1000 and Counting ... Entries Still Coming in

Ealing Half Marathon on September 30th

More than 1,000 runners have signed up to take part in the inaugural Ealing Half Marathon.

 Organisers say they are delighted to hit the landmark, just 10 weeks after entries opened to the borough’s first event of its kind.

But they are calling for even more people to take on the challenge of running 13.1 miles to help them realise their goal of having a mass participation running event through the roads of Ealing on September 30.

Event director and Ealing resident Kelvin Walker says: “The response has been fantastic. We’ve had loads of interest from people right across London and further afield.

“A half marathon is a really good challenge. Although it sounds a long way, it’s within the capabilities of many people and we want everyone who is inspired by London’s Olympics to give it a go.  We’re also really pleased to have many runners choosing to fundraise for the Official Charity, Epilepsy Action and hope to raise a significant amount for this very worthy cause.”

The course, which is relatively flat, starts and ends in Lammas Park and Mr Walker hopes support from local people will create a great atmosphere.

Beginners can get help to kick-start their training through an eight-week training programme with Ealing Eagles running club, starting at 6.45pm on 25 April, on Ealing Green, near the entrance to Walpole Park.

The club also puts on weekly 3.5 and 4.5-mile training runs from Ealing Green at 7.30pm on Mondays and Wednesday, as well as longer distances on Sundays at 9am.

And those who are hoping to clock up a personal best can follow pacers from event vest partner Xempo, who will be leading groups aiming to hit target times ranging from1hr 30mins to 2hrs 15mins. The organisers are also extremely grateful to the support provided by local partners Move Clinics, Quit The Gym and Bodyline Studios.

But if the thought of running 21km fills you with dread, Mr Walker says you can still join in the fun.

“We are looking for dozens of volunteers to help the event go off smoothly,” he says.

“We want it to be a really special occasion for Ealing with as many people getting involved as possible.”

For more information about the Ealing Half Marathon, to enter or to volunteer visit here

3rd April 2012