Around 500 runners are expected to take part in the SSE Airtricity 10 Mile Challenge in Co. Derry~Londonderry on Sunday 27th April. The race is the second of two warm-up events for the SSE Airtricity Walled City Marathon on Sunday 1st June.
The race will start and finish in the historic Ebrington Square, bringing the runners over the Peace Bridge and alongside the River Foyle, taking in stunning views of the city’s waterfront roads and paths along the way. The first of the two warm-up events, the SSE Airtricity 10k Challenge, took place last month and saw more than 350 people compete in a high quality race.
Race director Noel McMonagle said: “We were delighted with the response for the 10k Challenge, and we’re hoping for an even better turnout this time around. The 10k had such a tight finish and we’re expecting another highly competeitive race. This is the last stop before the big one in June and judging by the response rate so far, this year’s SSE Airtricity Walled City Marathon will be an event to remember.”
SSE Airtricity is sponsoring the Walled City Marathon for the second year running. Last year, £250,000 was raised for charity, with 1,800 runners and 10,000 spectators turning out on the day. Following the success of the 2013 race, nearly 2,000 runners have already signed up to compete in this year’s event.
In anticipation of the marathon, SSE Airtricity’s Donal Gormley commented: “SSE Airtricity is delighted to be involved with the Walled City Marathon once again. Last year was a real spectacle. Everyone from the runners and stewards to the entertainers and volunteers created a carnival atmosphere, and I’m looking forward to taking on the course this year myself. The race truly encapsulates the positive energy that SSE Airtricity is bringing to Northern Ireland.”
Runners can sign-up for the 10 Mile Challenge by emailing info@walledcitymarathon.com with their name, age (on race day) and telephone number. Entries will also be taken on the morning of the race.
Go to www.thewalledcitymarathon.com for more information on the 10 Mile Challenge and the SSE Airtricity Walled City Marathon in June.