VIDEO: Belfast City Marathon
OVER 17,000 pairs of pounding feet reverberated around the streets of Belfast.
Despite the damp and gloomy conditions on Monday, the number of competitors marked a new record for the annual May Day city marathon.
Among the professionals, runners from Kenya, Ukraine, north America and eastern Europe took up pole position outside Belfast City Hall for the early 9am start.
MARATHON RESULTS & FINISHING TIMES
PICTURE GALLERY - 2009 MARATHON
Under starting orders from Belfast Mayor Tom Hartley, completion of the 26-mile slog seemed a long way off but the spirits were certainly high.
Thousands participated for chosen charities while others simply took part just for the fun of it.
The route - similar to last year - encompassed many city thoroughfares, including the Hollywood Road, Sydenham Bypass, Falls Road, Antrim Road, Duncrue Street and the Ravenhill Road.
Almost 3,000 completed the full course, with many competitors opting for the shorter relay format.
Marathon organiser Danny O'Connor said: "Road racing is one of the the fastest growing sports and this is evidenced by the absolutely high interest in this year's marathon."
Kenya's John Mutai romped home first for his third consecutive victory on the streets of Northern Ireland's capital city, crossing the finishing line at Ormeau Park with a finishing time of 2 hours 17 minutes and 35 seconds.
Compatriat Joyce Kandia claimed the womens' title.
Alan McCullough, brother of Ulster boxer Wayne, was the first local competitor to finish, registering the fifth best time of 2 hours 33 minutes and 9 seconds.
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Weather for Belfast
Tuesday 14 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 6 C to 9 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 5 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North west
