Oxford Half Marathon calling all local bands for race day entertainment

The organisers of the Oxford Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday 14 October 2012, are calling all local bands get in touch if they want to play during the event and contribute to the inspiring race day atmosphere. 

The race organisers are giving local bands/groups, musicians, choirs, string quartets and singers a chance to get involved, using this great sporting event as a stage to showcase their skills and talent.

The race organisers - who have also announced that a prize of £500 will be up for grabs for the band that is voted as ‘most motivational’ by the runners in an after race survey - want to give everyone an extraordinary race experience and make the Oxford Half Marathon a race to remember; for many runners, in fact, it can be easier to stay motivated when being cheered on by spectators and spurred on by entertainment en route.

"We know how important a good atmosphere is on race day, and not just in the race village but around the 13.1 miles of the course,” said Race Director Andy Heyes. “We are inviting local bands to get involved in the Oxford Half Marathon by putting their musical mark on it and making a difference to the race day by creating a great atmosphere. Samba bands are always a favourite with runners and spectators alike as they tend to create a real carnival atmosphere but there is no particular style or requirement, we are open to suggestions! We are pleased to also donate a cash prize of £500 as a thank you to the band that gets voted as the most motivational."

There are no specific requirements in order to be able to apply, apart from the fact that you need your own equipment/instruments and you must be able to play or sing tunes that you deem as entertaining and motivational. The band leader and spokes person must be aged at least 18 and get in touch with the Oxford Half Marathon on behalf of the band. Please send an email with the band’s details and ideally a short video or link to online footage to [email protected] , or call 0117 923 7333 for further information.

Also for 2012, a great new route has been introduced and running legend Sir Roger Bannister will be starting the race.

Entry is £29 for affiliated runners and £31 for non-affiliated runners, with all finishers receiving a medal, a goodie bag and a Brooks technical t-shirt.

Go to www.oxfordhalfmarathon.com for further details and to secure your place now.