Thousands of runners from around the globe will lace up at next month’s Mid and East Antrim – Antrim Coast Half Marathon.
Proudly supported by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, the world-class event takes place on Sunday 28 August – with a host of elite sporting stars taking to the starting line in Larne to race along the spectacular Antrim Coast Road.
Olympic champion Haile Gebrselassie, who won gold in the 10,000m at both Atlanta 1996 and Sydney 2000, will be present this year, following in the footsteps of Sir Mo Farah, who lit up the event previously.
The legendary Ethiopian runner will compete in the event’s one-mile street race on Saturday 27 August, with locals offered the opportunity to pit themselves against the very best in the world.
Haile will be joined in the one-mile race by British Olympian Jo Pavey, who is another inspirational figure.
Race director James McIlroy said the response for the 2022 half marathon has been superb to date, with entries from throughout Europe, Africa, Asia, America and Australia.
He said elite athletes are signing up in their droves due to stunning location and extremely fast times up for grabs along the Causeway Coastal Route. The BBC will broadcast the event live.
“The Mid and East Antrim – Antrim Coast Half Marathon really is going from strength to strength and the quality of competitors on board is testament to the incredible offering we have,” said James.
“We have all the ingredients for the ideal race and this year will be bigger and better than ever before.
“I commend Mid and East Antrim Borough Council for their ongoing support.”
As well as the race events, a raft of activities are planned in Larne throughout race weekend, including free family entertainment at Sandy Bay, and pop-up entertainment along the course route.
Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Alderman Noel Williams, said:
“We are delighted to be key sponsors of the half marathon which is a world-class event in Mid and East Antrim.
“This event really does put our Borough on the map and that is evidenced by the number of competitors travelling from so far afield to take part.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase Mid and East Antrim and our top class tourism and hospitality offering, as well as staging an elite sporting event which our community can get involved and participate in. I look forward to what promises to be a spectacular – and hopefully record-breaking – weekend.”
For more information on the Mid and East Antrim – Antrim Coast Half Marathon, visit: antrimcoasthalfmarathon.com