Brighton Half Marathon 2014: Race review

After days of strong winds and heavy rain, the sun was shining on Brighton Half Marathon (Sunday 16th February), and the runners experienced perfect running conditions with clear blue skies and a light breeze.

The Brighton Half Marathon is organised by The Sussex Beacon, a local HIV charity, and saw 6,996 runners on the start line with Paul Martelletti and Sarah Hill claiming the winning titles.

A large number of spectators were lining the streets of Brighton & Hove to cheer on the runners and to show their support for the event.

Paul Martelletti (Victoria Park Harriers / Run-fast) took the lead from the start and successfully defended his title from 2013 by finishing in a time of 01:05:52, over one minute ahead of runner up Tom Aldred of London Heathside and over a minute and half faster than his winning time last year.

In a sprint finish Paolo Natali, of ATL Firenze Marathon, beat Kevin Rojas of Brighton & Hove AC and secured 3rd place in a time of 01:08:08.

Sarah Hill of Farnham Runners was dominating the women’s field and secured the win in a time of 01:18:43, ahead of Deidre McDermot who crossed the finish line in 01:20:15.

Claire Grima of Hercules Wimbledon came third in a time of 01:20:45.

The 1 mile Youth Races, which started and finished at the same point as the main race, saw 393 young runners of all levels and abilities take part across four age categories, with the biggest number of runners in the 7 – 10 years age category.

The full results including the results of the Youth Races can be found on www.brightonhalfmarathon.com.

By Ceirney Eddie