As the M&D Care Llanelli Half Marathon edges closer, participants are starting to feel the excitement in the build-up to race day. The event, which takes place next Sunday will be the first time it has been hosted in September, which is hoped to experience better conditions than any previous event.

Tash Smith, Race Director, said

“We can’t wait to bring back the Llanelli Half Marathon next Sunday. It is always a great event for athletes and club runners alike. As a coastal race it can be a challenge and subject to the conditions on race day, but we hope to see lots of PB’s for our runners this year!”

To help runners and spectators find out everything they need to know ahead of race day, we’ve put together a complete low down below:

Where is the start?

Starting and finishing at the home of the Scarlets rugby team, the Parc Y Scarlets stadium (SA14 9UZ) is perfect for athletes to warm up and get ready for the big event that starts at 9 am.

Need to know

Race facilities will be open from 7.00 am, where runners will find everything, they need, including toilets, catering facilities and the bag drop-off point. Toilets & water stations will be located across the route, so runners needn’t worry about being caught short.

Road closures

The M&D Care Llanelli Half Marathon is a fully closed road race, so residents and participants are advised to plan their trip well in advance. There will be several roads affected, and road closures will be in force from 8.30 am. To find out more CLICK HERE.

Where to park?

Event parking is situated opposite the ground and is signposted. Anyone travelling by car will be able to access the stadium via the underpass allowing everyone to get to the start area safely.

What to expect

It is an undulating course that challenges runners to be their best and takes in some of the best views of West Wales. Although it’s often known for being slightly wet and windy at times, conditions should be better than in previous events!

Reason to run

Many runners lining up will be raising money for charity and good causes. At the same time, others will be aiming for a PB or getting into the spirit by wearing their best fancy dress! Headline sponsors and the team at M&D Care are proud to be taking to the route again this year to raise funds for the Paul Ridd foundation. Michael Bevan, director at M&D Care, said:

“We are thrilled to be the headline sponsor of the Llanelli Half Marathon once again this year. It is an important event for the region that promotes the health and well-being of all, which is something we are passionate about. To be able to support the Paul Ridd foundation through such a great event for West Wales is wonderful. We look forward to seeing the team in full force on the day.”

Baggage

Runners are being advised to avoid bringing a bag, but if they must, ALL bags must be clearly labelled using the bag tag from your Race Pack. Runners are advised not to carry or store any valuables in their bag. The baggage area will be in the East Stand concourse of Parc Y Scarlets, the entrance to which will be signposted.

Route & Timings

The race will start at 9 am outside Parc Y Scarlets, but runners need to be in the assembly area no later than 8:30 am. The official vehicle sponsored by Nathaniel Cars will take runners on fully closed roads to the beautiful Millennium Coastal Path towards Festival Fields, where they will turn to head back towards Parc Y Scarlets along the coastal path. Runners will pass Machynys and the wetlands conservation area before returning to the stadium.

Key race day timings:

· 07:00: Event & bag drop opens (East Stand Concourse)

· 08:30: Road closures commence

· 08:45: Bag drop closes

· 9:00: Race starts

· 10:45: Winner’s presentation

· 14:00: All roads re-open

· 15:00: Event closes

Water

The event is aiming to reduce its touchpoints and environmental footprint, so runners are being asked to bring their own personal water bottle or hydration pack. There will be Brecon Carreg water stations available on the course at approximately miles 3, 5, 8, 11 and at the finish.

Spectating

Spectators are welcome to support their loved ones at the event and across the course to cheer runners on and give them the boost they need! Spectators will enjoy all the race highlights, commentary and sounds from Nation Radio at the stadium and refreshments vendors will be on-site to make sure you can refuel. Furry friends are welcome on the route, but please note that all dogs must be on a lead across the course and will not be allowed within Parc Y Scarlets. 

Need to know more?

To find out more, head to the website to download the Official Race Day Guide for top tips, do’s and don’ts and essential safety information for the day. Stay ahead of all the news as it happens by following Llanelli Half on the usual social media outlets and tag us in your race day pictures as you #RunElli and #BeYourBest