Runners taking part in this year’s MBNA Chester Marathon will have the chance to earn themselves a share of a £7,500 prize fund.
Organisers of the annual 26.2-mile race, which attracts runners from all over Chester and Flintshire, have announced a 50% increase in this year’s prize pot, ensuring it now rivals some of the UK’s biggest marathons.
The first man and woman to cross the finish line will claim £1,250 each, and will also earn an extra £750 if they break the existing course record.
These currently stand at two hours, 27 minutes and 24 seconds in the male category, held by Ben Fish, and two hours, 48 minutes and 11 seconds in the female category, held by Debbie Mason.
In addition to first prize, there will also be a cash prize for all top 10 male and female finishers, including £750 for the second place finishers, £500 for third place, £250 for fourth place and £150 for those claiming fifth place.
There will also be a £50 prize for those crossing the finish line in sixth to 10th place.
Andy White, joint organiser of the marathon, said: “There are some really strong marathon runners out there now, both male and female, and we feel that it’s important to offer them a prize worth fighting for.
“We are aware that a lot of other events don’t offer equal prizes for male and female finishers, so this is something we were really keen to address, in recognition of the strength of the UK’s elite female field.
“The marathon course is fast and it is definitely achievable for the course records to be broken this year .”
The MBNA Chester Marathon will this year take place on Sunday, October 6.
Enter at www.chestermarathon.co.uk . Entry costs £42 for UKA affiliated runners and £44 for non-affiliated runners.
