Annual half marathon and fun run entries are now open

At the launch of the 2016 Coca-Cola Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run is; l-r John Devlin, Marathon Runner and Active Communities Athletics Coach, Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Thomas Beckett, Chairman of the Leisure & Community Development Committee, Alderman Paul Porter, and Sarah Smith, PR Coordinator at Coca-Cola HBC Northern Ireland.

The event will take place on Wednesday 15th June, commencing at 6.30pm, from Lagan Valley LeisurePlex.

Supported by title sponsors, Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, and new media partner, Cool FM, entry for the event is now open.

The annual and ever-popular running event consists of three different races; the half marathon, the 10K road race and the fun run. These different races offer something to suit running enthusiasts of all levels.

Both the half marathon and the 10K road race utilise a new ‘flat & fast’ route, which is ideal for competitive runners aiming for personal bests and beginners alike, while the fun run is perfect for family and friends looking to get active in a fun group environment.

Running enthusiasts can register online by visiting the new-look Lisburn Half Marathon website, lisburnhalfmarathon.com.

The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Thomas Beckett, said: “I am absolutely delighted to be a part of the official launch for the 2016 Coca-Cola Lisburn Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run.

“This event is one of the most popular in the running calendar and one that I am very much looking forward to.

“As a keen runner myself and having completed a number of half marathons, I would like to encourage everyone to get involved. Running has many health related benefits, both physically and mentally, and with the introduction of our parkrun in Wallace Park and the junior parkrun in Moira Demesne, I expect this year’s event to be even bigger and better.”

Chairman of the Leisure and Community Development Committee, Alderman Paul Porter said: “Running in Northern Ireland is at an all-time high and with the ever growing focus for everyone to get active and lead a healthier lifestyle, this event provides the perfect stepping stone to do just that.

“It caters for all levels and abilities, whether you are preparing for a full marathon or taking on your first run, there is a challenge for everyone.”

Sarah Smith, PR Coordinator for Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company, said: “Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company is delighted once again to be title sponsor of the Lisburn Half Marathon.

“Attracting over 6,000 participants annually including elite athletes, casual fun runners and wheelchair users this event is focussed just as much on community spirit as it is on promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.”

For details on the Half Marathon, 10K Road Race and Fun Run or to register online, visit lisburnhalfmarathon.com.

Printed application forms will be available from Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council leisure and community facilities, local sports shops and other outlets across the City.