Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon 2024
The Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon will be held on Sunday 18th February 2024
Note: it is requested that those entering this half marathon should be sufficiently fit to be able to complete the course within 3 hours or they may be requested to withdraw due to traffic restraints.
Famed for the scenic and challenging route (the 300-foot ascent of Spring Hill at Fordcombe is to be mentioned), meticulous organisation, value for money and friendly marshals, it was voted the ‘Most Improved Race in the UK’ in 2009 and was voted the No.2 Half Marathon in the UK in 2011 by Runner’s World readers. In 2019 in the “Let’s Do This” Challenge Awards it was voted the 5th Best Half Marathon in the South.
It is one of the biggest events in the UK organised by a running club and Tunbridge Wells Harriers are very proud to have hosted the event for over 30 years. Over the last 10 years, the race has also donated around £200,000 to charity and worthy local causes directly from race surplus. The race also donates free places to selected charities. We are hugely grateful to all of our sponsors and partners particularly this year to Hendy our sponsor for the 2024 event. Our race is organised by volunteers from Tunbridge Wells Harriers. We donate all our surplus to charity. This year we are supporting local charities in Tunbridge Wells.
Any donations with your entry will be shared between the various charities we distribute to. Thank you very much. For your entrance fee (see FAQ below for details), a bespoke medal, accurate chip timing, and secure baggage facilities.
Below you can find details of the course, information for the day and the prizes and trophies. If you have any questions not answered in the sections below or the FAQ page, please contact us.
The Course
The course is one of the most testing and picturesque on the racing calendar. The one-lap circuit through some of the finest countryside in Kent includes a few notable hills, among which Spring Hill on the approach to Fordcombe should be mentioned in particular. There are drink stations on the route at 3, 5.4, 8, 9.5, and 11.3 miles and at the finish, and first aid. This race is UKA certified. As this is a hilly course, we regret that it is not suitable for wheelchair athletes. Dogs or buggies will not be permitted, and athletes must not be accompanied or followed by others on cycles. This race is run under UKA Licence and therefore because it is run on shared roads headphones and earpieces of any description are NOT ALLOWED. Runners taking part should be able to complete the course within 3 hours.
RULE 240 S 5 UKA SUPPLEMENT – HEADPHONES
The wearing of headphones, or similar devices, (other than those medically prescribed), is not permitted in races on any single-carriageway road that is not wholly closed to traffic.
Bone-conducting headsets are however permitted. Thanks to those who have questioned this.
The Start
There will be signs with graded finish times positioned at the start. Please congregate in the section marked closest to your anticipated finish time in order to have a smooth start. Do not warm up on or cross the road – the start is in the bus lane on the same side of St John’s Road as the Race HQ, so there is no need to cross this very busy main road.
Safety
Traffic management is in place for the duration of the race, but roads are not completely traffic free. Traffic will be stopped on the A26 for the start at 9am. At all other times, runners MUST observe the Highway Code and rules of the road. Please abide by the directions of the marshals around the course, but understand that marshals can only advise motorists and do not have powers to stop traffic, so exercise all reasonable road sense and caution when running on and crossing roads. When running on the road, please remain on the left hand half of the road unless directed otherwise by a marshal. A vehicle will follow the race and can pick up runners who wish to drop out. It will be clearly marked ‘Drop out runners’. If you wish to drop out please inform a marshal and await the vehicle.
Head Phones and Ear Phones
As above – runners are NOT ALLOWED personal headphones or earpieces to listen to iPods, MP3 players, or other personal music players while participating in the race. Running whilst wearing headphones significantly reduces your ability to hear traffic, instructions and warnings from the police and marshals, and generally distracts your attention, increasing the risk of accident or injury to yourself and possibly other people. RULE 240 S 5 UKA SUPPLEMENT – HEADPHONES The wearing of headphones, or similar devices, (other than those medically prescribed), is not permitted in races on any single carriageway road that is not wholly closed to traffic. This is for your SAFETY.
Please note bone-conducting headsets however are permitted as these are not ‘in the ear’ devices.
