Experience the scenic beauty and tranquility of Suffolk at the Zig Zag Marathon & Half Marathon, hosted by the Suffolk Running Centre on Church Road in Bury St Edmunds. The race begins promptly at 9am with a mass start for both marathoners and half marathon runners, offering participants seven hours to complete their chosen distance. The Kirtling Route is an officially measured course that winds through quiet rural roads, providing a mildly undulating terrain that challenges yet rewards those who take on the full marathon. The route is known for its picturesque views of rolling fields and historic landmarks, making it both visually appealing and mentally stimulating as you run. For half marathon enthusiasts, the Windmill Route offers one loop with similar scenic elements but in a slightly shorter distance, ensuring an equally enjoyable experience without overwhelming demands. Both routes feature aid stations every 10 kilometers where runners can replenish fluids and enjoy snacks to keep their energy levels up throughout the race. Parking is conveniently provided at no extra cost, allowing participants easy access to the starting line and base camp area. The Race HQ/Base Camp serves as a central hub for water refills, medical assistance, and other essential services during the event. Each runner will receive a bespoke medal upon crossing the finish line, celebrating their accomplishment with a unique keepsake. Participants are encouraged to bring reusable bottles or cups in response to the "cupless" initiative aimed at reducing waste. Additionally, only bone conduction headphones are permitted for safety reasons and to ensure runners remain aware of their surroundings while enjoying music during the race. This event is particularly appealing to those seeking qualification opportunities for major marathons through achieving a Guaranteed Finish Allocation (GFA) place. The Zig Zag Marathon & Half Marathon promises an unforgettable running experience amidst Suffolk's idyllic countryside, perfect for both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. Join us in Bury St Edmunds this year as we celebrate the spirit of endurance and community at the Zig Zag Marathon & Half Marathon!
Races Offered
Affiliated - Half Marathon - Event Medal
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Fixed distance
Affiliated - Half Marathon - Lucky Dip
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Medal randomly allocated from previous event - Fix
Affiliated - Marathon - Event Medal
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Fixed distance
Affiliated - Marathon - Lucky Dip
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Medal randomly allocated from previous event - Fix
Unattached - Half Marathon - Event Medal
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Fixed distance
Unattached - Half Marathon - Lucky Dip
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Medal randomly allocated from previous event - Fix
Unattached - Marathon - Event Medal
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Fixed distance
Unattached - Marathon - Lucky Dip
May 09, 2027
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
Medal randomly allocated from previous event - Fix
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in West Suffolk.
thermostatTemperature
8.4° / 17.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.5° / 14.3°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 38m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.8 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
13.6 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.2)
humidity_mid
Humidity
76.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:01
nightlight
Sunset
20:46
About West Suffolk
Learn more about the host city, West Suffolk.
West Suffolk may refer to the following places in Suffolk, England:West Suffolk (county), a county until 1974
West Suffolk District, a local government district established in 2019
West Suffolk (constituency), an electoral district created in 1997
Western Suffolk, a unitary authority due to be formed in 2028
West Suffolk College, a college in Bury St Edmunds
the western part of Suffolk
