Southend Sport

Runners race to join event

By Dick Marshall

9:45am Tuesday 8th June 2010

MORE than 2,000 runners have already signed up for the Southend Half-Marathon this weekend.

And race organisers are calling on local residents to support the big day.

The Southend Half-Marathon on Sunday, in aid of Havens Hospices, is now in its 14th year.

This year around 2,000 runners have already signed up with more expected on the day, and it’s hoped £50,000 will be raised for the charity through sponsorship and donations.

Havens Hospices events manager Judy Grocott said: “We appreciate the support and patience from local residents for the Southend Half-Marathon.

“It is a landmark event for the town and a key fundraiser for the charity.

“Hopefully our neighbours will help us cheer on the runners to boost their morale!”

The event is one of the largest athletics races in the south east and attracts athletes ranging from novices to professionals.

Starting at 10am from Shoebury East Beach, the near 13-mile route is mostly flat and takes in parts of the Southend coast line.

Online entry closed yesterday, but people can enter on the day, costing £18 for non-club affiliated participants to enter, and £16 for those runners affiliated to a club.

These entry fees cover the cost of hosting the event, so participants are encouraged to ask friends and family for sponsorship to help Havens Hospices continue caring for local adults, children and their families.

Alongside the Southend Half Marathon there is a 3K fun run starting at 10.15am.

The brand new route takes fun runners along the coastal path by the Watch Tower, around the lake and back to East Beach.

Sponsored by BTMK Solicitors, there are medals and tee-shirts for each finisher. Entry for this is £4 on the day.

As usual, there will also be a number of temporary road closures during the half-marathon. These are as follows: George Street: 9.45-13.00; Rampart Terrace: 9.45-13.00; Rampart Street: 9.45-10.15; High Street-Smith Street: 9.45-10.15; Smith Street-Campfield Road: 9.45-10.30; New Garrison Road and all roads within Garrison (except New Barge Pier Road): 09.55-10.30.

Rolling sweepers will open roads as soon as the last runner has passed through to Ness Road.

Ness Road (south of Church Road)-seafront (turning point):10.00-13.00; Maplin Way-Church Road:10.00-13.00; New Barge Pier Road (south of Magazine Road): 10.00-13.00.

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