The second edition of the ABP Barry Island 10K returns to the iconic seaside location on Sunday after the success of the inaugural event last year.
The sold-out 10K race will bring a festival of running to the popular summertime hotspot and will form a key part of this summer’s sporting Barry Island Weekender.
Close to 3,500 runners are set to take on the challenging but scenic course, which takes in some of the town’s recognisable landmarks, including Whitmore Bay, the Knap and Romilly Park along a route devised by double Olympic marathon runner Steve Brace.
What time will it start?
The main race gets underway at 10AM, but there is something for all ages on a festival day of running.
The first of two popular family fun runs kicks off the festival of running at 12:20 before the second at 13:00. There is also a 50m toddler dash in between at 12:40 for kids taking their first steps at a mass-participation event. Entries for the toddler dash are available fn the day with a suggested £2 donation to Tŷ Hafan, who are the lead charity partner to the ABP Barry Island 10K.
Starting pens for the 10K open at 9:45AM, so runners are urged to leave plenty of time to make it to Barry Island.
What’s the route?
The route takes participants from the promenade through Barry’s regenerated retail area before arching around the iconic Barry Docks Offices building. After tackling the race’s only significant climb on Subway Road, runners will go down Broad Street, pass Barry train station and head into Romilly Park.
Scenic views of the Bristol Channel and Porthkerry Country Park await the runners at the 6K mark. They will then take in the picturesque Knap pebble beach and head up The Parade before getting back to the Island to take on the final 2K.
Runners will pass the roaring crowds before a loop of the amusement centre and a downhill finish alongside the gardens on Friars Road.
Where can I leave my baggage?
A designated baggage drop-off will be located adjacent to the Event Village and will be clearly signposted. It opens at 08:45 and closes at 12:30.
Bags can be collected after the race upon receipt of your runner number. Only runners and staff will have access to this area which will be manned by security staff who may ask to check your bags.
What do I need at the start?
In your pack you will find a timing chip and your running number. The chip will contain your running number and will allow friends and family to track your progress on the Run 4 Wales app, which can be downloaded on IOS or Android. Also ensure your running number is pinned to the front of your top and that you’ve filled in the emergency contact details on the back.
Where is the Race Village?
The race village is located along the promenade overlooking Whitmore Bay. Event Village is perfect for chilling out post-race, or a day out with your family.
There’ll be live music and entertainment, a photo wall for post-race selfies, deckchairs, a tasty selection of street food and a number of retailers and exhibitors including
- Healthspan – Learn more about Run 4 Wales’ official vitamin and supplements partner.
- Ty Hafan – come learn more about the great work of our charity partner Ty Hafan.
- Scimitar Sports – A wide range of bespoke race merchandise is available from Run 4 Wales’ official sportswear parter Scimitar Sports.
- Come & Try Sports with Welsh Athletics
- Pedal Emporium – Bubbles & Children’s Games
- Thirsty Elephant Coffee
- Bobble Hats
- Massage
- Bwydiful Burgers
Will there be drinks available on the way round?
Brecon Carreg will be hydrating runners at a water station at the 5km mark and finish.
Where can I park on race day?
A number of official car parks will be in operation for the ABP Barry Island 10K, with park and walk or park and ride options available.
Runners will need to arrive to the car park of your choice by 08:30 am to avoid road closures.
For more information visit www.barryisland.co.uk/travel-parking/.
Will there be road closures?
To facilitate the safe passage of participants, it will be necessary to implement road closures along the route, which have been agreed with the Vale of Glamorgan Council. The route has been designed to keep disruption to residents and businesses to a minimum. We work closely with the emergency services, whose access to the route will not be affected by the event. To see a full road closure map, head to barryisland10k.co.uk/road-closures/
Can I run with headphones in?
The organisers advise against running with headphones, as they will be unable to hear marshals should an emergency vehicle need to makes it way onto the course.
What will the weather be like?
Compared to last year’s scorching weather, conditions this time around will be cooler with a chance of rain. The overcast forecast will make for quick times, but temperatures could still reach around 21c.
It’s essential to stay hydrated not only on race day, but in the lead up to Sunday. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water when doing any exercise this week. Dehydration is not just a result of not drinking enough on one day, but a result of not taking on enough fluids over an accumulation of days.
Where will I get my commemorative T-shirt?
All runners will receive a commemorative t-shirt and medal when they finish the race. The size is clearly marked on runners’ race numbers, so listen to organisers to ensure you get a t-shirt that fits.