There are moments in the year that stay with you, and for us, the 2026 Brighton Half Marathon is certainly one of them. Not just because of the distance, or the finish line, or even the sea air that carries you along the route, but because of what it represents.
A sea of people. Thousands of stories. Each runner arriving at the start line with their own reason, their own motivation, their own “why”.
And yet, for a few hours, all of those stories become one. Moving together, step by step, towards something bigger than themselves.
This year, that moment arrived under grey skies and relentless rain. Cold, wet, and undeniably tough, but somehow, that only made what followed even more powerful.
Defying the distance.
Despite the conditions, our incredible team of 18 combined Focus Group and Zone4 Hove runners stood on that start line ready to take on 13.1 miles (21.1 kilometres) in support of Focus Foundation.
Months of training had led to this point. Countless early mornings, tired and achy legs, long runs in the cold and quiet moments of doubt, pushed aside by determination.
As the race unfolded along Brighton’s seafront, the atmosphere carried them forward. Cheers from the crowd, encouragement from strangers, teammates pushing through side by side. Legs grew heavier, the rain continued to linger, and the distance stretched on.
Each mile asked a little more, and each runner found a way to give it.
And then, the finish line.
Relief. Pride. Emotion. A moment that makes every step worth it.
“It was a tough day with the weather but so pleased we all crossed the finish line!”
Turning miles into meaning: £5,014 raised.
Thanks to the dedication of every runner, and the generosity of everyone who supported them, together we raised an incredible £5,014.
“For the Alta Brighton Half Marathon this year we had an amazing team of runners from Focus Group and Zone 4 Hove, several of whom were running this distance for the first time. On the day, everyone successfully completed their 21.1 k and received their well-earned medal at the finish line. The weather wasn’t kind to us but the team spirit prevailed and made everyone a winner. And if that wasn’t enough, they smashed the team target of raising £5,014 for Focus Foundation! A huge Well done to team 2026!”
– Claire Griffin, Relationship Manager, Focus Foundation.
Every pound raised will go on to support grassroots charities. These are organisations working tirelessly within their communities to provide vital services, safe spaces and life-changing support for people who need it most.
The impact of race day doesn’t end at the finish line. In many ways, that’s where it truly begins.
From finish line to vital frontline support.
Following our 2026 Q1 Grants Committee meeting, we’re proud to share that one of the charities this funding will support is The Clock Tower Sanctuary in Brighton. A vital lifeline for young people experiencing homelessness.
When the Focus Foundation team visited The Clock Tower Sanctuary, they saw first-hand the reality of what support looks like on the ground. A welcoming, practical day centre where young people can access essentials, including hot meals, showers and clothing, as well as dedicated support from caseworkers.
But more than that, it’s a space where young people are seen, heard, and supported as individuals.
Each year, The Clock Tower Sanctuary works with 120 to 180 young people, offering one to one, strength-based support shaped directly by those they help. It’s a place where confidence is rebuilt, connections are formed, and futures begin to feel possible again.
Through the funds raised at the 2026 Brighton Half Marathon, as well as other donations, Focus Foundation has awarded £7,972 to support The Clock Tower Sanctuary’s Women’s Group, Men’s Group, and Craft Group Activities Project over the next year.
This initiative will expand their programme with creative and wellbeing-focused sessions such as yoga, pottery, and jewellery making, providing consistent opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop skills, and connect in a supportive environment.
Real impact isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s found in small, steady moments that help someone move forward.
A collective effort.
Events like the 2026 Brighton Half Marathon are a reminder that change happens when people come together.
To every runner who trained, showed up, and pushed through, and every supporter who donated, shared, and cheered from the sidelines – thank you.
Your commitment, resilience and generosity will make a real and lasting difference to communities across the UK.
