This was my very first Torbay Half. I had heard good things from friends who had run it in the past. And as they were running it again this year I decided to join them.

Registering for the race online was easy. If you register with plenty of time the race pack is sent out to you.

The event itself is well organised, the route is clearly marked and on closed roads

The race starts in Paignton and you run once around the sea front before heading out towards Torquay. The course is quite undulated but the hills are not too steep so they are pretty manageable.

I quite liked the approach into Torquay. Lots of support from the crowd and it was nice to see the big wheel in the background. Once around the big wheel you head back into Paignton. First lap done, ready to start the second lap. If you are not a fan of 2-lap races maybe this race isn’t for you. I know some of my running friends don’t take part simply because of this reason.

The crowd in Paignton is out en-masse and they are really good at cheering you on especially when approaching the finish line.

The finish line is by the sea. Not many races can say that. It’s great to take your shoes off and jump into the sea to cool off, especially on a hot day like it was this year. Having said that, my friends who have been doing this race for the last 3 years have said that it’s always been sunny and hot on race day.

Nice medal, a good finisher t-shirt and a generous goody bag. All in all I think it is a great race and very good value for money – just over £20 if you are a UKA affiliated runner.