher in 12 years of the Ealing Half Marathon.
The streets of West London were lined with cheering fans, encouraging runners throughout the scenic 13.1-mile course, which wound through the tree-lined avenues of Ealing, Montplier, Pitshanger, Central Ealing, Hanwell, and Bunny Park
The day wasn’t just about elite athletes. Thousands of participants from all walks of life took part, with personal milestones celebrated across the board. From charity fundraisers to first-time runners, the Ealing Half Marathon 2024 embodied the spirit of inclusivity and community. Over £100,000 was raised for local and national charities, including event partners, Macmillan Cancer Support, Meadow House Hospice, and Shooting Star Children’s Hospice, further cementing the race’s status as one of London’s premier running events.
Race Director Sandra Courtney expressed her delight with the success of this year’s event. “The atmosphere today was simply electric,” she said. “Ealing is known for its supportive community, and once again, the residents and spectators came out in full force. The runners gave everything they had, and we couldn’t have asked for a better day. I want to thank our volunteers, partners, and everyone involved in making this year’s race unforgettable.”
In addition to the half marathon, the event featured the Ealing Mini Mile for younger runners, giving the next generation of athletes their chance to shine. Family and friends cheered from the side-lines, adding to the festival-like atmosphere in Walpole Park, where music, food stalls, and entertainment continued throughout the day.
The Ealing Half Marathon 2024 was not only a celebration of athleticism but also a testament to the enduring community spirit that makes this event so special year after year. Planning is already underway for the 2025 race, with registration open on Monday 30th September at 1pm.
