The sold-out Hackney Half could be within your reach after all — 50 free places with professional coaching are up for grabs for next year’s race.
Applications are now open for the 2027 HOKA Hackney Academy, a community programme that supports local people to train for and complete the HOKA Hackney Half.
The scheme, now in its third year, is aimed at beginners or anyone returning to running after injury, illness or other life circumstances. Each of the 50 participants will receive professional coaching, weekly group training, running kit and a free entry to the sold-out Hackney Half in May.
The programme is part of the wider HOKA Hackney Moves festival and is designed to break down the barriers that keep people from taking up running.
“The Hackney Academy is one of the things we’re most proud of delivering as part of HOKA Hackney Moves,” said Ian Allerton of Motiv Sports UK, which organises the festival.
“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.”
Participants follow a structured training plan with weekly coached sessions, building fitness and confidence in a supportive group environment.
One of last year’s graduates, Jannat — a Hackney resident and youth support worker — had never considered herself a runner before joining. Diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes at 28, she reversed the diagnosis within five months through diet and lifestyle changes, lost 36kg in a year, and then completed the half marathon.
Her story shows what the academy is really about, Allerton said: “We’re excited to welcome another 50 people onto that journey in 2027.”
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 — so a free, coached route in is a genuine opportunity for east Londoners.
Hackney continues to build its sporting calendar. Community initiatives across the borough are also thriving, while Londoners have plenty of other reasons to get out and about this autumn.
Applications for the 2027 academy are open now — and with places strictly limited to 50, interested runners are advised not to wait around.
