THE success of the first three editions of the ABP Newport Wales marathon means the flagship sporting event will be staying in the city.

Organisers Run 4 Wales and Newport City Council originally signed a three-year agreement for the event – but this was carried over into a fourth year after the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of last year's racing.

Although last weekend's was the last under this agreement, the overwhelmingly positive response to the marathon, and the benefits it has brought to the city, means its future in Newport has been sealed.

Run 4 Wales chief executive Matt Newman praised the quality of the first three Newport marathons and is already looking ahead to the 2022 edition.

“We’ve had to be patient over the past 18 months, but the third edition of the ABP Newport Wales Marathon was certainly worth the wait," he said. "The event continues to go from strength to strength, and we’re delighted that it is set to continue beyond the original three years agreed with Newport City Council and the Welsh Government when it was launched for 2018.

“A date for the next edition of the race will be announced in due course.”

South Wales Argus: Paulos Surafel, the 2021 winner of the ABP Newport Wales 10k men's race. Picture: Huw Evans Picture AgencyPaulos Surafel, the 2021 winner of the ABP Newport Wales 10k men's race. Picture: Huw Evans Picture Agency

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Newport City Council's leader, Cllr Jane Mudd, said she was "delighted that, with the council’s support, Newport will continue to host this popular and prestigious event".

She added: “As well as the economic benefits it brings to the city – attracting participants and spectators from around the country – it also raises Newport’s profile and confirms our reputation for hosting major sporting events."

Cllr Mudd, who sounded the air horn to start the 2021 marathon, described the event as "a fantastic, feel-good day that creates a real buzz and is now very much part of the Newport events calendar, so we are very happy to see it continue".

There have also been warm words for the Newport event from some of last weekend's race winners, including men's marathon gold medallist Adam Bowden, who praised the "uplifting" crowd, and women's marathon champion Rebecca Gallop, who said she was "definitely coming back" to race here again.

South Wales Argus: Adam Bowden (centre), the 2021 men's winner of the ABP Newport Wales marathon, with second-placed Ollie Garrod (left) and third-placed Mark Worringham. Picture: Huw Evans Picture AgencyAdam Bowden (centre), the 2021 men's winner of the ABP Newport Wales marathon, with second-placed Ollie Garrod (left) and third-placed Mark Worringham. Picture: Huw Evans Picture Agency

Simon Brown, Wales divisional port manager for race sponsors ABP (Associated British Ports), said the ABP Newport Wales marathon and 10k was "much more than a run".

"It is a real community occasion," he added. "I am really pleased that our efforts in supporting the race provide such positive opportunities. The event not only brings people together in their shared challenge but also benefits so many charities and local businesses.”