LOROS, the organisers of the Leicester Marathon 2012, is calling on the people of Leicestershire to swell the crowds along the route of this year’s event to make it the biggest ever. The race, which takes place this Sunday (October 14th), is one of the county’s biggest sporting events with over 3,000 runners taking place in 5 different races on the day, including the marathon itself.
The races are being started by London marathon heroine Claire Lomas in Victoria Park from 9.15am. The runners will move down through London Road to Melton Road from 9.30am onwards, heading out along the South Fosse Way. The route goes past several of the city’s unique attractions where the public can soak up the atmosphere of the race including the clock tower, Abbey Park, Watermead Park, the Golden Mile, the Space Centre, Highcross and the final mile of the race along New Walk towards Victoria Park.
The start and finish of the race boasts a ‘Health & Wellbeing market place’ with activities and entertainment for all ages. Last year Leicester was named as one of the top 10 UK running cities, in part because of the support that the Leicester Marathon receives, helping the runners to keep pushing on towards the finish line.
“This year’s London Olympics demonstrated just what an important part crowds play in making a sporting event special,” comments race organiser Christian Weikert-Picker. “The great thing about the marathon is that the event is free for all spectators and the support of the crowd makes a huge difference to those running. “
Sports commentator for BBC Leicester and first time Leicester Marathon runner, Ian Stringer said; “I only started running marathons this year and have been desperate to make sure I ran one in my own town. The atmosphere at a marathon is incredible and to see people on the streets of the city closest to my own heart is going to be incredible. A marathon is a journey of personal achievement balanced with a desire to raise money for charity for some outstanding local, national and international charities but it’s made by the support from the side-lines. Please come onto the streets and support the runners, it is your support which keeps us going.”
Jersey Budd, local singer songwriter is also keen to see the people of Leicester out supporting the race; "I've never done a marathon in my life but the opportunity to take part in the Leicester Marathon was just too good to turn down. It will be an absolute honour to run and be part of something that raises so much money for charity; I can't wait to witness first- hand the special atmosphere they say is part of the Leicester Marathon. So people of Leicester come down and support all the runners and I'll even promise to smile at the end!”
Weather conditions for the weekend are currently looking promising. Supporters can choose their vantage point by visiting www.leicestermarathon.org.uk for full details of the route and timings. Some roads will be closed on the day, so organisers are urging people to use public transport where possible. Bike racks will also be available on Victoria Park for those wishing to cycle to the event.
