The MBNA Chester Marathon has sealed its position as one of the UK’s favourite marathons after being labelled number one for the second year running.
The annual race secured the Gold Award in the Best Mass Participation Race category in the Sweatshop Awards for the Running Industry 2013, which was reiterated by Runner’s World magazine, where the event was labelled the UK’s Number One road marathon of 2013.
Both awards were dictated by the UK running community, following 97% positive feedback from the public on the Runner’s World forum, and the Sweatshop Awards for the Running Community gong stemming from 7,000 public votes.
Joint race organiser, Chris Hulse, said: “To be recognised by runners as one of the best marathons in the UK is the biggest accolade we could receive.
“As passionate runners, we pride ourselves on combining our own ideas with highlights from other races to create the best possible running experience for each and every one of our entrants.
“When we developed the MBNA Chester Marathon five years ago, it was vital to us that it would grow into a big race which would be well loved and popular amongst the UK and international running community, whilst ensuring we kept all the personal touches that a small race offers.
“This is still very much a key part of our ethos and we are thrilled that the running community has recognised our efforts to put on a top quality event for them.”
The fifth MBNA Chester Marathon is confirmed for Sunday, October 5.
Often referred to as ‘the destination marathon’, it offers a fast, predominantly flat course through Chester and the Cheshire countryside.
It crosses into North Wales, making it the UK’s only international marathon.
The MBNA Chester Marathon was up against top events for the Runner’s World accolade, including the Virgin London Marathon, which came seventh in the category.
Andy White, joint race organiser added: “The race has been listed in the UK’s Top Ten Marathons in the Runner’s World awards every year in its five year history.
“We are now looking to build on the success of the last four races, constantly taking feedback into account and trying to offer our runners an even better race experience, from the moment they sign up through to crossing the finish line, in order to retain our title as one of the UK’s top marathons.”
Entries are now open for the MBNA Chester Marathon. Prices are £42 for UKA affiliated runners and £44 for non affiliated runners.
Active Leisure Events also organise the Chester Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, May 18 and never fails to sell out.
The Chester Half Marathon is priced at £28 for UKA affiliated runners and £30 for non affiliated runners.
To enter the marathon, or for further information, visit www.chestermarathon.co.uk .
To enter the half marathon, go to www.chesterhalfmarathon.co.uk .
