Hundreds Take Part In Successful Isle Of Wight Festival Of Running

Hundreds of runners descended on the West Wight over the weekend for the Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2026.

The two-day event saw competitors of all ages and abilities take on a series of challenges, including the 10K and the iconic Needles Half Marathon, against a backdrop of the Island's stunning coastal scenery.

Participants faced a variety of conditions throughout the weekend, from heavy rain and strong winds to sunshine and calmer skies, while being cheered on by spectators and supported by a large team of volunteers.

Island athlete and personal trainer George Eastwood enjoyed a standout weekend, claiming victory in both headline events.

Representing Isle of Wight Road Runners, George crossed the line first in Saturday's 10K despite difficult weather conditions, before returning on Sunday to win the Needles Half Marathon in a time of under one hour and 30 minutes.

While local runners impressed throughout the weekend, female competitors travelling from the mainland dominated the podium positions. The women's 10K winner and the top three female finishers in the Half Marathon all made the journey to the Island to compete.

10K Winners

First Male: George Eastwood (Isle of Wight Road Runners)

First Female: Minika Pladaite (Kent)

Needles Half Marathon Podium

First Male: George Eastwood (Isle of Wight Road Runners)

Second Male: Paul Russhard (New Forest Runners)

Third Male: Rob Johnson (Isle of Wight Triathlon Club)

First Female: Aislinn Darvell (Lonely Goats Running Club, East Sussex)

Second Female: Lianne Leakey (Lonely Goats Running Club, East Sussex)

Third Female: Elana Dimmer (London)

One of the highlights of the festival was the Junior Fun Run, which saw young runners tackle their course with determination and enthusiasm, earning medals and applause from supporters.

Organisers have thanked the more than 100 marshals and volunteers who helped ensure the event ran safely and smoothly, as well as sponsors Wightlink, Tapnell Farm, Love Running and Visit Isle of Wight for their continued support.

The festival also raises valuable funds for West Wight Sports and Community Centre, helping support sporting opportunities and community activities across the Island.

Thanks were also extended to landowners, including the National Trust and Gift to Nature, for allowing access to some of the Isle of Wight's most scenic running routes.

Attention will now turn to the next major event in the local running calendar, the West Wight Chilly Hilly, which is due to take place on Sunday 13th December.