Folkestone Rotary Half Marathon

The Folkestone Rotary Half Marathon begins outside The Grand on The Leas in Folkestone, Kent. Runners depart along the seafront on a Sunday morning in September. This event features a road half marathon alongside a junior race. The main race accommodates both experienced runners aiming for a fast time and individuals new to the distance. Much of the course follows the coastal promenade, making it relatively flat for a half marathon, though it includes a few inclines instead of being entirely level. The course starts on The Leas, descends towards the coast, passes through the coastal park, and proceeds towards Hythe before returning. A circuit of The Leas occurs near the finish. Landslips on the Road of Remembrance necessitated route adjustments in recent years; the present route maintains the promenade character while incorporating an ascent. Mile markers, marshals, and lead cyclists assist participants, although parts of the promenade are shared with other users. The race is managed by Rotary, under the direction of Rotarian Ray Johnson, and serves as the club’s primary fundraiser. Funds raised benefit local charities including the Gurkha Memorial Fund, The Rainbow Centre, Folkestone & District Mind, and other Kent-based organizations.