The Great Welsh Marathon is moving to Swansea, with the established race set to make the city its new home from 2027. Organisers are targeting 7,500 runners and have set their sights on creating Wales' largest city marathon.
The event will take place on Sunday, October 17 next year. The route will showcase Swansea's coastline, landmarks, heritage and communities. The move will allow the marathon, which previously started and finished at Pembrey Country Park, to grow significantly.
New Opportunities and Inclusivity
Organisers say the relocation will create more opportunities for charity fundraising and make the event more inclusive through the introduction of a wheelchair race. David Martin-Jewell, founder of Front Runner Events, said: "We have had the ambition to bring the Great Welsh to Swansea for many years, so it is with much excitement we are finally in a position to do so."
"Moving to Swansea gives us the opportunity to take the marathon to another level while creating something that can showcase the city, and Wales to a much bigger audience."
Council Backing and Economic Impact
Leader of Swansea Council Rob Stewart added: "Swansea has a proud track record of hosting major sporting and cultural events and we are delighted to welcome the Great Welsh Marathon to the city."
"A marathon of this scale will bring great opportunities for local businesses, hospitality and tourism, while showcasing Swansea and Swansea Bay to visitors from across the UK and overseas."
"Events like IRONMAN 70.3 and the Wales Airshow have created significant economic benefits for jobs and the wider community and this new event on our sporting calendar will undoubtedly add to this success."
Further details, including the full route, will be announced in the coming months.
