THE second annual ABP Newport Wales Marathon welcomed 6,000 runners to the city yesterday.

The event was hailed as another runaway hit for the city, with organisers “delighted” with the atmosphere and turnout.

In addition to the marathon, there were 10k and ‘family mile’ races.

Mayor Cllr Malcolm Linton took time to reflect on another successful event.

He said: “It’s absolutely fantastic for Newport and shows that the city can be a really big sporting venue for these sorts of occasions.

“It’s been lovely weather and really brought out the crowds and everybody’s had a fun day.

“I’ve really enjoyed it, and can’t wait to bring it again next year, bigger and better.”

Run 4 Wales CEO and marathon organiser Matthew Newman was pleased with the turnout, both with the runners and the supporters.

He said: “I think it’s gone exceptionally well. I’m absolutely delighted with the second year of the ABP Marathon.

“The crowds coming back from last year have really helped put it on the running calendar, and cemented it as the largest marathon in Wales.

“It’s been a great day for athletes, with personal bests coming through from many and I think they will be coming back to Newport in droves.

“It’s been a lovely day for everyone, from the inspirational runners to those just delighted to cross the finish line.”

Cllr Debbie Wilcox, leader of Newport City Council, said: “Last year’s event set the bar incredibly high – but I am so pleased that the second ABP Newport Wales Marathon has been another incredible success.

“People have come from across the world to take part and I am proud that our city has been able to give them such a warm welcome.”

The thousands of runners and spectators were greeted by a beautiful morning, without a cloud in sight.

The route, unchanged since last year, took runners on a 26.2-mile loop from Newport to Magor and back.

The marathon winners were Chris Bird and Carla Swithenbank.

Mr Bird came in with a time of 2hr 31min 34sec, beating last year’s record by nearly two minutes. Ms Swithenbank finished the course in 2hr 45min 48sec.

The flat route helped many runners set new personal bests.

In the 10k event, Matt Clowes made a successful return from injury to triumph in 29min, 43sec, equalling the course record.

The women’s race had a new champion in Charlotte Taylor-Green. A week after acting as a pace maker in the London Marathon she held off the 2018 winner, Rachel Fenton, to win in a course record 34min 44sec.

The date for the 2020 event has already been set for Sunday, April 19, as organisers Run 4 Wales aim to build on the success of the opening two years.