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Runners at the Rochdale Half Marathon and 10K

Rochdale Half organisers on a mission to deliver a safe event this autumn

Safety first as Rochdale Half Marathon organisers aim for event to take place in October.

The organisers of the Williams BMW Rochdale Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run are doing their utmost to ensure their event takes place in October as scheduled. Runner safety continues to be their main priority. 

The coronavirus outbreak caused a great deal of uncertainty around this event as for others and the question on every runner’s lips is “Will it go ahead?” The organisers want to reassure everyone who has entered that they firstly, understand these concerns and secondly, are going all out to ensure it happens on Sunday 4 October. This will be in accordance with social distance guidelines and as per advice from UK Athletics. 

Whilst it means adapting to the current situation and an awareness that things can change between now and 4 October, the organisers will deal with any issues as they arise. They are providing updates via social media and keeping an eye on the crisis, followed by a final decision at the end of this month. 

One change to the event is no race T-shirts this year, however, the entry fee has been reduced by at least £5 to reflect this. Runners are asked to carry on with their training as in ‘normal’ times but if the event is cancelled their place will automatically transfer to 2021.   

The Rochdale team os one of a number of race organisers across the North of England making strenuous efforts to stage their events in a safe way. A number of imaginative approaches are being considered for autumn events from semi-virtual (solo/small group runs on the actual course) to multi wave set-ups with various social distancing measures.

Will this mean runners being asked to wear masks (at least at the start/finish)? Different waves/start times where runners stay 1 metre apart?  Hand sanitisers before and after races?

All being well Rochdale will return for the 6th year with the choice of a half marathon, 10K or 1 Mile Fun Run. There is a corporate package for businesses wanting to enter a workplace team and free entry to elite athletes. This event raises thousands of pounds for charities with Springhill Hospice the official charity for 2020 and is sponsored by premier motor dealer Williams BMW Rochdale. 

For more information, Twitter updates and how to enter, visit the event website.

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