Whether you’re organising a city marathon, a 5K charity run, or a multi-stage trail event, having the right running race insurance in place is essential. At Mann Broadbent, we’ve been supporting organisers of running events across the UK for over 60 years, so we know what protection you really need.

Why Is Running Event Insurance Important?

No matter how well you plan your event, accidents, cancellations, and unexpected issues can still happen. Running event insurance protects you financially if a runner gets injured, property is damaged, or bad weather forces you to cancel. From small local fun runs to large-scale races, getting tailored cover gives you peace of mind that your event (and reputation) is protected.

If you’re running a single event, we can offer flexible one-time cover. But if you organise multiple races each year, we usually recommend an annual running event insurance policy, it’s more cost-effective and keeps things simple.

What Type of Race Insurance Do You Need?

Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential insurance covers most UK race organisers should consider:

1. Public Liability Insurance for Running Events
   This is the most important policy for any running event. It protects you if a participant or member of the public is injured or if property is damaged. Many venues, councils, and landowners will insist on proof of this cover before granting permissions. Check whether your policy covers injuries to participants – not all do.
2. Employers’ Liability Insurance
   If you employ staff, even part-time or volunteer marshals, this cover is either legally required. It protects you if a team member or volunteer is injured while working at your event, and you would be surprised how many claims we have seen for injured marshals.
3. Event Cancellation Insurance
   Extreme weather, emergencies, or unexpected disruption (like a road closure or no drinking water) can lead to a cancelled, disrupted or postponed race. Cancellation insurance covers costs and lost revenue, so you’re not left out of pocket.
4. Equipment & Kit Insurance
   Running races often involve valuable items like barriers, timing gear, signage, generators, and sound systems. Insurance protects your kit against theft, loss, or weather damage, including hired equipment like Portaloo’s and fencing.
5. Entry Fee Refund Protection
   Adding this to the price of an entry, available to participants at the point of purchase, will mean they will be reimbursed if they are unable to attend your race, with no admin burden for you.
6. Cyber Insurance for Event Organisers
   If you’re taking race entries and payments online or storing runner data, cyber insurance is vital. It helps protect against hacks, data breaches, and system failures, and offers support to keep your event secure and compliant with GDPR.
7. Tour Operator’s Liability
   Organising an international or multi-day event? You may need Tour Operator’s Liability if your race package lasts over 24 hours. This is a legal requirement for many overseas events and can also involve financial protection policies.

Supporting Worcester City Runs – And Races Across the UK

We’re proud to announce that our sister company, Sutcliffe & Co, is the official sponsor of this year’s Worcester City Runs, one of the region’s most popular and well-loved running events. It’s a perfect example of the kind of dynamic, high-profile race that benefits from having comprehensive running event insurance in place.

Wherever you are putting on a race, Mann Broadbent is here to help. We’re not just insurance brokers, we’re passionate about sport and active events, and we understand the challenges organisers face.

Duncan Sutcliffe, Managing Director at Mann Broadbent, commented: “Running races are unpredictable, that’s why we’ve spent decades helping organisers manage their risks. If you’re planning a running event, we’ll help you get the protection you need.”

If you’re organising a running race, big or small, speak to brokers who truly understand the running world. We offer tailored advice, reliable cover, and a straightforward service from start to finish. Give our team a call on 01905 612336 or contact us.