Cardiff, Wales — The 2025 edition of the Oysho Cardiff Half Marathon was a historic day. Not only did it become the largest in its history, with more than 29,000 registered participants and the highest number of international runners, but it also set a new men’s course record.

A festive atmosphere despite the wind

Despite the windy conditions, enthusiasm remained high among the runners, who included both elites and thousands of fans and fundraisers. The course offered a sightseeing tour of the Welsh capital’s major landmarks, passing iconic locations such as Cardiff Castle , the Principality Stadium , the Norwegian Church , and the Wales Millennium Centre .

Historic record in the men’s branch

Ethiopian Yismaw Dillu was the star of the day. In his half-marathon debut, he won with a time of 59:22, beating Leonard Langat’s previous record (59:29) set in 2019 by more than seven seconds.

“It was my first time running a half marathon, so I’m very happy to win the race and set a new record. It was a windy day, but I felt strong and very satisfied with the result,” Dillu said after crossing the finish line.

Chebet repeats victory in the women’s branch

In the women’s category, Kenyan Miriam Chebet successfully defended her title, improving her time from last year by five seconds. She crossed the finish line in 1:06:36, cementing her position as one of the most consistent performers on the circuit.

“I was ready for this race. After winning last year, I wanted to do it again,” Chebet said.

Parallel skills and community spirit

The winners in the wheelchair category were Callum Hall (men) and Mel Nicholls (women).

This year’s event theme, “We ‘re All In,” highlighted the power of community and the connection that running creates between people. More than 500 volunteers and 50 entertainment stations accompanied runners, including the popular Principality Rainbow Roundabout, in collaboration with Pride Cymru, between kilometers 10 and 12.

International presence and spirit of solidarity

More than 4,000 international runners took part in the SuperHalfs circuit, which links the half marathons of Lisbon, Prague, Berlin, Copenhagen, Cardiff, and Valencia. Many others participated as part of the R4W Charitable Foundation or the 100 Club, an initiative that offers free places to promote health and well-being through running.

Run 4 Wales CEO Matt Newman celebrated the success of the event:

“It was another great day in the Welsh capital. It’s fantastic to see so many runners enjoying the course. We thank our sponsors, partners, and the entire team who made it possible.”

Next edition: Cardiff Half Marathon 2026

The Cardiff Half Marathon will return on Sunday, 4 October 2026. Due to the event’s growth, a ballot system will be implemented for the first time to allocate places equitably.

Registration will be open until October 19, 2025, and the lottery results will be announced on October 23.

To take part, visit: www.cardiffhalfmarathon.co.uk/take-part/register/

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