Pacers
Pacers provided by Tunbridge Wells Harriers, will be on hand to help you to your target time. Pacers will be for (gun time) 1:30, 1:40, (chip time) 1:50, 2:00, 2:10 and 2:20. Due to the hilly nature of the course, the pace will vary and won’t be on ‘minute mile’ pace. Using their knowledge of the course the pacers will aim to help you to your target time. Look out for the pacer backpack-mounted flags on the day.
Water stations
Water will be provided in cups at five locations on the course at 3m, 5½m, 8m, 9½m and 11m, as well as at the finish.
Information and Number Collection Details
Getting there by rail
Due to the earlier start time of 09:00 imposed by Highways, it is only possible to travel by train to High Brooms or Tunbridge Wells from the south, (Hastings to High Brooms) to reach the start in time on race day.
Unfortunately, no trains from the north, (London to High Brooms) arrive in time for the start
If you do decide to travel by train please, check for engineering works or timetable changes at https://www.nationalrail.co.uk and plan your journey in advance.
Getting there by bus
Arriva operates the bus service www.arrivabus.co.uk – ask for Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre or Territorial Army stop.
Getting there by car and parking
Local parking is limited but there are several dedicated race car parks (see the below map). Arrive in Tunbridge Wells in plenty of time – we advise at least 60-90 minutes before the race. Please park considerately and do not block roads or residents’ driveways. There is NO parking at HQ for runners. Plan ahead where you are going to park and car share where possible. There are numerous public car parks in Tunbridge Wells within a mile of HQ. Allow plenty of time to park and walk to race HQ. There may be a charge for car parking, although some car parks are free on Sundays.
Race HQ is the sports hall section of Fusion Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, St John’s Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9TX. Only VIP Parking at Race HQ.
Changing rooms and toilets are available at HQ but NO showers. There are additional toilets outside and at the race finish area. Race Expo in the Sports Hall from 7.00am – visit our sponsors and partners for discounts, offers and advice. The Running Hub shop will be available for any last-minute items.
Entries
Your race number, which includes chip timing, will be available for collection during the week prior to the race,
For 2024 your number will be available from the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre Entrance Foyer on the week of the race
– Thursday/ Friday – 09:00 to 18:00
– Saturday – 09:00 to 17:00
Then on race day, collection will be instead from the race HQ, (the main sports hall) from 07:00 till 08:30.
The postcode for both locations is the same TN4 9TX.
Please note on Thursday until Saturday you will be able to park in the Sports Centre car park but on race day this will be closed to runners.
Number collection is also possible on the morning of the event at the RACE HQ but please collect in advance to save the rush on the day. We will NOT be posting out numbers to runners. If you cannot collect in the week prior please ensure you arrive at HQ in adequate time on race morning to allow collection of your number. Your number is disposable after the race – you do not need to return it. Do not allow anyone else to run using your race number. It is against UKA rules and could result in a medical emergency. If you do wish to transfer your number this can be done free of charge up until a week prior to the race. Email: twhalf23@gmail.com
Remember NO NUMBER OR CHIP = NO TIME. You must wear the number pinned to the FRONT of your vest. It must not be folded or altered in any way. The timing chip provided is on your number. No number, chip and you may not get a time certainly not a chip time. Please write emergency contact details and any medical conditions on the reverse of your number. On the day enquires will be handled by our information desk on the day. Again please leave plenty of time for collection of your number. Race HQ opens at 7:00am and you should be in the start pens by 8:45am to start the race which has to start promptly due to traffic management restrictions.
Baggage
We operate a free baggage drop at HQ where you can leave your belongings. Please use the issued baggage tag (affixed to your number) and fix it securely to your bag and leave sufficient time to drop your bag and get to the start approximately 5 mins walk away.
Toilets
Toilets are available at race HQ and in the finish area. Please use the toilet facilities in good time before the race start. Anybody seen urinating in residents’ gardens, especially those close to the start area, will be disqualified from the race.
