Runners and walkers across Ards and North Down are being encouraged to pick up their pace and get training for this year’s Ards Half Marathon and Walk on Friday 24 June 2016.
The popular race, which is now in its ninth year, has attained Championship status from Athletics Northern Ireland (NI), giving a stamp of approval from the governing body and signifying the level of professionalism by the organiser, Ards and North Down Borough Council.
A generous prize fund of almost £3000, with a top prize of £400 for the first male and female runner to complete the 13.1 mile route, is available. Athletics NI will also present the top three male and female competitors and top three male and female club teams with medals to mark their achievement.
Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, is delighted that the race has been granted Championship status. He said: “The Ards Half Marathon and Walk is always popular, with up to 1,000 runners and walkers typically taking part each year. It is a huge honour to be awarded Championship status by Athletics NI for the third time – an accolade that only one race in the country can receive each year.
“The award speaks of the standard of the race, including its distance measurement, provision of facilities such as toilets and first aid and level of stewarding and policing. It recognises also the high level of professionalism demonstrated by the council staff that organise the event. I couldn’t be prouder!”
David Seaton, Chairman of Athletics Northern Ireland, added:Â “Athletics Northern Ireland is very pleased to award Championship status to the 2016 Ards Half Marathon. Over the years this race has enjoyed a great reputation as one of the ‘must do’ events on the local half marathon calendar.
“Always well organised, and with generous prizes for both male and female competitors, the event appeals to both club runners and joggers alike. I am sure the 2016 race will attract plenty of support from previous competitors, plus those interested in taking on the infamous Scrabo Hill for the first time!”
The Ards Half Marathon and Walk takes place on Friday 24 June 2016 at 6.30pm. To book a place visit:
or pick up a form at the council offices at:
Church Street, Newtownards or The Town Hall, Bangor Castle or at Ards Leisure Centre.
