On your marks for the annual Lisburn Half Marathon and Fun Run

At the launch of the 2015 Coca-Cola Run Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run are: (l-r) Ryan McDermott, Irish Cross Country Champion; the Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Andrew Ewing; Alderman Paul Porter, Chairman of the Council's Leisure Services Committee and Sarah Smith, Coca Cola. The event takes place on the 17th June 2015.

This year there is a new faster Half Marathon route, which is very exciting although still presenting a challenge for regular runners and new participants.

Event organiser, Lisburn City Council and sponsor, Coca-Cola are excited about the changes to one of Northern Ireland’s largest sporting participation events.

Alderman Paul Porter, Chairman of the Council’s Leisure Services Committee, speaking at the launch, said: “Running a half marathon is both a physical and mental challenge and some runners use this event as preparation for a full marathon.

“This established event is one of Lisburn’s sporting highlights and thousands line the streets to support the runners taking part.

“There is something to suit everyone with three different race options.

“So whether you are a professional, competitive or recreational road runner, then this is the event for you.

“I would like to thank the event sponsor Coca-Cola and supporting sponsor Lagan Valley LeisurePlex. Such support is vital to ensure a successful event.

“I look forward to attending on the 17th June and supporting everyone. There’s always a great atmosphere and a real sense of sporting spirit,” he concluded.

To register for any of the three races simply log on to www.lisburnhalfmarathon.com and complete the online application.

The Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Andrew Ewing, also present at the launch, added: “Running has become a very popular exercise regime with the ‘Couch to 5K’ initiative taking place across Northern Ireland and our Park Run in Wallace Park have enticed many individuals starting to run for perhaps the first time as adults.

“The Council would like to see all the participants pass the finishing line in ‘personal best times’ and it hopes that all supporters will get into the spirit, enjoying the activities and atmosphere on the evening.”

Coca-Cola has partnered with Lisburn City Council on this event for many years and been title sponsor since 2007.

Gillian Shields, Community Investment Manager, Coca-Cola HBC Northern Ireland, said: “Lisburn has been the home of Coca-Cola HBC for over 45 years and we are proud to once again be part of an event which is focussed just as much on community spirit as it is on promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in the city.

“Coca-Cola is commitment to investing in projects which provide an opportunity for everyone, irrespective of ability or age, to get out and get active and the 2015 Run Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run does exactly that.”

Printed application forms are also available from Lisburn City Council Leisure facilities, local sports shops, Sport NI and various outlets displaying the Coca-Cola Lisburn Half Marathon poster.