Illness/injury
If you feel unwell at the time of the event as this may possibly be a Covid infection please do not take part in the event – kindly think of all the other participants.
If you are medically unfit to run a half marathon due to illness or injury, then you should not take part in the race. Please see www.runnersmedicalresource.com for medical advice related to running.
Race Results
Provisional results will be posted in HQ immediately after the race.
Full provisional race results are available here by Sunday evening or on the Nice Work website. Postal results are not available.
DO NOT FORGET TO ATTACH THE NUMBER TO THE FRONT OF YOUR VEST AND DO NOT PUT A PIN THROUGH THE TIMING CHIP OR YOU MAY NOT GET A CHIP TIME.
Traffic Management
Traffic Information
The Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon, Sunday 18th February 2023 starting at 9am.
Welcome to our Half Marathon traffic management page. Whether you are visiting this page having seen one of our advance warning signs around the course, or are an interested competitor or spectator, we hope that we can explain what will be happening on the roads around Tunbridge Wells during our event. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
In association with Kent Police and Kent County Council, we are putting in place a series of traffic management measures which will lead to certain junctions being closed or diversions instigated for a short period while the runners go past. Essential measures have been put in place to improve the safety of runners, drivers and race officials, and to improve the flow of traffic around the town during the event. Expect some disruption and delays between 09.00am – 12.00am. Some junctions will only be closed for 10 to 20 minutes, while others may be affected for up to 2 hours. Closures are, however, being kept to an absolute minimum to avoid disruption, but are essential for the safety of runners and drivers. The closures and diversions are detailed fully below.
We hope that residents will make alternative travel arrangements if affected, and come to support the race and runners taking part in the town’s biggest mass-participation sporting event.
Traffic Management Summary
The course is a single-lap anti-clockwise loop, starting and finishing in Southborough, and passing through Bidborough, Penshurst, Fordcombe, Langton Green and Tunbridge Wells.
The southern section of the course is likely to be the most congested and is detailed in this map.
Northbound traffic will be stopped on the A26 St John’s Road to allow the race to start and will be allowed to continue after about 10 minutes.
Traffic will not be permitted to join the course from roads within the circuit while the main bulk of runners is passing, and will also not be allowed to turn into these side roads from the clockwise carriageway of the circuit.
Road Closures
The following roads will be closed by statutory order (with approximate timings given for the duration of the closure):
| Junction | Detail of Restrictions | Approx Timing |
| A26 London Road j/w B2176 Bidborough Ridge |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0900 to 1000 |
| Darnley Drive j/w St Lawrence Avenue |
Road closed southbound | 0900 to 1000 |
| Woodland Way j/w B2176 Bidborough Ridge |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0900 to 1000 |
| B2176 Bidborough Ridge j/w Gate Farm Road |
No right turn onto B2176 | 0905 to 1010 |
| B2176 Bidborough Ridge j/w High Street |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0905 to 1010 |
| B2176 Penshurst Road j/w Mill Court |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0915 to 1015 |
| B2176 Penshurst Road j/w Haysden Lane |
No right turn onto B2176 | 0915 to 1015 |
| B2176 Penshurst Road j/w Barden Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0915 to 1015 |
| B2176 Rogues Hill j/w Poundsbridge Lane |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0915 to 1015 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w Leigh Road |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0915 to 1015 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w The Warren |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w Glebelands |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| Fordcombe Road j/w Grove Road |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w Smarts Hill |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 New Road j/w service road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Smarts Hill j/w Smarts Hill (to Spotted Dog PH) |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Spring Hill j/w Sandfield Road |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w The Lane |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w Chafford Lane |
No right turn onto B2188 | 0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w Old House Lane |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0920 to 1100 |
| B2188 Fordcombe Road j/w A264 Ashurst Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Ashurst Road j/w A264 Langton Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w The Green (The Hare crossroads) |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Broom Lane |
Left turn only onto A264 | 0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Salisbury Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w First Street |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Stonewall Park |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Farnham Lane |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Barrow Lane |
Left turn only onto A264 | 0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Newlands |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Holmewood Ridge |
No right turn onto A264 | 0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Dornden Drive |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Coach Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Tea Garden Lane |
No right turn onto A264 | 0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Rusthall Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A264 Langton Road j/w Bishops Down Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| Mount Ephraim j/w Molyneux Park Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| Mount Ephraim j/w Boyne Park |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| Mount Ephraim j/w Royal Chase |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| Mount Ephraim j/w Culverden Street |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Mount Ephraim and A26 Grosvenor Road |
No exit from roundabout onto Mount Ephraim | 0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Culverden Park |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w John Street |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Culverden Down |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Beltring Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Southfield Road |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Leighton Close |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
| A26 St John’s Road j/w Floyd Close |
Road closed at junction (entrance and exit) |
0945 to 1130 |
All closed roads will be clearly indicated by normal statutory signage, and will also be manned by race officials for the duration of the event.
