Organisers have hailed the first ever Rochdale Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run a resounding success after 1,200 runners ran through the town on Sunday.
The event saw runners get on their marks by Rochdale Town Hall and set out on traffic-free courses taking in town and countryside.
All runs ended with a final stretch back to the finish at Rochdale Town Hall, where they were met by 100’s of spectators.
The half marathon was won by Dave Archer in a time of 1:13:09. The first female runner was Hayley Kuter in a time of 1:24:02.
The 10K was won by Joe Bailey in 32:02, while the first female runner was Kirsty Johnson in 41:27.
Spectators came out in there hundreds to line many parts of the routes and on the Esplanade there was a ‘Sports Village’ featuring sports, fitness and health stalls.
Main event sponsor Williams BMW Rochdale had an eye catching presence on the Esplanade. They displayed their latest collection of prestige motors including the i8, a beautiful plug-in hybrid sports car.
Councillor Janet Emsley, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing, who took part in the fun run said:
“Today we’ve managed to attract runners from across Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, Cheshire and beyond as well as many from our borough. The atmosphere was buzzing, with spectators providing much needed encouragement along the route. Residents showed tremendous support and I would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the disruption caused by the morning’s road closures. The event was made possible by the support of many local people, businesses and groups. Volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the event ran smoothly on the day, along the route and in the sports village. We are hoping this event grows each year and are already looking ahead to 2016.”
Council Leader Richard Farnell said:
“Rochdale has gone running crazy over the last few weeks with lots of training sessions and preparation taking place. On behalf of all the charities who will benefit financially from today, thank you. Events such as these make such a difference in raising much needed funds for valuable causes.”
The event was staged by Rochdale Borough Council in partnership with race organiser Cannonball Events and sponsored by Williams Rochdale BMW.
