Go online for tour of marathon route

RUNNERS tackling this year’s Rochdale Half Marathon can take a virtual tour of the course.

Organisers have released a video of the new race routes so that those taking part can familiarise themselves with the course before lacing up their trainers.

For the event’s third year, the routes have been re-designed, taking in Hollingworth Lake, Broadfield Park, Kingsway Business Park, the Stanney Brook Corridor and Rochdale Canal.

Already more than 300 runners have registered for places for the half marathon, 10k and fun run on Sunday, October 8.

The races, sponsored by Williams BMW, is organised by Middleton Harriers, Rochdale Harriers and Rochdale Triathlon Club supported by the council.

Nick Barton from Rochdale Harriers said: “Our half marathon and 10K courses are even more scenic than last year, with very good running conditions underfoot.

“They both have long, flat straight sections that will be great for pacing and maintaining your speed.

“The new routes take in stunning scenery, the area’s rich history, the beauty of Hollingworth Lake and the canal as well as the Green Flag Award winning Broadfield Park and there aren’t many better start and finish points than the iconic Grade One Rochdale Town Hall.”

To view the routes, prizes and enter online visit rochdale.gov.uk/run.