Legendary runners launch Larne’s Antrim Coast Half-Marathon

A host of distance running stars have already confirmed their place immediately in the starting line up for the Larne Athletic Club-organised event on Sunday, August 29.

Participants will include this year’s women’s race winner, Lily Partridge, Berlin Marathon fourth placer Scott Overall, local favourite and Commonwealth Games fourth place finisher Kev Seaward, as well as Team England.

With global headline stars set to be announced in the new year, it promises to be one of the leading half marathons in Europe in 2021.

The organisers stated: “The 2020 elite only race was streamed live to over 40,000 viewers and saw 35 of the 62 runners run personal bests, making it the fastest half marathon ever in Ireland and the fastest domestic half marathon ever in the UK with second and third finishers in the men’s race ranking third and fourth in the UK all-time list.

“There were also age group world records for Tommy Hughes and Gary O’Hanlon. Irish all-comers records were also set by 2020 race winners Sir Mo Farah Farah in 60 min 27 sec and Lily Partridge in 71:36 seconds.”

The newly-certified IAAF course is one of the fastest half marathons anywhere in the world - set in the stunning backdrop of the Antrim Coast Road - and race organisers have set the bold ambition this year of becoming the first half marathon ever in Ireland to run a sub 60 minute men’s and sub 70 minute women’s race.

The club added: “Other big news will be welcoming back the masses in which record numbers are already confirmed for the 2021 event. In light of this year’s global pandemic, the event is now pleased to offer every runner the opportunity to ensure their entry in case of cancellation but are optimistic that the masses will all get to run the picturesque course.

“New for 2021, and launching in the beginning of March will be the first ever P&O Antrim Coast Kid’s mini marathon, where all age groups will be welcome and will be joined by some of our headline stars on the day, so please watch out for further news on all official race platforms and website.”

Click here to read: Over 2,100 athletes at Larne Half-Marathon

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