Diversions
The following diversions will be put into place to minimise the effect of the above road closures on normal traffic flow:
A264 Langton Green
The A264 will be closed eastbound (towards Langton Green) at the junction with the B2188 Fordcombe Road. All eastbound traffic will be directed in a clockwise direction around the Half Marathon course along the B2188 to Penshurst, and then the B2176 to Bidborough. Access to Tunbridge Wells will then be via the A26 southbound through Southborough.
There will be no restriction of access to the A264 westbound (towards East Grinstead) at the B2110 junction with the A264.
Mount Ephraim (between the Grosvenor Rd roundabout and the A26 London Road)
Mount Ephraim will be closed to westbound traffic between the Grosvenor Road roundabout and the junction with the A26 London Road. Traffic will be diverted through the town centre to rejoin Mount Ephraim via Church Road along the following route: Grosvenor Road, Upper Grosvenor Road, Meadow Road, Goods Station Road, Mount Pleasant Road and Church Road.
All diversions will be easy to follow, with the routes being indicated by normal statutory signage.
Results
2022 Results
2020 Results
2019 Results
2018 Results
2017 Results
2016 Results
Results from Previous Years
| Year | Male winner | Time | Female winner | Time |
| 2022 | Liam White | 01:13:41 | Helen Gaunt | 01:23:23 |
| 2020 | Billy Hobbs | 01:13:16 | Helen Gaunt | 01:23:44 |
| 2019 | Simon Goldsworthy | 01:11:29 | Andrea Berquez | 01:26:32 |
| 2018 | Simon Goldsworthy | 01:11:21 | Maria Heslop | 01:22:25 |
| 2017 | James Connor | 01:08:50 | Maria Heslop | 01:22:27 |
| 2016 | Paul Martelletti | 01:08:30 | Maria Heslop | 01:23:43 |
| 2015 | Daniel Bradley | 01:12:59 | Alice Heather-Hayes | 01:22:33 |
| 2014 | Ben Cole | 01:11:11 | Maria Heslop | 01:21:17 |
| 2013 | Thomas Payn | 01:07:11 | Deirdre McDermot | 01:21:58 |
| 2012 | Yared Hagos | 01:04:15 | Helen Davies (nee Decker) | 01:12:41 |
| 2011 | Andy Greenleaf | 01:09:24 | Liz Yelling | 01:13:56 |
| 2010 | Ben Moreau | 01:09:11 | Helen Decker | 01:18:37 |
| 2009 | Florian Neuschwander | 01:08:49 | Tina Oldershaw | 01:22:57 |
| 2008 | Benjamin Noad | 01:09:48 | Tina Oldershaw | 01:23:12 |
| 2007 | William Levett | 01:11:15 | Emma Dennis | 01:27:55 |
| 2006 | Julian Rendall | 01:13:56 | Miranda Heathcote | 01:24:25 |
| 2004 | Julian Rendall | 01:12:51 | Tina Oldershaw | 01:25:10 |
| 2003 | Allan Lee | 01:12:31 | Tina Oldershaw | 01:25:33 |
| 2002 | Andrew Graffin | 01:10:39 | Kristina Farr | 01:26:24 |
| 2001 | Darrell Smith | 01:11:26 | Andrea Green | 01:15:36 |
| 2000 | Scott McDonald | 01:13:42 | Tina Oldershaw | 01:20:13 |
| 1999 | Barry Royden | 01:05:33 | Janice Moorkite | 01:23:20 |
Prizes and Trophies
The final prize list for 2024 will be:
- Trophies and medals, will be given to all category winners. (Additionally, there will be vouchers for entries to the 2025 Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Male and Female overall).
