Sports clubs unite to get more people on the run

THREE of the borough’s sports clubs have joined together to support this year’s Rochdale Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run.

Middleton Harriers, Rochdale Harriers and Rochdale Triathlon Club have teamed up to organise this year’s event alongside the council.

The three clubs, who have hundreds of members across the borough and years of race organising experience,e are already preparing for the big day.

Coun Janet Emsley, the council’s cabinet member for culture, health and wellbeing, said: “We’re keen to see this event grow and pleased to now be working with three of our local sports clubs who together have the experience, resources and members to help this popular event move to the next level.

“Each club brings something different that will benefit the race and our runners and I am looking forward to working with them. One of the council’s priorities is to encourage more people to get active and participate in sports whatever their level, so once again with our half marathon, 10K and mile fun run there is something for everyone. Mass participation events of this nature are proven to help inspire people to get active whilst making positive contributions to the local economy.”

Phil Roberts, Chairman of Rochdale Harriers said they are excited about this year’s new 10K route. He added: “We’re pleased to be involved, it’s great to be able to put something back into the town by supporting the event and we’re all looking forward to it.”

The event returns on Sunday, October 8, and includes three routes setting off from the town centre.

Runners who enter before 31 March can take advantage of special ‘early bird’ entry prices – the lowest in the event’s history.

Half Marathon places cost £24.40 for club-runners, £26.40 for non-club runners, while the 10K is £15.60 for club runners, £17.60 for non-club runners, with all prices including the booking fee. Fun Run entry opens in June.

Finishers will receive a medal, technical t-shirt and goody bag.

“With these three clubs on board we have access to decades of experience in organising running events in the borough and I’m looking forward to our best year yet,” Coun Emsley added.

To enter online visitrochdale.gov.uk/half. ●●Coun Janet Emsley with Geraldine Kirk from Middleton Harriers, Kevin McGilbarry from Rochdale Triathlon Club and Phil Roberts, chairman of Rochdale Harriers, ahead of the Rochdale Half Marathon