Stafford Half Marathon

 

Over 1,000 have signed up for Stafford Half Marathon

 

The Stafford Half Marathon capacity has exceeded its halfway point as over 1,000 runners have signed up for the event, which takes place on Sunday 21 March 2010.

 

With less than 1,000 places available, race organisers are urging runners to register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, as entries are available on a first come first served basis.

 

For the first time, runners are able to register at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre – in person at the Eastgate Street venue or by telephoning 01785 254 653. Online entries are available at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/halfmarathon  via ‘Real Buzz Run Britain’. Printed entry forms for the hugely popular race will not be available for the 2010 event, as the council moves to a more environmentally friendly paperless entry system.

 

The closing date for entries is Friday 5 February 2010 – or when the 2000 runner limit has been reached.

 

Former half marathon competitor and cabinet member for leisure, Councillor Mike Smith commented, “This event just keeps getting more popular and is now rightly seen as one of the top races in the county’s sporting calendar. And I would urge all those who want to take part in the 2010 Stafford Half Marathon to get their entries in quickly as the places have been filling up at a remarkable rate since registration opened in November – last week alone saw 121 entries.”

 

The 2010 Half Marathon will start in Stafford Street (town centre) at 10.30am. The route will head off from the town centre into Stafford’s surrounding countryside on traffic-controlled roads, incorporating two steady climbs before returning to the Market Square via Victoria Park.

 

Crowds line the route to cheer on the diverse field of athletes and help them enjoy the thrill of the race. Local community groups, bands, school children and anyone else are encouraged to get involved and offer support to the runners along the course.

 

Although 13.1 miles may seem a long way, it is an achievable personal challenge if participants are able to commit to a progressive training programme. Runners training programmes, tips and a weekly training diary are available at www.staffordbc.gov.uk/halfmarathon.  

 

For 2010 all Half Marathon participants will receive medals and t-shirts and other prizes are awarded for open and vet categories.

 

Also on Sunday 21 March as part of the Half Marathon event day programme Handcyclists will take to the Half Marathon route and the School and Family Fun Run will fill the town centre with fun and fancy dress.

 

For more information or to register visit www.staffordbc.gov.uk/halfmarathon, email sports-events@staffordbc.gov.uk  or call 01785 619 300.

 

For more details, please contact:

 

Hannah Clifford
Marketing Projects Officer 
Stafford Borough Council
T:01785619590                                                             

E: hclifford@staffordbc.gov.uk