If you’ve ever thought about taking part in a marathon event but the full 26.2 miles feels like a stretch, the Yorkshire Marathon Relay might be exactly what you’re looking for.
My name’s George. I work for McClarrons Insurance, and I took part in the Yorkshire Marathon Relay raising money for OSCAR’s Charity in 2025. I had such a great experience that I’m signing up again for 2026 along with my colleagues.
A brilliantly-run event (yes, excuse the pun)
It’s the kind of event where you can focus on enjoying the build-up, soaking up the atmosphere, and running your section the best you can. I also enjoyed focusing on the free breakfast I could get in the VIP area, although not too much…I am an athlete after all (well, on Yorkshire Marathon day I am).
Great support makes it easy to take part
You’re doing something that matters
I’ve known and supported OSCAR’s for a number of years, and the work they do is genuinely amazing. Taking part in the relay is a brilliant way to support them and help raise money for an important cause.
In fact, two of the teams I ran with last year were made-up of families and friends of children OSCAR’s supports. It is amazing to feel so close as a fundraiser to the reason why you fundraise.
You don’t just finish your run feeling proud of the effort. You finish it feeling like you were part of something bigger.
The atmosphere is unreal
Race day has an energy you can’t really describe until you’re in it. The crowds are fantastic and they genuinely keep you going. There’s a real community feel, with runners cheering each other on and supporters bringing the whole route to life. It makes you run faster and smile wider. The York crowd are great – and OSCAR’s often gets a big cheer if you run the relay leg that goes past Dunnington where Oscar is from and the charity was born. And, every so often, one of the OSCAR’s team will pop-up along the route, shout your name and fill you with that bit more energy you need to keep going.
Relay format: accessible, social, and a lot of fun
One of the best things about the relay is that you’re not running the full 26 miles yourself. It is a true team effort.
Of course everyone would love to say they have run a marathon, but not everyone can. This way you get the best of both worlds: all the glory and less of the running!
Admittedly, one of my fellow runners set off fresh on the last leg and was told, “You can do this. You are looking good!” They thought, “Wait – do I look like I have been running 23 miles?!”
The route is split into sections, so everyone plays their part. That makes it more accessible for people of all abilities, and it’s a really enjoyable way to take part as a team.
Whether you’re a regular runner or someone looking for a new challenge, the relay gives you a goal to train for without it feeling overwhelming.