- 1st M40-49
- 1st M50-59
- 1st M60-69
- 1st M70+
- 1st F35-44
- 1st F45-54
- 1st F55-64
- 1st F65+
- 1st UKA affiliated club teams (first 3 to score)
NOTE: In the case of a veteran runner winning an overall race prize, both prizes will be awarded to that runner. A runner may only win a prize in their OWN age category as well as an overall prize. Chip times will be used for all categories.
Our huge thanks go out to ALL the sponsors and supporters of the 2024 ‘Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon’.
FAQ
Organisation
Q: What is the race website address where I can find more information and more up-to-date announcements?
A: This website (https://www.twharriers.org.uk) contains all of the up-to-date information on the Half Marathon page.
Q: Who organises the race?
A: The race is organised by volunteers from Tunbridge Wells Harriers.
Q: When and where is the race being held?
A: The Hendy Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon takes place on Sunday 18th February 2024 at 9.00am. Race HQ is the Sports Hall section of the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre and the race start and finish are nearby.
Race entry
Q: When do entries open?
A: Entries opened in September and will remain open until all places are taken or the closing date in mid-February 2023 is reached.
Q: How do I enter?
A: Entries are open online. See the link at the top of this page
Q: How do I enter if I have a complimentary place?
A: Contact the Race Organisers at twhalf23@gmail.com if you have a complimentary place. You will be given more information on what to do.
Q: How much does it cost to enter?
Entry Fees:
Super Early Bird (16th Sept – 30th Sept)
£25 affiliated / £27 unaffiliated
Early Bird (1st Oct – 30th Nov):
£28 affiliated / £30 unaffiliated
Standard (From 1st Dec):
£30 affiliated / £32 unaffiliated
On The Day Entry Fees (Subject to availability):
Half Marathon race: £35
T-Shirts:
New for 2024 – Optional race t-shirt, cheaper entry fee!
To keep costs down for the event and improve sustainability, technical race t-shirts will be an optional add on to your entry fee this year. Despite rising costs, entry fees are being held in line with those for 2023.
Q: When will I get my number and other entry information?
A: As soon as you pay for the event you will receive a confirmation email. You will not receive your race number or other race paperwork, this will be available for collection in the week prior.
Your race number, which includes chip timing, will be available for collection during the week prior to the race see the top of the page
Please retain your confirmation email as a reminder that you have entered.
Q: Is it necessary to register on the day?
A: No, further registration is not necessary after the initial entry application has been made.
Q: What is the minimum age to enter the race?
A: All competitors must be at least 17 years of age on 18th February 2024. There is no maximum age!
Q: Do I need to be a club runner to enter this event?
A: No, the race is open to affiliated club runners and non-club runners.
Q: Are there other restrictions on entry?
A: As this is a hilly course, we regret that it is not suitable for wheelchair athletes. Dogs or buggies are also not permitted, and runners must not be accompanied or followed by others on cycles. Additionally, you should be able to complete the race in 3 hours max.
Q: Can I enter on the day of the race?
A: The race has sold out in advance over past years. This being the case there will be no entries on the day, but if not sold out limited places may be available on the day.
Participants
Q: How much running experience do I need to run this race?
A: The race is open to all but individuals need to bear in mind that the course is 13.1 miles long and is undulating and in two particular parts, is fairly steep and hilly. This particular half marathon is a fairly challenging course and runners should judge for themselves if they have run enough and are sufficiently trained for the event. Beginners are welcome but we ask that you do not walk or run the course if you do not expect to finish in under 3 hours.
