But not content with a 20% increase in entries, race organisers Run4Wales are now looking for record crowds to line to new route that takes in many of the capital’s iconic sites.
“Entries closed last week and we were delighted with the response from the athletes. The new course obviously inspired them to sign-up in record numbers,” said race director Steve Brace.
“We’re starting in front of Cardiff Castle, running through Penarth marina, going over the Barrage, coming past the Doctor Who Experience and the Senydd, through Roal Dahl Plas, along Lloyd George Avenue, around Roath Park Lake and finishing in the Civic Centre.
“It is a superb route for the runners to take in the sights of Cardiff and it is flatter and faster than ever before. The race at the front of the field, which includes the Welsh Championships, will be stronger than ever and we are delighted at the rise in numbers.”
The former World half and full marathon record holder Steve Jones is flying in from his American home in Columbus, Ohio, to take part and the reigning Commonwealth Games marathon champion John Kelai will also be in the field.
Kelai who won the Commonwealth title in Delhi in 2010 will be joined by countryman and defending Lloyds TSB Cardiff Half Marathon Champion Edwin Kiptoo in the field, with Kiptoo hoping to break the 60minute barrier in the capital next month.
“With more than 18,000 entries the Cardiff Half-Marathon is growing into one of the biggest and best road races in the UK. There are 35,000 runners in the London Marathon and last weekend the Great North Run had an amazing 55,000,” said Brace.
“Our goal is to take this event up to 30,000 athletes in the not too distant future and this year’s increase proves it is possible. All we need now are for the crowds to come out and give each and every runner the encouragement they need to do themselves proud.
“The start and finish areas will be natural spectator points, but Penarth Marina, Cardiff Bay, Lloyd George Avenue and Roath Park also provide excellent viewing and cheering points. The Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer showed how fanatical British sports fans are and it is that spirit and support we hope to see on Sunday, 14 October.”
Run4Wales are hoping to see up to 50,000 people lining the route to help celebrate the 10th anniversary of Wales’ biggest sporting event and for the Welsh capital to prove it can match the scenes seen in London and Gateshead.
0 comments:
Post a Comment