Newry all set to host the biggest road race the city has ever seen

This year’s Newry City Half Marathon and 10k is going to be a sell-out, with 1,500 competitors and more than 2,000 spectators expected to line the streets of Newry from The Quays Shopping Centre, where the races start and end, through to the scenic Narrow Water Keep.

A key aim of the event is to raise much needed funds for local charities. This year we are supporting – Bolster Community, Newry and District Gateway Club, Down Right Brilliant, Newry Women’s Aid and Action Mental Health

Attracta Magennis, Joint Race Director said, “Newry Half Marathon and 10k has proven to be a fantastic day out for runners and supporters. We encourage as many people as possible to come out and cheer the runners on. There will be music at the canal side of The Quays Shopping Centre. The historic canal serves as a perfect setting for the race and there will be a real family friendly atmosphere.”

The half marathon starts on Sunday, May 26 at the canal side of the Quays at 10am, closely followed by the 10k at 10.30am. This year there will also be a 2K fun run for children up to age 11 and parents and guardians are welcome to join in.

Road closures along the canal side of The Quays will be in place from 9am. The race will follow the Warrenpoint dual carriageway (with lane closures) down to Narrow Water. There are great viewing opportunities at the top of Greenbank Industrial Estate and the turning point at Narrow Water Castle.

Newry Business Improvement District is sponsoring a £200 BID member voucher to any male or female runner who breaks the half marathon course or 10k race record. The male record currently stands at 66:00 and the female record stands at 77:05. In the 10k the new records are 31:07 for the males and 36:47 for the females.

Peter Linden, Joint Race Director continued, “Athletes just love our course as it is one of the flattest and fastest in Ireland and the number of athletes who achieved personal bests last year was phenomenal. The event is already attracting some well-known names and we hope that the people of Newry and the surrounding area will come out to support it. We will also have pacers in both races to help those seeking to achieve their goals.”

“We would also like to thank our sponsors who help make this event happen - Newry Business Improvement District and Newry Credit Union. We really could not deliver this event without them.”

Eamonn Connolly BID Manager said, “Newry BID is delighted to support Newry City Runners with this fantastic event. This is a superbly well organised event, run by a dedicated team. Newry Business would like to welcome runners and supporters from all over the country to enjoy the hospitality and shopping that Newry has to offer over the Bank Holiday weekend. If you are not already entered, we are asking you to help be part of the atmosphere on the day.”

“Many of our BID members are supporting super goody bags for the competitors while there are cash prizes for overall winners, course record and age category winners.”

Eamonn continued, “We would like to thank the many BID members who are getting involved, particularly The Quays for the use of their premises.”