Romsey Relay Marathon is back for its ninth year - and there's still time to take part

The Barratt Homes Romsey Relay Marathon, which is funded by Hampshire businesses, returns for its ninth year on Sunday May 21.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Romsey Test, the event on the Broadlands Estate is open to the whole community and raises money and awareness for local charities and other good causes.

A victorious team at the Romsey Relay Marathon

The Relay Marathon gives an opportunity for anyone to take part in a team of up to 10 runners who will collectively run 26 miles and 385 yards. Each runner will run two circuits of 1.3 miles to complete their leg of the course before handing the baton to their teammate.

Every penny the teams raise goes to charities and good causes of their choice, with the whole entry fee  supporting Rotary’s work. Registration closes one week before the event – go to www.romseymarathon.co.uk.

The Relay Marathon was the idea of a former Rotarian, Tony Forward, who got the idea whilst visiting and watching his ex-pat son compete in the Bahraini Relay Marathon.

Tony brought the idea back with him and in 2013 the Rotary in Romsey held the first event, with just 32 teams. A decade on the event has grown with 120 teams last year, running for more than 50 good causes and charities, raising more than £100,000.

One of the relay runners in the 2022 event. Credit: Lee Peck Media

The beautiful venue and great atmosphere means the Relay Marathon has become more than just a run. It’s a community-oriented day out, with charity stalls, free entertainment, activities for children and the chance for family and friends to enjoy a picnic.

Charlie Daniel-Hobbs of the Rotary in Romsey said “We’re delighted to be back again on May 21 on the stunning Broadlands Estate.

“Every year the Relay Marathon gets better, with an increased community focus, more charity stalls, more to do for the kids and free entertainment which make for a village fete atmosphere.

Runners set off in last year’s Romsey Relay Marathon. Credit: Lee Peck Media

“Once again, we’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for enabling us to put the event on and to the Broadlands Estate for hosting us”.

Organisers say they are always looking for more local businesses to sponsor the event.