2026 Essar Chester Half Marathon

Join us at the 2026 Essar Chester Half Marathon - 17th May 2026 

The 2026 Essar Chester Half Marathon on 17th May marks the 44th edition of this historic award winning race. We are also hosting a qualifier for the England Athletics Age Group Masters Championships.

The event boasts a lively city centre start and finish, with a route that takes in all the city centre sights, surrounding picturesque countryside and all the enthusiasm you could ask for from the Cestrian supporters who line the course to cheer you on.

WHATEVER YOUR REASON FOR RUNNING, WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE GREATNESS

Before race day you'll receive:

Access to training plans to support your running journey

Support and advice, including free training runs to keep you motivated

Your personalised race pack including your race number and timing chip sent to you in the post (runners from outside the UK need to collect their race numbers from our Help Desk on race weekend)

Exclusive offers and competitions from our sponsors right from the moment you sign up

Access to our friendly and supportive social community on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, who are happy to answer any of your running queries 

FREE runner to runner transfers - should you no longer be able to take part

ON RACE DAY you'll experience all the fitness and mental health benefits associated with running, plus you'll get:

A quality technical T-shirt, bespoke medal and a goody bag packed with post race nutrition when you finish, OR, the option to become a Green Runner and instead of receiving your medal, T-shirt and goody bag, we will donate the cost of these to our official race charity

A fantastic race atmosphere 

Prizes awarded for the top 3 men and women and the winners of each age group

FREE official race photos!

Access to our runners Help Desk for any last minute queries or transfers

A safe running environment 

On course hydration and nutrition for refuelling 

Lots of medical support throughout the course should you need assistance

Access to our tracking website so all your supporters can track your live progress