Local runner Jim Darcy from Shirley, Southampton has achieved something very few runners can claim – he has taken part in every ABP Southampton Half Marathon since the event began, completing all 11 editions of the race.
Now aged 31, Jim is already setting his sights on the future, planning to continue his streak and complete the next five events in a row to earn the newly introduced Penta Marathon Medal, launching at the 2026 ABP Southampton Marathon Festival.
For Jim, running the Southampton Half Marathon is about far more than collecting medals, it’s about running through the city he calls home.
A Southampton Runner Through and Through
Jim, who works as a Membership Advisor at The Quays leisure centre in Southampton, has built an impressive running record over the years.
Alongside his participation in the Southampton Half Marathon, Jim has collected more than 100 medals from various running events and virtual challenges. To keep himself race-ready, he regularly runs two 10K sessions each week as part of his training routine.
But despite the number of races he has completed, the ABP Southampton Half Marathon remains his favourite.
“I enjoy taking part in the Southampton event because it’s where I’m from — there’s nothing like finishing a half marathon in the city centre of the area you were born and raised.”
Jim says the atmosphere from the crowds is one of the reasons he keeps coming back year after year.
“Southampton for me ranks as one of the best for me because not only is it where I grew up but the crowd along the course bring a lot of energy and enthusiasm and the weather is always so good on event day."
A Tradition That Started Without a Plan
Interestingly, Jim never set out to run every Southampton Half Marathon. What began as a simple decision to take part quickly turned into a yearly tradition.
“I never imagined or planned to keep up doing the ABP Southampton half marathons - I just kept saying yes to another year but I think it was the best choice I made to keep going.” Now, more than a decade later, Jim has become part of the event’s history.
The New Penta Marathon Medal Challenge
For the 2026 ABP Southampton Marathon Festival, we have introduced the Penta Marathon Medal, a special recognition awarded to runners who complete five consecutive events between 2026 and 2030.
For Jim, it’s the perfect motivation to keep his streak alive.
“Absolutely, I’m very much up for the challenge. Hopefully I’m a prime contender — I think I can definitely manage running through to 2030!”
If Jim completes the next five events, he could cement his place as one of the most dedicated runners in Southampton Marathon history.
Join the ABP Southampton Marathon Festival
The ABP Southampton Marathon Festival returns on Sunday 3rd May, bringing thousands of runners to the city for one of the South Coast’s biggest running events.
Distances available include:
With incredible crowd support, iconic landmarks, and a buzzing city centre finish line, the event welcomes runners of all abilities, from first-timers to seasoned marathoners like Jim.
Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there’s a distance for everyone. Sign up today.
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