Large Turnout Expected for Donegal Marathon This Weekend

The 2016 Donegal Marathon takes place this Sunday, 21 August with a large turnout expected. The race gets underway at 9.20am and will be officially launched by the winner of the Joule Donegal International Rally, Manus Kelly. Online registration closes on Friday, 19th August and final registration and collection of race packs, T-shirts and goodie bags takes place on Saturday 20th at the Aura Leisure Centre, Letterkenny from 2.00 – 6.00pm. Participants are advised that no registrations will be accepted on the morning of the race.
The Donegal Marathon route takes runners and walkers around the town of Letterkenny and the New Mills area. Road disruptions will be kept to a minimum but organisers are advising that there may be traffic delays and diversions will be put in place from 9.00am on Sunday. Although no road closures will be in place, there will be restricted access to the Oldtown bridge area during the race with motorists on the Rashedoge/Newmills to Oldtown area also asked to use the Conwal R250 road where possible for participant’s safety. The Donegal Marathon route can be accessed online via www.donegalmarathon.ie.
Thanking people across the county for their continued support, Dessie Larkin, Chairperson of the Donegal Marathon, said: “The Donegal Marathon is the ‘People’s Marathon’ and we’d like to thank and acknowledge the support of the public, without whom this event wouldn’t be possible. Running has become so popular and there’s still time for anyone sitting on the fence to get on board. The Dublin Marathon has already sold out this year, but we’ll be accepting registrations until this Saturday. I’d also like to remind people that the Team Challenge Cup is a great way to experience a Marathon for anyone who doesn’t feel confident running the half or full race. We’ve been working with the Gardaí and race marshals to ensure the safety of everyone participating in the event including spectators and we’re looking forward to a great day. Hopefully the weather will be in our favour. I also want to thank the many physiotherapists from across Donegal who will be stationed at the Aura Leisure Centre giving runners complimentary pre and post treatments.”
In partnership with Letterkenny Community Development Project (CDP), the Donegal Marathon will host a family fun event at the Aura Leisure Centre on Sunday, 21. Taking place from 11.00am to 1.00pm, the fun day will include children’s face-painting, characters, games and much more.
Meanwhile, anyone who would like to get involved with the event and assist with any volunteer roles is asked to contact the Donegal Volunteer Centre on 074 91 26740. For more information on the Donegal Marathon and to register visit the Donegal Marathon website or Facebook page.
By bringing communities together through a community tourism initiative for the diaspora this event is supported in partnership with Donegal County Council, Fáilte Ireland and IPB Insurance.