Iconic Potters ‘Arf Marathon to return in Autumn 2024

A popular half marathon is set to return to Stoke-on-Trent with a new lease of life.

The iconic Potters ‘Arf marathon, which is in its 19^th year will return to the city on Sunday, September 29, 2024.

Following a successful tender process, the 2024 marathon will be delivered by HS Sports in conjunction with Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All. Both organisations have been involved in delivering some of the country’s largest sporting events and bring a wealth of experience in managing and organising race events.

Last year’s event saw over 1,700 participants take part, from seasoned runners to junior racers.

Councillor Jane Ashworth, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The Potters ‘Arf is one of the most unique, community-spirited races in the UK. It has amazing support right across the city and always has a great atmosphere.

“It also raises thousands of pounds for local charities – including UHNM Charity, which provides millions of pounds in additional funding for University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, Douglas Macmillan Hospice, who support adults and children with life limiting illnesses and The Alice Charity – who work to improve the lives of families in crisis.

“The event is aimed at people of all abilities and is the perfect way to become a new you in 2024 and start training for now.”

HS Sports and Run For All jointly said: “Having already established a successful working partnership in the delivery of similar mass participation events across multiple local authorities in England, HS Sports in conjunction with Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Stoke-on-Trent City Council to deliver the prestigious Potters ‘Arf. 

“Collaboratively, we plan to embed the knowledge and experience of event planning and delivery which Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All are known for in this sector, alongside the local knowledge and technical expertise on hand from HS Sports to make sure the whole event continues to be a success.  Our aim is to work with the council and other key stakeholders to take the event to the next level, whilst continuing to ensure that the Potters ‘Arf holds its place as one of the best within the local areas running events calendar.” 

More details on when registrations will open will be available over the coming weeks.