The 2025 Great Cumbrian Run
The 2025 Great Cumbrian Run, held on Sunday 5th October, once again transformed the city of Carlisle into a vibrant celebration of athleticism, community, and charity. Now in its 41st year, the event has long been regarded as one of Cumbria’s premier running occasions, drawing participants from across the county and beyond. Organised by Better, in partnership with Sport in Action, The Great Cumbrian Run has become more than just a race, it is a tradition that unites runners, volunteers, and spectators in a spirit of shared endeavour.
This year’s event featured several race categories designed to cater to runners of all ages and abilities. The headline Half Marathon remained the main attraction, challenging athletes to complete 13.1 miles through Carlisle’s streets, parks, and countryside. Alongside it, a popular 10 km race provided a shorter yet equally spirited contest, while the fun run 3.1 miles and the family 1-mile event ensured the day had its inclusive atmosphere. The Half Marathon began at 9:00 a.m. from Mayor’s Drive near The Sheepmount Athletics Stadium, following a route through the city and out towards Rickerby Park, where the 10k and Half marathon separated and the half marathon continued to complete a loop of Houghton, then on to Linstock before returning to Rickerby Park and then heading for a finish on the track at The Sheepmount. The route offered a blend of flat roads and gentle undulations - challenging enough for seasoned runners yet manageable for those seeking a new personal milestone, of which there were many.
Despite Storm Amy rolling through the area in the lead up to the race, the weather on the day was mild. Cool air and overcast skies made for comfortable endurance racing, and spectators lined much of the course, their encouragement sounding throughout the morning. The atmosphere was festive but focused, with the sound of over 1500 runners feet echoing through Carlisle’s streets.
As always, the event had a strong charitable dimension. The 2025 edition supported several local organisations including Every Life Matters, which focuses on suicide prevention and bereavement support; Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, providing adult and children’s hospice care; Hospice at Home Carlisle & North Lakeland; and ICAAN. Many runners wore the colours of their chosen charities, transforming their physical challenge into a platform for raising both awareness and funds. This commitment to community welfare remains a defining feature of the Great Cumbrian Run and reflects its enduring value to the people of Cumbria.
The day was marked by outstanding athletic performances across all categories. In the Half Marathon, local athlete Marc Brown delivered a commanding performance to take first place in the men’s race with a time of 1 hour 8 minutes 10 seconds. He was followed by Stefanos Stephanou in second place with 1 hour 16 minutes 12 seconds, and Paul Lowry, who finished third in 1 hour 17 minutes 56 seconds. In the women’s division, Emma Neil emerged victorious, finishing in 1 hour 22 minutes 25 seconds. She was closely followed by Saddie Addison in 1 hour 25 minutes 58 seconds, and Annabel Starkie, who secured third place with an impressive 1 hour 29 minutes 19 seconds.
The 10 km race also showcased remarkable performances. Nathan Postill of Border Harriers & AC took the men’s title in a blistering 32 minutes 47 seconds, ahead of Arthur Glaves of Lancaster & Morecambe AC (34:05) and Davey Thompson (35:52). In the women’s race, Kathryn Metcalfe produced an outstanding run to claim victory in 42 minutes 12 seconds, followed by Claire Peace (42:56) and Juliet Eyre (44:38). The high calibre of these performances highlighted the competitive spirit of the event while underscoring the depth of local running talent.
Despite the elite times at the front, the event’s inclusive ethos ensured that every participant’s effort was celebrated. Many runners achieved personal bests, while others simply revelled in the chance to complete the course and experience the camaraderie that defines community running events. The finish line at The Sheepmount Stadium provided a fittingly triumphant atmosphere: elated runners crossed the line to applause, collected their medals, and shared stories of determination and achievement.
Ultimately, the Great Cumbrian Run remains much more than an athletic contest. It is a celebration of community, inclusion and resilience, and generosity. The 2025 edition encapsulated everything that makes the event special: dedicated runners, supportive spectators, and a shared commitment to local causes. The impressive victories of Marc Brown, Alison Matthews, Nathan Postill, and Kathryn Metcalfe epitomised the competitive excellence on display, while the participation of hundreds of others reflected the event’s welcoming and inclusive spirit.