– Record year expected as entry numbers already up 50% compared to last year –
The organizers of the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon are changing the race course in 2010, taking out the punishing hills along the 26.2 mile route to make it flatter and more enjoyable for all those taking part.
On the back of feedback from runners and relay teams, the main change to the 2010 route is the exclusion of the energy sapping uphill on Model Farm Road from Inchigaggin Bridge out to Nangles Nursery and the tough downhill after that on Church Hill. To compensate for the loss of two miles in the western section, the new route takes in the popular walkway amenity along the Lough Mahon waterfront and the Rochestown/Blackrock section of the old Passage railway line. Two miles out from the finish line, the new route also sees a shift from the Western Road at the Sacred Heart Church to the Mardyke, a stretch of road with a more favourable camber for runners. Full map and course details are available to download on the marathon’s brand new ‘social media hub’ at www.readysteadycork.ie
A flying start to entries
Running a marathon must have been top of the new year resolutions list for many people this year if entry numbers this year are to go by – the number of people registering to take part in the Bord Gais Energy Cork City Marathon this year is double the number of submissions received in the same period (January – February) last year. Meanwhile, registrations for the marathon relay race have trebled compared to last year’s figures which puts the event on track to reach a record 10,000 people to take part on June 7th. Commenting on the course and surge in numbers, Jim O’Donovan, Race Director of the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon said “these significant changes have produced a flatter, more even course, which lends itself to the exciting prospect of a faster finish this year and maybe even a record time. Thanks to all the runners who’ve given us some great feedback based on their experience over the last few years – this is a marathon for everyone and whether you’re running, jogging or walking it, this year is gearing up to be the best and biggest year ever! Seeing the numbers surge since Christmas was a fantastic result and this will help us achieve our target of raising €3m of vital funds for charity.”
Relay course:
The 2009 relay changeover points have not been changed. The modifications to the course, however, mean that the distances between the relay points have changed.
The shortest leg is now the fifth and final stage, at about 4.5 miles long. It’s about a mile longer than the 2009 short leg, but to make up for that you get honour of the wonderful finish on St Patrick’s Street! The longest stage for 2010 is the third stage, from Ringmahon Road to Victoria Road, measuring about 5.8 miles on a very flat surface.
For more information please contact Rhona Cashman, H+A Marketing + PR. Telephone: 021-4666200 / 087 6978477. Email: rcashman@hagroup.ie