The biggest ever Oxford Half Marathon took over the city on Sunday 12 October, with more than 13,000 runners filling Oxford’s historic streets for the sold-out event.
Entries for this year’s race sold out in record time back in January — the third consecutive year the Oxford Half has reached capacity months ahead of race day. Organised by Motiv Sports UK, the half marathon has become one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, drawing runners and supporters from across the UK.
This year’s edition has already raised more than £1.2 million for charity, supporting 18 official charity partners, including national organisations such as Cancer Research UK, Alzheimer’s Society, and Macmillan Cancer Support, alongside local causes like Helen & Douglas House, Thames Valley Air Ambulance, and SSNAP (Supporting Sick Newborns and their Parents).
Runners enjoyed a newly improved route designed to enhance the race-day experience for participants, spectators, and local businesses. Starting and finishing on Mansfield Road, the course showcased Oxford’s most iconic landmarks — including the Bodleian Library, Sheldonian Theatre, and Radcliffe Camera — while passing many of the University’s most recognisable college buildings.
University Parks once again hosted the bustling event village, featuring activities, refreshments, and entertainment for runners and supporters alike.
Race results
Top three finishers – Female
- Charlie Arnell – 01:15:01
- Sarah Forbes-Smith – 01:17:40
- Olivia Doran – 01:17:45
Top three finishers – Male
- George Grassly – 01:05:31
- James Ellis – 01:08:10
- Alex Miell-Ingram – 01:09:00
Top three finishers – Wheelchair
- Gary Cooper – 01:10:12
- Danny Gordon – 01:13:34
- Roz Delap – 01:26:25
Full results are available on Oxford Half website.
Emily Whitaker, Head of Event Operations at Motiv Sports UK, said:
“It’s been incredible to see the Oxford Half continue to grow, selling out in record time for the third consecutive year. The atmosphere on the streets today captured everything that makes this event so special — community spirit, determination, and generosity.
We’re proud to have supported runners in raising over £1.2m for charity, and we’re thrilled that this year’s route improvements helped make the experience even better for everyone involved.”
Tickets for next year’s Oxford Half will go on sale shortly after this year’s race, with another quick sell-out expected.
