Don’t give up your goal running Cardiff Half 2026
All spaces into the 2026 Cardiff Half Marathon have now been secured – with results landing today.
Due to increasing demand, entry into next year’s race was via ballot for the first time – and saw record levels of interest with five times more applicants than the number of spaces available.
All general entries and skip the ballot options are now snapped up, and applicants will be sent an email confirming whether they have been successful or unsuccessful by the end of the day.
However, those who weren’t successful in securing a spot needn’t worry as there’s still a chance to be on the start line of next year’s race.
Matt Newman, Chief Executive at event organisers Run 4 Wales, said: “It’s been incredible to see how much the Cardiff Half Marathon has grown over the years.
“With all general entry spaces now taken by the ballot, and results being emailed today, we understand some people may be disappointed to not have secured a spot this time. However, there’s still a number of ways to get involved whether that’s running for an official charity, securing a space with a tour operator or taking on the business challenge.
“We’re expecting these spaces top sell out fast so we’d encourage people to sign up quickly, and we look forward to welcoming all our runners at next year’s race.”
Run for charity
Why not make your miles matter by choosing to run for the event’s lead charity NSPCC or one of its other official charity partners? Not only will you get to experience the incredible race day atmosphere, but you’ll also be doing so by supporting a cause close to your heart. These spaces sell out quickly, so make sure you’re quick if you want to take part.
Take a tour
For international runners looking to take part from overseas, book through one of the event’s official tour operators for guaranteed race entry as part of a travel package to the Welsh capital.
Workplace work out
Alternatively, you can take on the Cardiff Half by entering the Business Challenge with your colleagues, turning it into a fun and competitive team event. Entering the Business Challenge is the perfect opportunity for team building or CSR activity.
Take on another challenge
If these options aren’t suitable, you could always try another event in the R4W group:
- Check out the ABP Newport Marathon Festival on Sunday 19 April – try an alternative half marathon or double your distance with 26.2 and 13.1 mile options!
- Test your fitness throughout the year with the R4W 10K Series – with races in Cardiff, Newport, Porthcawl and Barry Island to keep you motivated all season.
- Find trail running paradise on the south Wales coast at Rabbit Run Wales on Saturday 18 July. Take on stunning trails, hills, valleys, a river crossing, and the chance to experience a tumble down the Big Dipper, the highest sand dune in Wales.
- Now part of the R4W Group, Always Aim High Events have some incredible half marathon and trail running alternatives to the Cardiff Half Marathon including the Jones O Gymru Anglesey Half Marathon and Snowdonia Trail Marathon Eryri (including 10K and half marathon options).
- Delivered by R4W in partnership with London Marathon Events, the GetPRO Bath Half is one of the UK’s most prestigious half marathons. The 2026 event takes place on Sunday 15 March and entries are about to sell out!