Derry’s 2024 Waterside Half Marathon will incorporate the city’s four bridges for the first time ever.
Unveiled by race organisers this week, the 21k route will incorporate Craigavon Bridge, Pennyburn Bridge, Foyle Bridge and the Peace Bridge.
One of Ireland’s longest running athletics events, this year’s race takes place on Sunday September 1 and is set to be the biggest in its history with an expanded field.
The new route was designed after feedback from runners who took part in last year’s event was taken into consideration and in consultation with local running clubs.
The majority of the popular marathon’s scenic route will straddle the River Foyle and use Derry’s ever expanding greenway network.
It is envisaged the new route will make the Waterside Half Marathon a spectator friendly experience and keep traffic disruption to a minimum.
Festival and Events Manager at Derry City and Strabane District Council Jacqueline Whoriskey said Strathfoyle Village, a new element to last year’s event, has been retained.
“The race again finishes with a grandstand finish in Ebrington Square, where runners will run up the mall flanked by hundreds of supporters,” said Ms Whoriskey.
She added: “I am pleased race organisers were able to offer runners the chance to race through new sections of the city’s riverfront.
“The event sold out weeks in advance last year so we wanted to develop a course that could accommodate more runners.
“Entries have already passed the 2,300 mark, there are around 200 left but we would expect those to be snapped up in the few days and we recommend you register now to avoid disappointment.
“We can see from the registrations it is an event, which runners come back to take part in year after year and many runners who gave their feedback commented on how good the atmosphere is,” said Ms Whoriskey.
The cost of entry for the 41st edition of the Waterside Half Marathon is £27 per runner or £70 for a three person relay team and every finisher will receive a commemorative medal and t shirt.
Registrations for the last remaining places are open now here where the full route and relay changeover points can be viewed.
