All the pictures from the Ipswich half marathon 2023

A field of thousands was greeted at the start line at Ipswich Town's Portman Road ground by the club's manager Kieran McKenna- fresh from seeing his side beat Sheffield Wednesday 1-0 at Hillsborough on Saturday.

READ MORE: Ipswich Half Marathon runner returns after heart attack

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna and Ipswich Mayor Lynne Mortimer cheer the half marathon runners (Image: Charlotte Bond)The runners prepare to set off from Portman Road. (Image: Charlotte Bond)Thousands crossed the line during Sunday's event. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

He was joined by Ipswich Mayor Lynne Mortimer.

John Thurkettle returned to complete the marathon, a year after suffering a cardiac arrest. (Image: Charlotte Bond)

John Thurkettle at the start line one year on from suffering a cardiac arrest in the Ipswich half marathon. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

And there was an emotional return for runner John Thurkettle, who suffered a cardiac arrest at mile 11 of last year's race and was revived by Kesgrave Kruisers runner Kevin Ward, with support from fellow runners Ben Solway and David Smith.

Runners gathered for the Ipswich Half Marathon on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

There was a lot to celebrate as runners crossed the finishing line. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

READ MORE: Ipswich Half Marathon - Everything you need to know

He was joined by the trio- and loved ones- as he completed the final leg of the half marathon that he was unable to finish last year.

Runners taking on the route of the Ipswich Half Marathon on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Runners wind their way around the streets of Ipswich (Image: Charlotte Bond)After starting at the stadium, the route followed a scenic course that took runners via Ipswich town centre, before heading through Holywell’s Park and along Ipswich Marina.

READ MORE: Ipswich news

Runners taking on the route of the Ipswich Half Marathon on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)Runners taking on the route of the Ipswich Half Marathon on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Runners then headed out along Wherstead Road towards The Strand, before heading up Freston Hill and completing a loop around Freston Village.

Runners head along Ipswich waterfront (Image: Charlotte Bond)Retracing their steps towards Hawes Street, Vernon Street, Bridge Street, Grafton Way and Commercial Road,  the runners then made their way onto Portman Road and Sir Alf Ramsey Way, before heading back to Portman Road for the finish line.

Runners taking on the route of the Ipswich Half Marathon on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)Hassand Ahdich was the fastest man in this year's Ipswich half marathon. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

The first male across the finish line was Hassan Ahdich, of Ipswich Jaffa, in a time of 1 hour 12 mins 37 secs, while Andrew Risk, of Victoria Park Harriers and Tower Hamlets Athletic Club, took second place in 1:12:48 with Christopher Poulding, of St Edmunds Pacers, in third in 1:18:13. 

The first three men in this year's half marathon were Hassan Ahdich, Andrew Risk and Christopher Poulding (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Daisy Brooke was the first female across the finish line followed by Hayley Magill Georgia Humphreys (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Supporters lined the streets to cheer on the runners (Image: Charlotte Bond)Daisy Brooke, of Ipswich Jaffa, was the first female across the finish line in 1:26:21 followed by Hayley Magill who clocked 1:28:54 for second spot and Georgia Humphreys who took third in 1:30:05, both unaffiliated.

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Kieran McKenna with member's of the crowd. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Members of the Rushmere Community Runners. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Tristan Batley-Kyle, operations director at organisers Run For All, said: “We want to say a huge well done and thank you to all our participants who joined us today. We also want to say a huge thank you to John for joining us this morning.

Some of the supporters brought banners with them to encourage the runners (Image: Charlotte Bond)“John’s story shows the importance of quick-thinking, learning valuable life skills and the sense of community at these events.

“The enthusiasm and support from everyone involved, from the participants themselves to the many spectators, sponsors, partners and volunteers, all ensured the day was a fantastic success.

Ipswich mayor Lynne Mortimer with BBC breakfast presenter Wayne Bevan. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Runners hit the streets of Ipswich for this year's Ipswich half marathon. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

“We already can’t wait to return next year and hope to see runners of all abilities on the start line once again.”

Crowds gathered along the route to cheer on the runners. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Crowds gathered along the route to cheer on the runners. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)

Kieran McKenna helped to start the race on Sunday. (Image: Charlotte Bond, Newsquest)