Dumfries Running Club, Marie Curie, Dumfries and Galloway College and South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth have come together to encourage as many people as possible to join in the fun and take part in the Dumfries Half Marathon.
This year’s entrants will also be helping a good cause, after the running club today announced that Marie Curie will be this year’s chosen charity to benefit from any funds raised from the race.
The event, which is in its 36th year, which takes place on Saturday 10th September and begins at Dumfries and Galloway College. South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has been asked by Marie Curie to carry out the official start of the race and award medals at the end.
The race, which will attract entries from across the UK, will take runners from the College at the Crichton towards Bankend before climbing past the Dovecotewell animal rescue centre with superb views over to Criffel. The runners will then return to the Crichton via Glencaple and the tricky climb back close to Bankend. The final four miles see the runners retrace their steps with a welcome final downhill mile back to the College.
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth said: “It’s a real privilege to be carrying out the race start on behalf of Marie Curie and awarding the medals. In my work as Vice-Convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Palliative Care Group I have seen at first hand Marie Curie do to support families at an incredibly difficult time and it’s great that Dumfries Running Club have recognised this work”.
“I would encourage as many people as possible to take part in the half marathon which caters for all levels and to as many members of the public to come along and cheer on those who will be running. People will know that by taking part they are supporting the fantastic work Marie Curie do to support people in our area”.
Mark Johnston from Dumfries Running Club said; “This will be the 36th race and every year we pick a different charity. We are very proud to support Marie Curie and a number of smaller groups who volunteer in the organising and operation of the run. We know the good work that Marie Curie do locally which is why we are delighted to back them in this way.”
Marie Curie Community Fundraiser Georgia Ramplin said, “Marie Curie are really looking forward to getting involved with the Dumfries Running Club this year. By choosing us as their benefitting charity for the Half Marathon, the funds raised will make a huge difference and will allow our nurses to continue to provide care for people living with a terminal illness.”
Beverly Armstrong from Dumfries and Galloway College said, “Dumfries and Galloway College looks forward to hosting the Dumfries Half Marathon again this year. The event is always an enjoyable one and the college wish all runners the best of luck “.
