Early bird closing date fast approaching for Inverness Half

Runners planning to take part in the 2013 Global Energy Inverness Half Marathon haven't much time left to take advantage of a substantial early bird discount on entry fees.

The popular event, now in its 29th year, takes place on Sunday 17 March, but anyone entering before midnight on Wednesday 31 October can benefit from the special rates.

Hundreds of runners have already taken up the offer but Race Director Malcolm Sutherland expects many more will sign up before the deadline passes.

"We are keen to support runners who make an early commitment to taking part in the half marathon,” he said.

"Although there's more than four months until the events take place, many runners will already be planning their winter training programmes.

"If they enter now, they'll have plenty of time to prepare and will be safe in the knowledge that they have a guaranteed place in whichever race they choose to take part in."

Over 2,500 runners are expected to participate in the half marathon which is likely to attract a number of Scotland's top runners who are aiming for Commonwealth Games marathon qualifying times next Spring.

Sutherland said: "Many leading runners will be looking for qualifying times in the big April marathons such as London and Rotterdam.

"The Inverness race is a month before these, which is an ideal time for athletes to test themselves over the half marathon distance prior to doing a full marathon.

"Last year we had a top class domestic field, combined with some outstanding overseas runners, which produced fast times at the front of the race. Hopefully we'll see a similar outcome in 2013.

“But it’s not just those elite runners who can benefit from competing at Inverness. Hundreds of other runners can also use our race as part of their Spring marathon preparations."

While the half marathon is the premier event on the programme the 5K Team Attack is also expected to prove popular again this year.

It is open to clubs, businesses, or groups of friends who can enter teams of four. Prizes will be based on the cumulative time of the four runners.

Individuals can take part in the 5K fun run which is also expected to attract a big entry.

The Archie Foundation, which makes a difference to the lives of sick children throughout the Highlands and the North East of Scotland, is the official race charity.

Entries for the half marathon, 5Km and Team Attack can all be made by visiting www.invernesshalfmarathon.co.uk