> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Olly Alexander announced as official race starter of Brighton Half Marathon
- URL: https://www.scenemag.co.uk/olly-alexander-announced-as-official-race-starter-of-brighton-half-marathon/
- Published: 2026-01-28T12:06:17.000Z
- Updated: 2026-01-28T12:11:35.000Z
- Author: Graham Robson
- Tags: Community Corner

The **Brighton Half Marathon**, the biggest fundraiser for local HIV charity Sussex Beacon, has announced BAFTA-nominated actor and award-winning singer/songwriter, **Olly Alexander**, as the official race starter of the half marathon. 

Olly Alexander said: "It’s an honour to be asked to officially start the Brighton Half Marathon! Then I’ll be jumping straight into the race to join Team Beacon, I can’t wait! I’ve fallen in love with the charity and the work they do, which is so important and vital for the LGBTQ+ community and people living with HIV."

During race weekend more than 10,000 runners are expected to flock to Brighton & Hove to enjoy the fast, flat 13.1mile seafront course. Participants will be joined on the start line by other well-known faces including **Chris Oliver** (*SAS Who Dares Wins*) and **Zoe Lyons** (comedian and TV presenter). **Amanda** from season 4 of *The Traitors* will also be welcoming runners to Team Beacon. 

The half marathon starts on **Hove Lawns** before winding its way around some of Brighton’s most iconic sites including the Brighton **Palace Pier**, **Royal Pavilion**, the **West Pier**, **i360**, **Brighton Marina** and the colourful **Hove Beach Huts**.

Olly is running for Team Beacon, the Sussex Beacon Hospice’s challenge event group, who have a record number of runners this year, aiming to beat 2025’s fundraising total of over £120,000\. 

The **Brighton Half Marathon** and **Wheelchair Race** will take place on **Sunday, 1 March** with the **Youth Races** taking place the day before on **Saturday, 28 February**.