FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Entries Open For Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon
Ireland's most decorated athlete, Sonia O'Sullivan, paid a whirlwind visit
to Belfast today (Thursday 10 September), to officially declare entries
open for the 2010 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon.
And organisers already are looking to build on the growing success of the
event by bringing more people than ever before onto the streets of Belfast
next May Day Bank Holiday Monday (3 May 2010).
"We have gone from strength to strength over the past six years, with our
entry numbers increasing every year," said Danny O'Connor, Chairman of the
Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon Organising Committee.
"In the past six years, we have more than doubled the number of people
taking part in the event, and in 2009 entry levels in some of our events
were up by between 20 and 33 per cent. A record-breaking 17,500 people
took part in the 2009 Marathon – and we're very confident that we can break
the 20,000 barrier in 2010."
Former Olympics silver medallist and world champion, Sonia O'Sullivan,
encouraged as many people as possible to take up the challenge of competing
in 2010, whether it be in the fun run, a leg of the relay, walking or going
the full 26 miles.
"A marathon is a great opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to
get involved with sports while getting together for a fun day out," said
Sonia, speaking on behalf of Concern, one of the 2010 Deep RiverRock
Belfast City Marathon's two official charities.
"Taking part can give you a great sense of achievement and provides an
excellent opportunity to raise money for some of the world's most worthy
causes. I would very much encourage everyone to participate too."
Danny O'Connor confirmed that the Marathon was once again offering ten per
cent off the full entry fee for entries received by 9 October, and that the
restructured prize fund – which offers more rewards for local athletes – is
to be retained, due to its popularity.
"Obviously, we'll still be seeking to attract some of the elite overseas
athletes, but once again we're making more money available to the ‘home'
side, so there are going to be more prizes, and so more incentives, for our
own local athletes," he said.
Danny also revealed that, this year, everyone can get into the spirit of
the Marathon at the very outset of their training programme.
"Last year, we launched our first ever commemorative T-shirt, which proved
very popular with our runners: so, this year, we will have a full range of
Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon branded merchandise available."
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Naomi Long, spoke of her high regard
for everyone who has taken part in the marathon over the years.
"It is hard to believe that it is some 29 years since Belfast City Council,
and our partners, took the decision to stage the first Belfast City
Marathon," she said.
"Over the intervening years, the event has gone from strength to strength.
When other marathons fell by the wayside, Belfast continued to grow. Now,
with the resurgence of interest in marathon running, we are benefiting from
record entry numbers each and every year," continued the Lord Mayor.
"While the marathon is undoubtedly a serious business, especially for
competitive runners, it is also about having fun and enjoying yourself –
whether you are a serious runner, or taking part in the relay with a team
of friends or just cheering the runners along.
"Belfast, quite rightly, is regarded as one of the world's friendliest
marathons, and runners from near and far are always encouraged by the
warmth of the support they find in all four corners of our city. Once
again, I would urge the people of Belfast to turn out and support the
runners on May Day – whether it be by offering a glass of water or a slice
of fruit, or merely an encouraging word," concluded Councillor Long.
Danny O'Connor also pointed out that the Deep RiverRock Belfast City
Marathon is the biggest single participatory sporting event in Northern
Ireland.
"It is also one of the biggest charity fundraising events, with almost
every runner or walker taking part to benefit their favourite charity.
Such has been the huge success of the Marathon's fundraising efforts over
the years that, for 2010, we have decided to support not one but two
official charities – Concern Worldwide and Marie Curie Cancer Care,"
announced Danny.
Last week, Deep RiverRock confirmed that they were renewing their title
sponsorship for a further three years, until 2012.
Tara O' Rourke, Senior Brand Manager with Deep RiverRock water, said she
was delighted that the brand was renewing its partnership with one of
Northern Ireland's premier sporting events.
"We are delighted that Deep RiverRock is supporting the Belfast City
Marathon as Title Sponsor for the fourth consecutive year. This Marathon
is a well established event and we continue to work closely with the
Marathon organisers to build on the success of previous years. It is
fantastic that the race attracts world class athletes to Belfast along with
inspiring so many local people to be active, whilst raising much needed
funds for extremely worthwhile charities."
Dominic Walsh, Chair of Sport Northern Ireland, is confident that the 2010
event will be even bigger and better than ever.
"Every year, the Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon grows in strength and
stature and Sport Northern Ireland is once again delighted to be able to
support it. The event has secured its place in the hearts and minds of the
community as one of the biggest in the sporting calendar that can be
enjoyed by all – no matter what ability.
"It continues to be a great day out for all involved; competitors and
spectators alike. And I would also like to pay tribute to the unsung
heroes of the event, the volunteers. It is a definitely a step forward in
creating a healthier and more active society. I look forward to another
superb event, and would encourage as many people as possible to take to the
streets of Belfast, helping us to break last year's participation records."
The Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon is also sponsored by Aer Lingus,
Belfast City Council, Charles Hurst Renault, New Balance, Sport Northern
Ireland, Tayto, Translink and Up and Running. Media partners are the Daily
Mirror and U105. Official accommodation partner is Premier Inn.
The 2010 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon is organised by Belfast City
Marathon Ltd., in partnership with Athletics Northern Ireland, Belfast City
Council, the Department for Regional Development, Newtownabbey Borough
Council, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Sustrans and Translink.
Entries for the 2010 Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon officially open
today (Thursday 10 September). For further information, including online
entry, training tips and much more, log on to www.belfastcitymarathon.com.
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