Q: Why is there a limit of 3 hours for the event?
A: Firstly to ensure that those who enter are sufficiently fit enough to complete the event and secondly that we cannot keep roads closed for longer than this. Road closures are a necessary and important part of the event’s organisation but we do not wish to inconvenience road users for any longer than is absolutely necessary. Slower runners will therefore be directed to the pavement at Langton Green after approx. 2.5 hours.
Q: Do you issue runners’ instructions?
A: Yes, these are emailed to all runners before the event with any other essential information. A copy will also be available on the website for you to download.
Q: Do I need to wear special kit?
A: No, your normal running clothing is normally sufficient, but competitors should be mindful that the event could experience inclement conditions and dress accordingly. As a general piece of advice, it is not advisable to run any race in new running shoes. The course is all on-road so normal running shoes only are required; there is no off-road element.
Q: Do I need to wear my running club vest?
A: If you have entered as an affiliated competitor you should wear your registered club vest.
Q: Where do I pin my race number?
A: Your race number should be pinned to the front of your running vest and must be visible throughout the race.
Health and Safety
Q: Will I be safe?
A: The safety of our runners is paramount and we ensure this by arranging partial road closures, marshalling the race in many positions around the course, providing first aid, arranging a quick and sophisticated communications system to call for emergency services as required, and by giving race instructions to all participants.
Q: I have a medical condition, should I notify you of this?
A: If your medical condition could influence any emergency treatment that you may need in the event of you feeling ill during the race, then you should tell us on your entry; complete the back of the race number as well with all the relevant details and advise in the appropriate section when you enter. If you are unsure of your fitness to run, please see www.runnersmedicalresource.com for medical advice related to running.
Q: Am I allowed to run with a personal music player?
A: Runners cannot wear personal headphones/earphones while participating in this race. This is now a UKA Rule by which we are governed. Running whilst wearing headphones/earphones significantly reduces your ability to hear traffic, individual vehicles, instructions and warnings from the police, marshals and other people, and generally distract your attention, increasing the risk of accident or injury to yourself and possibly other people. If despite this advice you choose to participate in the race using such a device and are asked to remove them but ignore you accept full responsibility for your own safety and for the safety of anyone else who may be affected by your acts or omissions. You may as a result be disqualified from the event and not receive a finishing medal or completion time.
Course
Q: What is the course?
A: The race is a 13.1 miles single lap testing course starting and finishing near the Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre. Full details of the course can be found here, but in summary, the course goes through Southborough, Bidborough, Penshurst, Fordcombe, Langton Green and Tunbridge Wells. It is all on-road and there will be comprehensive road closures and other security measures in place.
Q: Is the course distance accurate?
Yes: it is the half marathon distance of 13 miles 192½ yards. The course has been measured by the IAAF recognised method of course measurement and has received a certificate of course accuracy from the Association of UK Course Measurers. Most runners realise the importance of having courses accurately measured in order to make comparisons of times sensible, and the recognised method of measurement ensures an accuracy of 10m in every 10km. This is more accurate than a car odometer and most GPS’s, and the method also adds a factor to ensure that the course is not short in order to make PBs and records possible
Q: Will there be pacers?
A: Yes, there are plans to organise pace groups for sub 1.30, sub 1.40, sub 1.50, sub 2.00, sub 2.10 and sub 2.20. Due to the hilly nature of the course, the pace will vary and won’t be on ‘minute mile pace’. The start area will be marked with where to congregate for expected finish times; pacers will be easily identifiable.
Q: Do I get a drink on the course?
A: Yes, there will be numerous water stations on the course, including the finish. See the race website for exact locations. As the race is a half marathon all runners are encouraged to drink during the run whatever the weather.
Race HQ
Q: How soon will the results be made available?
A: Race results are made available on the day; printed sheets are posted on the wall at Race HQ. Full race results and all relevant details will be available on the race website normally within 24 hours of the event and on the Nice-Work website.
Q: Can I find out the race results from previous years?
A: See the race website for a link to the results from previous years.
