500 runners heading to Dervock

Upwards of 500 runners will descend on the village of Dervock for the flagship event in the McArthur centenary celebrations. Entries have been received from South Africa, New Zealand, Isle of Man and the home countries including a number of members of the 100 Marathon Club all of whom have completed over 100 marathons.

For the first time wheelchair athletes will compete over the challenging course.

The Race Director, Bryan Edgar said: “We’ve had a great response from athletes at home and abroad who want to be part of the celebrations to mark the local man’s achievements. It’s fitting that he continues to be held in such high esteem by those living in the village and further afield.

“The Race Committee thanks them all for entering and we look forward to a good days racing. We are delighted that Dame Mary Peters has agreed to come along and act as official starter for the races”.

The 10K gets proceedings under way at 10.45am followed by the Half Marathon at 11.00am and the Marathon at 11.05am.

There will be a carnival atmosphere in both Dervock and Stranocum with street entertainment during the day so come out enjoy the entertainment and support the athletes as they tackle their 10K, 13.1 or 26.2 mile challenge.

Competitors can collect Race Packs from Race Registration in the William Pinkerton Memorial Primary School, 182 Knock Road Dervock BT53 8BB on Friday 20 July between 4.00pm and 8.00pm or Saturday 21 July between 8.00am and 10.00am. Late entries can be made at registration on Friday and Saturday but will not receive a commemorative T-shirt. There will be no entries taken after 10.00am.

There will be No Parking on the Knock Road, Carncullagh Road, and Castlecatt Road within the 30mph village limits on Saturday. Similarly, there will be No Parking on the Bregagh Road between its junctions with the Ballinlea and Ballykenver Roads. Competitors and spectators should use the designated Car Parks which will be well signed posted.

For further information visit www.springwellrunners.com, www.marathonmac2012.com or find us on Facebook.