Plans for the 11th Active Northumberland Kielder Marathon weekend began in earnest shortly after the tenth anniversary event drew to a close. Today (Sunday 3 October), two years on, thousands of runners turned out in force to mark a triumphant return. 
 

With more than 1,100 runners taking on the Kielder Marathon and Kielder Half Marathon, and a further 75 in the Junior races, adding to those in the 10k and Run Bike Run on Saturday, a total of around 2,500 competitors took part across the weekend. 
 

The event took place at Northumbrian Water’s Landal Kielder Waterside Park, with the backdrop of the stunning Kielder Reservoir. 

The Marathon winner was Russell Maddams from Keswick AC, who crossed the finish line in just 2 hours 54 minutes and 25 seconds for his third win in the Active Northumberland Kielder Marathon. Fellow former winners Ian Twaddle and Cees Van Der Land came in second and third. Jo Ballantyne was the first female through, in 3 hours 35 minutes and 21 seconds. 
 

David Holmes was the winner of the Half Marathon, finishing in 1 hour 16 minutes and 39 seconds, while the first female was Anna McClean. She crossed the line in 1 hour, 38 minutes and 32 seconds. 
 

Marcus Cram, Race Co-ordinator at Events of the North, said: "When we packed away the bunting and barriers in 2019, we didn’t expect to be waiting two years to be back for the 11th Active Northumberland Kielder Marathon. 

“It’s been a tough couple of years, and the importance of exercise to people’s wellbeing has never been more evident. So, to be able to bring people together to celebrate the joys of running and cycling has resonated more strongly than ever this weekend. 

“It’s been amazing to see people turn out to take part or to cheer others on and we hope it’s a reflection of brighter days to come and we look forward to being back again in 2022.” 
 

The Active Northumberland Kielder Marathon weekend is delivered by Events of the North in conjunction with Northumbrian Water, Active Northumberland, Northumberland County Council and Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. 
 

Northumberland County Councillor, Jeff Watson, Cabinet Member for Health Lives said: 

“It has been fantastic to see so many competitors taking part and enjoying their chosen event. Well done to everyone who has taken part and to all those involved in the organisation of the weekend.” 
 

Mark Warnes, Chief Executive of Active Northumberland said: “It has been heartening to see all ages getting involved, from children as young as six years of age taking part in short junior runs, to well-seasoned runners who are taking part in the full marathon. On Friday Active Northumberland also held a walking event so those who are unable to run, could also take part and enjoy the stunning setting. 

“I think that is the great appeal of this weekend – it has something for everyone.  I’m so pleased to see Kielder Marathon weekend is back to its spectacular best.”  
 

David Hall, Head of Commercial Strategy and Transformation at Northumbrian Water, said: "It’s been truly emotional welcoming the Active Northumberland Kielder Marathon back to Kielder Waterside. We know how hard the last two years have been for so many people, and there have been times where this beautiful part of the world has been without visitors to help keep people safe, so the significance of this weekend is immense. 

“On behalf of everyone at Northumbrian Water, I just want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has made this amazing weekend so special.” 
 

To see highlights from the weekend including pictures, videos and interviews visit Northumbrian Water’s Facebook page and Twitter account (@NorthumbrianH2O). 

Race information 

Marathon 

1st male – Russell Maddams, Keswick AC - 02:54:25 

2nd male – Ian Twaddle – 03:04:18 

3rd male – Cees Van Der Land – 03:05:13 

1st female – Jo Ballantyne - 03:35:21 

2nd female – Kiri Wood 03:39:55 

3rd female – Clare Hanson 03:41:38 

Half Marathon 

1st male – David Holmes - 01:16:39 

2nd male – John Butters, Morpeth Harriers - 01:18:33 

3rd male – Rob Kleiser - 01:25:55 

1st female – Anna McClean, Low Fell RC - 01:38:32 

2nd female – Tugba Mutlu - 01:41:09 

3rd female – Alice Strawbridge - 01:42:54 

Junior Races 

Osprey (under 11) 

Male 

1st Arthur Byrne, Prudhoe Plodders - 00:04:50 

2nd  Jay Bagnall - 00:05:01 

3rd Max Tawn - 00:05:04 

Falcon (under 16) 

Male 

1st Jonas Tipping, Radley Athletic Club - 00:06:33 

2nd Charlie Digby - 00:06:57 

3rd Tom Caldwell - 00:07:14 

Female 

1st Islay Wilson – 00:06:52 

2nd Erin Booth – 00:12:01 

3rd Jessica Rys – 00:12:30