Tomorrow, Sunday 12th October 2025, Oxford’s streets will welcome an influx of runners for the annual Oxford Half Marathon, ranging from experienced athletes to first-time racers. In its 14 years, the race has attracted up to 13,000 participants.
For many, crossing the finish line is about far more than a sporting achievement. It is a chance to run for something bigger. The event serves as a powerful platform for both local and national charities, with participants dedicating their strides to causes that resonate deeply within the community.
Some charities will have teams of hundreds on the course, whilst more local initiatives may be represented simply by a single runner. These contrasting stories reveal both the scale and the local significance of the Oxford Half Marathon, highlighting the different ways participants make a difference.
Alzheimer’s Research UK
As one of the charity partners for the Oxford Half Marathon, Alzheimer’s Research UK is expecting around 200 runners this year. The funding raised will support ground-breaking local research aimed at transforming how dementia is treated, diagnosed, and prevented.
Since 1998, the charity has invested roughly £32.5 million into projects across Oxford, including £4.6 million in the past year alone. With nearly one million people in the UK affected by dementia, Alzheimer’s Research UK’s dedication to local research is reflected in its large turnout.
The Head of Sporting Events and Volunteering at Alzheimer’s Research UK commented specifically on the race.
“If nothing changes, one in two of us will be directly affected by dementia,” said Julia Sobik. “Our Oxford Half Marathon team will help us power the most forward-thinking scientists working to find a cure.”
With volunteers stationed at cheer points along miles 2.5 and 10, Alzheimer’s Research UK offers a visible, supportive presence on the course, bringing families and the local community together in the fight against dementia.
Ronald McDonald House Charities UK
While some charities field hundreds of runners, others will be represented by just one. Among them is Helle Farmer, running for Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, after her son Blake fell critically ill in December 2022. Helle first ran the Bristol Half Marathon in 2023 and is now taking on the Oxford Half to raise further funds (her Just Giving page is open for donations).
Despite admitting she is “not a runner in the slightest,” Helle says,
“The only thing that kept me going through training is how much good the money fundraised will do.”
When Blake was admitted to the John Radcliffe Hospital’s critical care unit, Helle and her husband stayed nearby at the Oxford Ronald McDonald House. The House provides a “home away from home,” offering invaluable respite to families, many of whom travel long distances to be close to their children. The average distance for families was 58 miles.
Founded 35 years ago, the charity has supported just under 100,000 families nationwide, including 1,110 families at the Oxford House in 2024 alone. Helle emphasised through her experience and motivations leading up to the Oxford Half that “The care and attention was second to none.”
The Oxford House opened in 2020, yet within five years, its impact, as seen through Helle’s story, is already clear. Her dedication highlights every runner’s achievement in completing the race.
Whether motivated by national campaigns like Alzheimer’s Research UK, personal experiences with charities, or simply a personal challenge, the marathon brings Oxford to a standstill. The Half Marathon has now become something of a landmark in itself within the historically rich city.
It’s a moment to reflect on community effort, volunteer support, and local business involvement. Behind the scenes, these contributions help make the Oxford Half Marathon an inspiring annual event that showcases the city’s spirit.
How can you help tomorrow?
Regardless of what charity someone is representing or their own personal reasons for running, your support from the side-lines can give more of a boost than non-runners will ever know.
If someone has their name written on their shirt, shout out encouragement. Even simple clapping and cheering puts an extra spring in steps, and genuinely helps all runners. It can also motivate others to sign up for next year.
Personally I like to make sure those at the back know their efforts are appreciated.
