Bournemouth and Poole to host first Marathon Festival

Entries open today for a new running festival in Bournemouth and Poole which will see thousands of runners from all over the world take to the streets of the coastal resorts on October 5 and 6, 2013.

Bournemouth Pier, which is set in the centre of seven miles of golden sand framed by the Isle of Wight and the Purbeck Hills, is just one of the route highlights in a series of races predicted to become a great addition to the UK running calendar.

The award winning Boscombe Pier will also feature in the new family friendly festival which as well as a Marathon, will also include a Half Marathon, 10k, 5k and two junior races.

“The perfect environment has produced the natural environment for running as it should be,” said Race Director Neil Kilgour.

“With miles of glorious, unspoilt golden sands and clear blue sea, Bournemouth and Poole provide a beautiful backdrop for the ultimate run in a pure and clean natural environment. We’re proud to launch a brand new Marathon Festival in such a stunning location. The spectacular, natural running environment and fresh air of Bournemouth and Poole will be loved by runners who want to run as it should be, making it an exciting addition to the UK running calendar”.

“There’s so much more to the Bournemouth Marathon Festival, too. People can use the weekend as a goal for fitness, fundraising, or as part of a fun weekend with the family. It’s not all about running; people can participate by helping out as race crew or simply by cheering the runners around the route. An event of this scale brings out community spirit and gives residents a sense of pride and coming together”.

The Bournemouth Marathon Festival will bring together all its events one unique Festival of Running. A 5k “Speed of Light race” where runners will each be provided with a luminous LED wristband to light up the pier and promenade as they run at dusk, will provide an unforgettable race and some magical moments for runners and spectators, while runners taking part in the “Supersonic” 10k run will be treated to music from bands along the route, showcasing local musical talent.

Two junior races designed to fire children’s enthusiasm for fitness will guarantee there’s something for all the family, but at the heart of this weekend will be the establishment of The Bournemouth Marathon - the pinnacle of endurance athletics.

Jon Weaver, Marketing & Events Manager from Bournemouth Tourism said: “We can’t wait to host the 2013 Marathon Festival and welcome the thousands of runners expected over the weekend. Our established record of great award-winning family festivals and the stunning location is sure to excite everyone - runners, supporters, families, friends and the local community.”

Entries are now open for the Bournemouth Marathon Festival on October 5 and 6, 2013 through the event website at www.run-bmf.com

You can also 'like' the Bournemouth Marathon Festival Facebook page.