Q: Do I receive a medal for finishing the race?
A: Yes, specially designed bespoke medals are given to all runners who complete the race as well as water and something to eat. One free technical t-shirt is also given to each runner; these can be collected before or after the race from Race HQ. Do not forget to collect on the day of the race as they cannot be sent to you after the race. A variety of sizes will be made available and these can be tried, queues and timing permitted. There will also be facilities to have your medal engraved with your time at Race HQ.
Q: Are there prizes?
A: Yes there are prizes for 1st male and female, 2nd male and female, 3rd male and female, age category prizes, and trophies to UKA affiliated clubs of 1st, overall male and female teams.
Q: Is car parking available?
A: Please note that there is no parking at Race HQ, only drop-off. However, a number of local schools and other organisations are kindly allowing us to use their facilities on race day (see map). Full details can be found in the race instructions and up-to-date information will also be posted on the website closer to race day. Please do not park in front of residents’ drives and so on, particularly along Reynolds Lane.
Q: Are there toilets at the event?
A: There will be plenty of toilets at Race HQ but none on the course. Please allow plenty of time to use the conveniences ahead of the race start to avoid last-minute bunching of runners at the back of the start area. We allow one toilet for every 50 runners, plus additional urinals for the male runners. Please do use the toilets and allow plenty of time to do so, we will disqualify any runner seen urinating in residents’ gardens close to the start area.
Q: Are there changing facilities at the event?
A: Yes, there are male and female changing rooms at the Race HQ, St John’s Sport Centre but unfortunately the sports centre do not allow us to use their showers due to limited water supply and pressure on the heating system. However, space is limited and it would be most helpful if non-runners stayed away from the changing areas. Supporters can use the separate toilets also located at St John’s Sports Centre.
Q: Is there a bag drop facility?
A: Yes there is a supervised bag drop facility at race HQ. Ensure you remember to tag your baggage with your race number on it. Please only drop one bag per runner. Please allow plenty of time to use the bag drop facility, there is always a queue and it is not advisable to hang on to your belongings to the last possible moment.
Q: Will there be refreshments available?
A: Yes, there will be a variety of refreshment providers at Race HQ for use by runners and supporters.
Q: Will there be childcare available?
A: Unfortunately there will be no childcare.
Withdrawing from the Race
Q: Can I withdraw from the race?
A: Yes you can but we are unable to give refunds as the financing of the race is based on the total number of runners that we can accommodate on the course. As all our surplus funds are donated to charity we cannot issue refunds. It is your choice to run or not once you have entered but we are unable to refund the entry fee if you withdraw.
Q: Can I transfer my entry to somebody if I withdraw from the race?
A: Under NO circumstances can race numbers be transferred to another runner without the knowledge of the organisers. There are two very good reasons for this.
Firstly, and most importantly, for health and safety reasons. If a runner is injured or falls ill during a race we will have the wrong personal details for them. Secondly, the runner’s result and position in the race will not be a true reflection of their ability and can seriously skew the final results. In 2011 we disqualified a male runner who had used a race number of a female friend, finishing the race placed as 4th female. Clearly, this is unacceptable. However we are able to offer some flexibility here and will allow transfers for injured runners only; these must be complete by TBC.
No transfers will be allowed after midnight on that day. Contact the Race Organisers on twhalf23@gmail.com if you need to effect a transfer due to injury; you will be given more information on what to do.
Q: If I withdraw from the race can I transfer my entry to 2025 or any other future event?
A: No. The financing for each race is separate and so we cannot allow transfers between events.
Sponsors
Q: Who are the sponsors?
A: The title sponsor for the 2024 race is Hendy in Tunbridge Wells who we are very proud to be associated with. The details of other sponsors will be made available on the race website and in the race instructions.
Q: Why are sponsors necessary?
A: Without race sponsors, the entry fee would be significantly higher and there would not be medals and other items that we are able to give to deserving runners. The costs of staging this race event, like all others, are very high and so the significant sums given by sponsors enable us to price the event for runners at a more sensible level.
