Locals can run sold-out half marathon without cost because of new initiative

The HOKA Hackney Academy is a free community running programme helping East London residents train for and complete the HOKA Hackney Half Marathon 2027

A complimentary initiative aimed at supporting local residents across East London to run a half marathon is set to return in 2027. The HOKA Hackney Academy, a community programme that assists locals in training for the renowned HOKA Hackney Half, is now accepting applications for its 2027 intake.

After two highly successful years, the Academy will welcome 50 new participants in 2027, offering expert coaching, weekly group training sessions, running gear and a free spot in the sold-out HOKA Hackney Half in May. The programme is specifically tailored for individuals who are either completely new to running or returning after a hiatus due to injury, illness, personal circumstances or a dip in confidence.

As part of the broader HOKA Hackney Moves festival, the Academy’s mission is to eliminate obstacles to participation and show that running can be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background, experience or starting point.

For many, the Academy has become about much more than just race preparation. Among those who joined the programme in 2026 was Jannat, a Hackney resident and youth support worker who had never viewed herself as a runner prior to applying.

Jannat, a lifelong Hackney resident, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at 28 but managed to reverse it within five months through a change in diet and lifestyle. This transformative experience spurred her on to lose 36kg over the course of a year.

She signed up to the academy having previously not being able to run around a park in one go. Over the twelve weeks she developed lasting friendships and overcame the ultimate hurdle of the HOKA Hackney Half Marathon.

The Academy has also helped participants in 2025 who joined the inaugural programme and went on to complete the Hackney Half after overcoming significant personal barriers to running.

Each participant undertakes a structured training programme, with weekly coached sessions leading all the way to the HOKA Hackney Half start line. Alongside physical preparation, the Academy is designed to build confidence and a sense of belonging through a supportive group environment.

Ian Allerton, from HOKA Hackney Moves event organiser Motiv Sports UK, said: “The Hackney Academy is one of the things we’re most proud of delivering as part of HOKA Hackney Moves.

“Every year we see incredible people arrive at that first session unsure whether they belong in a running community, only to cross the Hackney Half finish line a few months later having achieved something they never thought possible.

“It’s about much more than running. It’s about confidence, connection, wellbeing and creating opportunities for local people to be part of something special. We’re excited to welcome another 50 people onto that journey in 2027.”

The Academy forms part of HOKA Hackney Moves’ wider commitment to community participation, alongside its network of local partnerships, community places, schools initiatives and free fitness activities delivered across the festival weekend.

The HOKA Hackney Half has become one of the UK’s most sought-after running events, attracting tens of thousands of participants and supporters each year as part of the wider HOKA Hackney Moves festival.

Applications for the 2027 HOKA Hackney Academy are now open. The programme is open to adults who are new to running or returning after an extended break and who can commit to the weekly training programme.