A NUMBER of elite runners will battle it out in the men’s and women’s races at this year’s MBNA Chester Marathon.
The likes of Zimbabwe-born Canadian Shingirai Badza – who has won 10 city marathons – are expected to lead from the front on Sunday, October 9. But local runners will be out to ensure the star names do not have it all their own way.
Wrexham AC member Daniel Weston, who finished second in the inaugural MBNA Chester Marathon last year, said: “A lot of elite runners have entered so it’s going to be tough, but I’m really up for the challenge.
“The new route through the city and the finish at the racecourse takes the event to a whole new level. It promises to be a really exciting race and I can’t wait to have a crack at it.”
Another serious contender for the men’s title is Blackburn Harrier Ben Fish after his victories in the Freckleton Half Marathon and Finchley 20 earlier this year.
The names to look out for in the women’s race are Sarah Jarvis of Bingley Harriers & AC, Liz Hartney of Reading Roadrunners and Kerry Wood-Doyle of Stockport Harriers.
Race director Andy White: “We are over the moon that the new course has attracted a stellar field of runners.
“With the superb base at Chester Racecourse and a grandstand finish ensuring a big race atmosphere, this marathon promises to be a major sporting event for the North West.”
