Half-marathon expected to run again later in year

The Larne Half-Marathon - the biggest event in the town’s sporting calendar - had to be postponed at the weekend because of the wintry weather which blasted through parts of Northern Ireland.

The race was planned for Saturday (March 23) and looked set to defy the odds and get the go-ahead, until an 11th-hour call-off based on police advice. The Times understands a new date in June is currently being considered as an option for the 2013 event.

The popular race attracts comptetitors from all over the country with over 1,300 people taking part last year.

The postponement was made on Friday evening, despite the course being clear of snow.

A statement posted on the race website read: “Based on the current weather situation around the province we are regrettably having to follow the advice given by the PSNI and postpone the Larne Half-Marathon to another date. All entries remain valid and the new date will be advised in the coming days.”

While there was disapointment at the race not getting the green light, other running clubs showed their support for the decision and the hard work of Larne Athletic Club.

North Belfast Harriers tweeted: “Gutted for our friends @larneac - but a sensible decision in the circumstances!” Carrick-based Seapark Athletic Club also wrote on Twitter: “Sorry to hear that the @larneac half-marathon has been called off. It is, however, the right decision under the circumstances.”

In 2001 the half-marathon was cancelled due to an outbreak of foot and mouth disease.

n Other sports were also hit by the snow with all rugby, hockey and football called off in the town.

Larne FC’s scheduled match away to Dergview was put back too, due to the double-postponement of Northern Ireland’s World Cup qualifier with Russia at Windsor Park.