Belfast City Airport joins organisers to launch the popular Bangor 10K and announce support for charity’s bid to restore local landmark
The Bangor 10K, in association with George Best Belfast City Airport, is set to hit the high notes once again as organisers introduce exciting new features following last year’s record-breaking event.
Taking place on Saturday, 29th September, the race has been awarded Northern Ireland Championship status by Athletics NI for the first time, after the 2017 race attracted 1,200 runners – 65% more than the previous year – including international athletes with a strong pedigree.
Organised by North Down Athletic Club and Ards and North Down Borough Council, the Bangor 10K will this year be supporting the Open House Festival’s campaign to regenerate Bangor Court House into a community facility and festival base.
To mark the partnership with the festival, local arts group the Bangor Ukulele Collective will perform at the event in front of the Court House on Quay Street, which is part of the well-established race route.
Runners with a range of abilities, from elite club athletes to fun runners, are once again expected to enjoy one of the most scenic 10K races in Northern Ireland. To register, go to www.northdownac.co.uk
Tony Wall, Chairperson of North Down Athletic Club, said:
“Last year’s event was bigger and more successful than we could ever have imagined, and we are delighted to once again have the support of Belfast City Airport as we officially launch the 2018 Bangor 10K.
“Being awarded Championship status is testament to the major impact the race made, and we are confident it will help us raise the bar again in terms of the quality of the field we attract.
“The growth of the event means that we are able to partner with the Open House Festival in a campaign that is extremely important to the local community.
“Having the group perform at the Court House will further enhance the atmosphere on the day, and we hope that the support provided by the Bangor 10K will help the charity achieve its goal of fully restoring the building.”
Gideon Kipsang of Derry Track Club won the 2017 Bangor 10K men’s race in a time of 30.03, with Paddy Hamilton finishing second ahead of Chris Madden in third.
Laura Graham of Mourne Runners took the honours in the women’s event, crossing the finishing line in 34.37 minutes, with Jessica Craig in second and Cathy McCourt coming third.
The 2018 prize fund is in excess of £3,400 and will also include generous prizes sponsored by Pure Running, with an early bird entry fee of £15/affiliated and £17/unaffiliated until July 31st. Personalised bib numbers will be available for all online entries. The closing date for online entries is September 23rd, with late/paper entries available until the morning of the race.
Michelle Hatfield, Director of Corporate Services at Belfast City Airport, said:
“Belfast City Airport is fully committed to making a positive impact on our local community and our partnership with North Down Athletic Club for the Bangor 10K is a great example of the support we seek to provide.
“Last year’s event made a huge impression on everyone involved and this year’s run is once again set to be full of colour and fun. Places are likely to be taken quickly, so we would encourage runners of all abilities to sign up and take part.”
Open House Festival has been granted an 18-month lease on Bangor Court House and the group is hoping to gain full ownership. It has secured funding from a number of sources and is seeking further funding as part of the second phase of redevelopment.
For more information or to register for the Bangor 10k, please visit www.northdownac.co.uk