Charity
Q: Which charities are being supported?
A: Runners can enter and run on behalf of any charity they choose but the surplus from this race will be donated to local Tunbridge Wells Charities and good causes. You may like to consider raising funds for our chosen charity through your own additional sponsorship. If you raise money for charity you may only do so through sponsorship, there are a number of very useful websites through which you can request sponsorship from friends and family. Other forms of raising money are not encouraged, for example rattling a bucket around Race HQ or on the course.
Supporters
Q: Can I bring supporters to the event?
A: Of course, we welcome as much support as possible and there is plenty of space at the start and finish area for enthusiastic support as well as the designated ‘spectator spot’ at Lifestyle, Langton Road, Tunbridge Wells where there will be a great atmosphere. Much of the on-road event however, is on country lanes where there are no pavements and so supporters are discouraged to stand around in these areas for their own safety as well as that of the runners. Apart from the start / finish area there is plenty of supporting space in Southborough, parts of Bidborough, Penshurst Village, Fordcombe Village, Langton Green Village and Tunbridge Wells Town Centre. In terms of your supporters getting to their chosen vantage points please note that due to traffic conditions, vehicular access to the course is only possible in a clockwise direction around the race circuit – see the race website for full details.
Weather
Q: What is the weather forecast for the event?
A: Please check on-line weather forecasts closer to race day and the race website in case of cancellation due to adverse weather.
Cancellation of the Race
Q: How will I be notified if the race is cancelled?
A: In the unlikely event that the race is cancelled ahead of race day an announcement will be made on the race website and as far as possible runners will be notified on an individual basis through emails, texts and local press. If the race is cancelled on race day the only way of notification will be through the race website. We will keep you up to date via a series of emails and messages on the run up to the race.
Q: Can I have a refund?
A: In the case of abandonment or cancellation of the race by reason of unusually bad weather, the impossibility or danger of allowing the race to proceed, compliance with legal, police, or other public authority requirements or advice, or other exceptional circumstances outside the control of Tunbridge Wells Harriers and /or considered by the Race Director or Race Referee in their sole discretion to be sufficient, runners will not be entitled to the return of entry fee or any refund. Any net surplus made by the race is passed on to charity.
Other Questions
Q: My question has not been answered, where do I go now?
A: Please check these FAQs again, see the race website or contact the Race Director via twhalf23@gmail.com
Support Around the Course
There are many places along the route from which to support the runners.
Please be aware of road closures and plan your viewing accordingly!
The Start (9:00am)
The Race HQ is in the Sports Hall of Fusion Tunbridge Wells Sports Centre, St John’s Road. The Race Expo is in the hall, where runners can visit our sponsors and partners for discounts, offers and advice.
The race start is further north along St John’s Road – race marshals will guide you on the day.
Southborough Common (1 mile)
Runners will pass this area between 9:03 and 9:20.
Penshurst (Mile 5)
The first runner should pass here at 9.25, with the majority through by 10.00 and the last runner by 10.20.
Spring Hill (Mile 6.5) and Fordcombe (Mile 7.5)
The first runner should pass here at 9.35, with the majority through by 10.20 and the last runner by 11.00.
This is the toughest section of the course and the runners need your support! Cheer the runners on from outside the Chafford Arms.
Langton Green (Mile 9)
The first runner should pass The Hare at 9.45, with the majority through by 10.40 and the last runner by 11.20.
Rusthall Cricket Club (Mile 10.5)
The first runner should pass here at 9.55, with the majority through by 11.10 and the last runner by 12.00
This is a pleasant open area where children can run around and there are a few benches for spectators to sit on.
Hendy (Mile 11.0)
The first runner should pass here just before 10.00, with the majority through by 11.20 and the last runner by 12.15.
The Finish Mile (13.1)
The first runner will have to get to the finish by 10.04 (and 15 seconds!) to break the course record.
The runners need lots of support along the last mile on St John’s Road, all the way up to the finish at Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys. There are several cafés, bars and shops along this stretch of the course.