COMPETITORS from more than 30 different countries filled the streets of Ealing today in the seventh running of the Ealing Half Marathon.

The race sold out weeks in advance and thousands of runners of all levels took on the well-supported 13.1-mile route.

Lining up at the start was a large contingent of Ealing Eagles, as well as many others raising money for charity, including Alzheimer’s Society and Cancer Research UK.

Many fancy dress costumes were spotted, including a caterpillar, rhino and Banana Man. British Olympian Mara Yamauchi was also in the crowd, as well as a group of runners from Ealing’s twin town, Marcq-en-Barœul in France.

The race was started at 9am by endurance runner Susie Chan and a Friend of Ealing Half Marathon, Lisa Emerson, who then joined in to complete her seventh Ealing Half.

Jonathan Poole, of Serpentine Running Club, successfully defended his title in 1:09:02, seven seconds ahead of Paul Martelletti. Ollie Garrod, of Epsom and Ewell Harriers, was third in 1:09:35.

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The women’s title was claimed by Rachel Thomas, of Victoria Park Harriers and Tower Hamlets, in 1:20:28, 70 seconds ahead of Josie Hinton, of London Heathside. Martha Lloyd, also of Victoria Park Harriers, was third in 1:22:05.

The race followed the Ealing Mini Mile on Saturday, sponsored by St Augustine’s Priory.  It had 1,700 entries, aged 6-16, who completed their own mile race in Lammas Park.

For the first time this year, the event included a Family Mini Mile for children aged five and under.

For all results, go to www.ealinghalfmarathon.com/results/

The 2019 race will take place on Sunday, September 29, and entries will open at midday on Monday, October 1 at a special early-bird rate of £38.

Go to www.ealinghalfmarathon.com for further race information.