Half marathon nears
Published 18 Apr 2012 06:30
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RUNNERS are entering the final stages of preparation for the Bracknell Half Marathon - which will see some roads temporarily closed to traffic.
Entries are full for the race, and 1,000 runners are due to set off on a 13.1-mile race on Sunday, April 29.
Organiser Chris Vaal said: "Our event is very much for the local people and runners. The vast majority of runners who enter live in Bracknell or have a link to it.
"It has a nice atmosphere. From the feedback we get from the runners, there are plenty of people out offering them Jelly Babies and cheering them round the course."
The event depends on about 150 volunteers from school PTAs, the scouts and other community groups to act as marshalls, run water stations and generally help with the smooth-running of the race.
The groups then receive a donation from Bracknell Forest Council.
Last year, about 1,000 runners completed the course, with winner Chris Bolt from Bracknell AC finishing in 1h 14min 26secs and Liz Hartney of Reading Road Runners the first woman home at 1h 23min 53secs. The circular race, which was first held in 1984, will start at 9am from outside South Hill Park arts centre in Ringmead, Birch Hill.
The route - which is the same as last year - takes runners through Wildridings, up towards Binfield and through Warfield, before looping back south through Harmans Water, Crown Wood and Forest Park.
Drivers are advised to take care in the area during the race, although most of it will be on footpaths rather than roads.
Mr Vaal said: "We understand that there's a certain amount of disruption, but we do everything we can to minimise the impact on local residents. Wherever it is safe, we will allow cars through."
Expected timings of road closures:
* Ringmead near South Hill Park from 8.45-9.15am
* South Hill Road from 8.45-9.30am
* Western Road from 8.45am until the last runner has passed, usually by 10am
* Binfield Road between Harvest Ride and Temple Way is the 'half-way point' and is expected to be closed while runners pass between 8.45-11am
There is more about the race at www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/bracknellhalfmarathon
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