Entries coming in fast for Waterside Half Marathon

All you runners and walkers out there are being encouraged to register in advance and be part of this hugely popular annual event.

Mayor, Cllr Brenda Stevenson commented that this year the event organisers, Derry City Council, are confident that the event will attract more participants than ever thanks to the growing popularity of running in the city and region.

Encouraging people to register and be part of the event, Mayor Stevenson said there is a range of categories available to suit all levels of fitness. As ever there is a strong family friendly focus in to encourage participants from all community backgrounds.

“The Waterside Half Marathon continues to be a hugely popular sporting event for the city and year on year continues to grow.

“We are particularly keen to see more relay teams taking part in the event and will be actively recruiting businesses, running clubs and community groups to get a team together and be part of this great event.

“I am hoping that a relay team to help raise awareness and funds for my two chosen charities – COS and Something Special – will also be participating in the relay race. The key message is for everyone to register their interest online as soon as possible.

“Full training schedules are available to download and with less than six weeks to go training needs to start right now.

“More importantly this event is about enjoying yourself and about getting out there, getting fit and improving your health and well-being,” she added.

Noel Munnis, Derry City Council, explained that there has been a lot of interest in the race this year. “We have been getting online entries since the end of March and with an entry limit of 1,600 runners we would encourage anyone thinking of taking part to register now. We will be using the improved 2013 course and will be hoping for a repeat of good weather conditions we had last year.

“While we do not have the 10 Mile Challenge Walk this year, the 2K Waterside Fun Run is being retained.

“We are confident that it’s going to be another hugely successful sporting event for the city.”

He said a key element of the event is the family focus.

“The main events provide a challenging experience for the participant but also a great spectator spectacle for friends, family and supporters.

“The Family Fun Run is organised specifically to encourage all members of the family to come along and be part of the day.”

Adding that the closing date for entries is 22 August, he said that although late entries will be accepted at an increased entry fee, no entries being taken on the day of the event.

Further details on the event and to register online and download the training schedule are available at www.derrycity.gov.uk/halfmarathon.