THE COUNTDOWN to the next Newport half marathon is on.

Runners will start the Admiral City of Newport Half Marathon outside the University of South Wales campus at 9am on Sunday, March 3.

The 13-mile route will take them to Caerleon, picking up the cycle paths and boardwalk along the river Usk.

En route back to the city centre, they will pass through Shaftesbury, before the final three-mile stretch along riverside paths.

Emma Saysell, chief executive of St Davids Hospice Care, said: “We are delighted to be organising the City of Newport Half Marathon for 2024. The event raises significant funds for the Hospice to continue to provide vital, free Hospice Care to the local community.

“We hope this event will the biggest ever and we are indebted to Admiral, Newport City Council and the University of South Wales for their continued support.”

South Wales Argus: The route takes runners over four bridges (Image: Google)The route takes runners over four bridges (Image: Google) (Image: Google)

Insurance company Admiral, who are once again title sponsors of the race, expect more than 100 staff members to take part in March.

Organisers say that the event is an ideal time to start a running year or prepare for a full marathon later in the spring.

For those not taking part in the race, there are other ways to get involved through volunteering or sponsoring.

“We receive very positive feedback about the route of the half,” said Race Director Christine Vorrés. “Whilst it is a little technical with many twists and turns it is also very interesting and well supported.

“As a lot of the route follows the river Usk the participants actually run over four bridges – Newport Bridge, the SDR Bridge, the Pedestrian Bridge and Caerleon Bridge.

“The spectators and supporters are brilliant at cheering the runners along.”

For more information visit www.cityofnewporthalfmarathon.com or call 01633 851051.

All proceeds are used to support hospice care in south east Wales.