Airport checks in as principal sponsor of popular race as organisers announce new feature to help runners
The Bangor 10K is set to scale new heights this year with George Best Belfast City Airport on board as a new sponsor of the ever-popular event.
The airport has partnered with organisers North Down Athletic Club and Ards and North Down Borough Council to support the race for the next three years, with the 2017 event set to take place on Saturday, 30th September.
A record number of over 800 runners with a range of abilities, from elite club athletes to fun runners, are expected to enjoy one of the most scenic 10K routes in Northern Ireland. To register, go to http://athleticsni.org/Fixtures/Bangor-10k.
In a bid to help runners negotiate the most difficult section of the course – the hill at Shandon Drive which marks the 9km stage in the race, this year will feature a new incentive to encourage runners as they enter the home straight.
Looking forward to the race, Valerie McDonough, Chairperson from North Down Athletic Club said:
“It’s fantastic to be able to officially launch the 2017 Bangor 10K in association with Belfast City Airport.
“We are very grateful to the airport for its support, which will help us significantly enhance an event that already has a strong pedigree and rich history stretching over 30 years, with Zola Budd famously having tackled the course in the 1980s. We are also fortunate to have the support of Pure Running, the owner of which is an active member of our club.
“The Bangor 10K is one of the most highly-anticipated events in the local running calendar, with the scenic route along the coastal promenade in particular providing a spectacular backdrop for runners.
“We know how difficult the Shandon Drive section of the course is, which is why we are injecting a bit of fun with the cheerleaders who will help spur on the runners as they tackle the last 1km.”
Last year’s Bangor 10K saw Olympian Paul Pollock win the Men’s race in a time of 30:40, while this year’s Belfast City Marathon winner, Laura Graham, won the ladies race, crossing the finishing line in 37:01.
The prize fund is in excess of £3,000 including specialist running kit sponsored by Pure Running, with an early bird entry fee of £15.00 that includes personalised bib numbers, available until 31st July. The closing date for online entries is 24th September. Late/paper entries are available until the morning of the race.
Rory Goldring, Airport Fire Service Crew Commander at Belfast City Airport, said:
“Belfast City Airport is delighted to partner with North Down Athletic Club by sponsoring the Bangor 10K for the next three years, and we would encourage runners of all abilities to sign up and take part.
“It is an honour to be associated with an event that adds real colour to our local community and attracts such a strong field of runners who enjoy such a fantastic scenic route.
“At Belfast City Airport, we have a dedicated Community Commitment Plan and through this we are able to create meaningful relationships with our neighbours by supporting our local community with various projects, including education, sports and arts initiatives.”