PHOENIX - Summer Marathon & Half Marathon
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating running experience at the PHOENIX - Summer Marathon & Half Marathon, hosted by Phoenix Running on Saturday, September 5th, 2026, in the stunning surroundings of Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. This event promises a beautiful, low-key adventure along the picturesque River Thames, as participants take on either 4 laps for the half marathon or 8 laps for the full marathon distance. As part of the exciting Icebird four-race series, this race not only offers a chance to enjoy the scenic riverside towpath but also the opportunity to earn a spectacular MEGA-Firebird / Icebird medal for those who complete all four events. With a flexible 'rock up and run' start time within a one-hour window, you can enjoy a stress-free experience tailored to your schedule. Remember, spots are limited, so be sure to secure your place early in this fast and flat, accurately measured and UKA certified route. Join us for a day of fun, fitness, and fantastic scenery!
About this event
Phoenix Running is delighted to invite you to our Summer Marathon and Half Marathon event. This is a beautiful low key jaunt along the River Thames from Walton on Thames towards Hampton Court and back. Runners complete either 4 or 8 laps for the half marathon or marathon distance. This is the second event in our 2025 Icebird four-race series. The final two events are the Riverside and Year End Half Marathons / Marathons. Those who complete all four races in the series will receive a MEGA-Firebird / Icebird medal at the Year End event. We operate our uniquely flexible 'rock up and run' start times within a 1 hour start window, so no waiting around if you arrive early and no added pressure if you're running a bit late. If you have any special start time requirements then just get in touch because depending on the distance you are planning to run we can pretty much accommodate all start time requests. Places will be strictly limited so don't leave it too late to enter. This event takes place on an accurately Measured & UKA Certified Route. Off road trail, the terrain is riverside towpath. The overall course has no elevation gain / loss making this a fast and flat route.
Distances & Prices
| Distance | Price | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Marathon | £33.50 | open |
| Half Marathon | £33.50 | open |
What's included
Bespoke Finishers’ medal! Epic Aid Station! Accurately Measured & UKA Certified Route. Flexible Start Times! Chip Timing with online live results Results e-mailed to participants and uploaded to website same day Digital Finishers certificate available on Phoenix World site Athlete profile available on Phoenix World site
The course
The course is a scenic tow path alongside the River Thames in the direction of Hampton Court. The overall course has no elevation gain / loss making this a fast and flat route. Our Walton on Thames route is an accurately measured & UKA certified route - Certificate No: 18/340.
Getting there
The race is around 6 miles from the closest M25 junction. Walton Station is around a 2.5 mile walk away.
Parking
Free parking is available a short 5 minute walk from the start line. Details are provided in the final event information which is emailed a week prior to the event.
Gallery
FAQs
What do you stock at the Aid Station?
Selection of jelly sweets, crisps and pretzels along with Freddos. There is a good chance of cake and, if the weather is hot, ice lollies as well. Vegan options are clearly marked. Water, variety of squash and cola will be available.
Are spectators welcome?
Spectators are more than welcome! The Weir Pub is located right next to the start and finish line so offers an extremely convenient cheering on point for spectators. The Weir offers cold drinks, hot drinks and food from 11am. There is also a café located at the nearby Xcel Leisure Centre. The Weir offers hotel rooms for those wishing to stay over but please book early as it always sells out.
How many laps for my distance?
Complete 4 laps for a half marathon distance. Complete 8 laps for a full marathon distance, recognised by the 100 Marathon Club.
Flexible Start times?
We offer flexible start times, simply come to the start area ready to run so we can check you in and set you off as soon as you’re ready.
Toilets and Facilities?
There are toilets in the Weir Pub, which will be open for our use from 8:00am. There are also toilets in the Xcel Leisure Centre that are available from 7:00am.
Can I leave my bag at the aid station?
We have no ‘official’ baggage check in facility; however you can leave small bags and your own items in the grassy area nearby at your own risk – these will be easily accessible to you during and throughout the event.
What is the event cut-off?
The cut-off time is 2:30pm by which time you should be finished running.
Who are Phoenix Running?
Phoenix Running are now in their 10th year of organising events in the South-East of England. We’re all about being inclusive; it’s about great routes, great medals and above else, great people. We believe it’s all about encouraging and enabling runners to achieve things that perhaps they once thought were impossible, whether that’s your first 5km, 5 mile or 50 km run, we’ll support you to success. Small steps lead to bigger things and everyone starts at the beginning. Who knows where the journey may take you?
Price rises soon
£33.50
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