Workington’s half marathon is set to make a return for the first time in 40 years.
It is being run as part of the town’s Festival of Running in August this year which will offer events suitable for all ages and abilities.
Workington Town Council is teaming up with Cumberland Athletics Club to organise the festival on August 4, with people able to take part in a one kilometre fun run, five kilometre run, 10k or the half marathon.
Entrants in the one kilometre fun run have the option of wearing fancy dress with a prize for the best costume.
Councillor Ellie Wood, chair of Workington Town Council’s culture and community committee, said: “We are delighted to be able to bring the half marathon back to Workington after 40 years!
“The Festival of Running event has something for everyone; a one kilometre fun run, five kilometre run and 10k, plus the new half marathon, all of which finish with a lap around the Reds pitch.
“There will be medals for finishers, plus certificates and prizes, plus crafts and food and drink in the Reds clubhouse. Even if you are not running, come along and show your support.”
The festival will be sponsored by mineral water company Aqua Pura, with maps sponsored by David Allen IT Solutions and Jim Walton Penrith Ltd.
The one kilometre event is free for anyone to enter, while the five kilometre, 10k and half marathon require entry fees of £8, £14 and £24 respectively. There is a maximum entry of 200 people for each event.
UKA affiliated runners will get a £2 discount and £2 discount is provided to runners entering both the 5K and 10K races online. There will be an additional £3 charge for entries on the day.
The half marathon will begin at 9.30am followed by the 10k at noon, the 5k at 1.30pm and the 1k fun run at 2.30pm. Registration will be open from 8am to 2pm.
Adults accompanying a child do not need to enter the one kilometre event or run with a number, unless a medal is specifically required. This will provide more capacity for children to take part.
Dan Wilson, chair of Cumberland AC, said: “I’m really excited about the Festival of Running, especially the addition of the half marathon.
“Running is brilliant for mental and physical health so we want to get as many people involved as possible.
“Whether you’re already a quick runner hunting a new PB, or a complete novice looking to start your running journey, there’s something for you at the Workington Festival of Running.”
A prize presentation will take place once all runners have completed each race, with prizes awarded for overall and category positions.
The first male and female runner in the half marathon will receive a trophy and all runners in the half marathon, 10k and five kilometre will receive medals, certificates and drawstring bags.
Runners taking part in the half marathon and 10k will get a free drink and snack on completion of their race.
Free massages will also be available throughout the day.
To register for any of the events go to: https://racebest.com/races/ssygt
