Rochdale half marathon, 10K and fun run this August

Fitness Academy students Alex Jobson, Tricia Roberts, Lizzie Gamwell and Madison Stotthard at the town hall during the launch of Rochdale half marathon, 10K and fun run

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Rochdale will stage a half marathon, 10K and 1 mile fun run for the first time in August.

The new event will be staged on Sunday 23 August and is now open for entries at:

http://www.rochdale.gov.uk/events_and_activities/rochdale_hm.aspx

Runners will get on their marks by Rochdale Town Hall and set out on traffic-free courses taking in town and countryside.

The 10K route leaves the Esplanade along Entwisle road, before heading towards Milnrow via Albert Royds Street. It then heads up Buckley Hill Lane, turning near its end before returning to the town hall.

The half marathon does the same route except the turning point is further down Buckley Hill Lane and it’s a two lap course.

The fun run is a flat mile, heading out along Entwisle Road and turning back just after Rochdale Leisure Centre.

The Mayor Carol Wardle said she’s proud the event is being staged in Rochdale: “We have fantastic routes and I’m sure this will be a really special day that will further enhance our reputation of staging fabulous events.

"People will be coming here from across the region and beyond, bringing friends and family with them so it’s great news for the town.

"We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to Rochdale and celebrating this first year with sponsors, volunteers, participants and spectators who I am sure will make it something we very much want to see becoming an annual race.”

The event is being staged by Rochdale Borough Council in partnership with race organiser Cannonball Events.

Council Event Manager Sue Milne said: “Entries are coming in fast, and it’s promising to be an incredible event.

"With a one mile and 10K as well as the half marathon there’s something for every ability.

"I also hope a lot of people come down and support our runners especially as a lot of them will be doing it for charity.”

John Lloyd from Cannonball Events said: “We have been looking to organise a half marathon in the region for some time and I’m really pleased we’re now able to bring this new event to Rochdale. It’s a scenic route encompassing urban areas, historic landmarks and beautiful scenery.

"I want this race to be one that people will be excited about and become a must do event on the running calendar."

1,000 places are available for the half marathon, 1,000 for the 10K and 500 for the fun run.

All three races are available to enter online at:

http://www.rochdale.gov.uk/events_and_activities/rochdale_hm.aspx