Be quick off the mark to enter fun run
ENTRY for the fun run, which takes place alongside the Rochdale Half Marathon, is now open.
Runners of the one-mile race will take off just before those doing the half marathon and 10k will in the October event, which is sponsored by BMW.
Entries for this year’s race opened on Thursday, July 4 and organisers are urging those interested to sign up now before all slots are booked up. Last year the fun run saw a big surge in popularity, with over 200 runners taking part and even more are expected this October. With only 270 places available, early booking is advised as places are expected to be in high demand.
Councillor Janet Emsley cabinet member for neighbourhoods, community and culture at Rochdale Borough Council - who has taken part in the event for charity for the last four years - said: “The fun run is something for all the family to enjoy, and to help with your training there are parkruns in Heywood and Rochdale every Sunday.
“Last year was our biggest ever fun run and judging by the interest and enquiries we’ve had already there’s going to be a rush for places when registration opens for 2019. The fun run is something that almost everyone can take part in and we are hoping it will inspire more people to be active in a fun and family friendly environment.”
Setting out from the town hall, the fun run will take competitors through Broadfield Park, past the statue of Rochdale’s political giant John Bright and downhill to The Esplanade for the return to the finish line back at the town hall.
Once again Rochelle, mum to the borough’s Healthy Heroes superhero family, will be encouraging people to get active and sign up for the fun run, as well as taking part in the event herself.
Nick Barton from Rochdale Harriers, said: “Following feedback we’ve adjusted the timings of all three races, so any parents who are taking part in the half marathon or 10K will be able to watch their children in the fun run first.
“Broadfield Park is a real gem in a tranquil setting, yet just behind the town hall, traffic free and good underfoot. With plenty of flat sections it’s perfect for runners as well as spectators.”
The one-mile fun run, which has Springhill Hospice as its official charity, starts at 10am on Sunday, October 6.
Entry is £6.90 and all finishers will receive a Williams BMW Rochdale Fun Run medal. Enter at www.rochdale.gov.uk/run
The event is organised by Middleton Harriers, Rochdale Harriers and Rochdale Triathlon Club supported by Rochdale Borough Council.