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Join rugby legend for half marathon
WALES rugby legend Shane Williams will dust off his running shoes to take part in the Merthyr Half Marathon this spring.
The event, in its third year in this format and set to take place on March 26, again hopes to see more than 1,000 people take part, and promises this year to be bigger and better than ever.
In 2015, Julien MacDonald opened proceedings, while last year the race boasted Andy Powell and Lee Selby and the charitable event has so far donated £1,600 to Velindre Cancer Centre.
Before 2015’s race, no events of this type had been held in more than 20 years, and organiser Sarah Draper said: “Each year we are blown away with the support at the race.
“So many local people come out to cheer the runners on, its always an electric atmosphere. Our aim has always been to make it affordable and fun to attract those that wouldn’t necessarily enter. Its such a great achievement to be proud of.
It’s not Williams’ first long distance run, and he has in the past taken part in the London Marathon, Cardiff Half Marathon as well as Iron Man Wales.
Ms Draper added: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Shane Williams MBE has agreed to attend and also run the race. He was really impressed with our Merthyr Girls Can campaign we offer so was happy to help out.
“He’s bringing some friends along to run it too and they’re very much looking forward to trying out the route. It’s going to be a great day!” March 20, 2017. Entries can be made in advance only, and organisers have urged people to sign up as soon as possible, because places are going quickly. It will take runners from Merthyr College down the Trevithick Trail then on to the Taff trail and back up to Merthyr, a “scenic trail” route around the area. It’s a 13.1 mile route, and there will be a water stop around every three miles. Yes, Merthyr Running Club is offering full training for the event. To find out more, visit their Facebook page. Those taking part will get a medal, T-shirt and goody bag. For affiliated runners, it’s £23 and for unaffiliated, it’s £25. The main race will begin from outside Merthyr College at 10am. Before that, kids’ races will get underway with the start times staggered for each age group. Children running can enter the race on the day.