A huge turn-out if expected at the Potters ‘Arf Marathon this weekend
Hundreds of runners will take to the streets on Sunday for the Potters ‘Arf Marathon.
Spectators are being urged to show their support Hanley Economic Building Society event
More than 1,600 people will tackle the 13.1-mile course, which includes challenging sections such as Anchor Road and the infamous ‘Heartbreak Hill’ on Milton Road.
Runners – including the first leg of the relay teams – will gather in Huntbach Street, Hanley, and then start at 10am from Potteries Way; finishing back in the city centre at the Sir Stanley Matthews statue near The Potteries Centre.
Walkers start at 8.30am, while the 1k and 2k junior races begin at 10.20am.
More details about the route and timings are available on the race day section of the web pages at https://www.stoke.gov.uk/pottersarf
Big event
Everyone who finishes the Potters ’Arf receives a goody bag, as well as a medal created by Wade Ceramics.
Race winners receive stunning trophies made by pottery company Emma Bridgewater and the top teams get medals created by Stoke-on-Trent’s Wade Ceramics.
Trophy presentations will take place on a stage near the race finishing line at around 12pm.
The Potters ’Arf is one of the most unique, community-spirited races in the UK and raises thousands of pounds for local charities, including the Douglas Macmillan Hospice and The Alice Charity.
Lead event organiser Stoke-on-Trent City Council, race partners and sponsors want this year’s event to be the biggest local running event of 2022.
Unique
Councillor Lorraine Beardmore, Stoke-on-Trent City Council cabinet member for public health, culture and leisure, said: “The Potters ‘Arf is one of the most unique and inspiring half marathons in the country – and one of the best occasions on Stoke-on-Trent’s calendar. It’s going to be absolutely incredible to see competitors take to the streets of our wonderful city once again.
“The support on the Potters ’Arf route is always something special and the atmosphere at the city centre finish is amazing, and given how many people will be participating, I’d love to see a record number of people lining the streets of our fair city and in the city centre to cheer on and support all those taking part. As always I’ll be out with my family giving everyone taking part the encouragement they deserve to complete this unique course.
“The teamwork and the support of people across the city, is a fantastic example of how Stoke-on-Trent comes together for events like this. It is a shining example of the amazing community spirit and passion for sport that this city has. Good luck to everyone who’s taking part – it’s going to be an event to remember.”
Proud
David Lownds, head of sales, marketing and business development at the Hanley Economic Building Society, said: “We’re proud once again to be the main sponsors of this local iconic event. As a mutual building society, supporting the local community is a business priority. This event helps to raise thousands of pounds for local charities. Good luck to all runners and walkers who will be taking part on Sunday.”
Participants and spectators are being encouraged to use the hashtag #PottersArf on social media to post messages, pictures and video of their Potters ’Arf experience.
Details of how to apply for next year’s race are set to be revealed following the start of the 2022 event.
More information including details of facilities, the route and timings, the junior fun run, and directions to the event is available at https://www.stoke.gov.uk/pottersarf
