It began as an idea to celebrate Ealing’s involvement in London’s 2012 Games.

But two months ahead of the Olympic torch’s arrival in the borough, the Ealing Half Marathon has already clocked up 2,012 entrants.

And organisers of the race – on September 30 – say the “overwhelming” public interest in the event means it should prove to be a lasting legacy of the Games.

Race director Kelvin Walker said: “When we opened for entries, we had no idea how popular it would be.

“But there has been a fantastic response, not just from the people of Ealing but from runners across London and beyond.

“Hitting 2,012 entrants with more than four months to race day is fantastic and we’re sure that – as the Games approach and people are inspired by what they see - even more people will sign up.”

The Olympic torch arrives in the borough of Ealing on July 24, when the relay will take it through Northolt, Southall, Hanwell and into central Ealing.

Its route will briefly coincide with that of the half marathon, along a short stretch of Uxbridge Road, before it reaches Walpole Park – a picturesque part of the half-marathon route - for a celebration to mark the flame’s overnight stay in the borough.

Kelvin and clubmates from Ealing Eagles Running Club initially came up with the idea of staging a half marathon to mark the torch’s arrival in the borough.

However, practicalities made a September date more convenient. And that timing means there is still plenty of time for people to train to complete the 13.1 miles.

Soon the Eagles will be announcing details of a four-month training scheme aimed at helping people to make it across the finish line.

And Kelvin is convinced that when all competitors have completed the inaugural race, the event will still have some distance left to run into the future.

“We’ve been really pleased with the reaction to our plans from the local authorities, voluntary groups and, most importantly, the people of Ealing,” he said.

“Over the summer, we’ll be organising events to give people in communities along the route more information about what will be happening on the day – and how they can get involved.

“And with their support, we hope it will become an annual highlight on the borough’s calendar.”

With no ballot, guaranteed places are available for the traffic-free event. Participants will each be given a chip-measured time, commemorative medal and bottled water.

The race is supporting Epilepsy Action, which campaigns for and offers assistance to the UK’s estimated 600,000 epilepsy sufferers, their family, friends and carers.

Vest partner Xempo will be leading groups aiming to hit target times ranging from 1hr 30mins to 2hrs 15mins, while the event is supported by local partners Move Clinics, Quit The Gym and Bodyline Studios.

 

22nd May 2012