Record numbers make a dash for Inverness Half Marathon

February 28, 2020

Entries to the 2020 Inverness Half Marathon have reached almost 3,000, making it the biggest turnout in the history of the event.

Taking place on Sunday 8^th March 2020, a record 2,940 people have signed up for the Half Marathon, while 1,045 have signed up for the 5K. The 5K event will also have race day entries available on a first come, first served basis during registration.

Over 95% of entries came from Scotland, including nearly 47% from the Highlands and Islands, 24% from Aberdeen and Grampian, and 15% from the Glasgow and Edinburgh areas.

The rest of the UK is also represented, as well as international entries ranging from Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and Lithuania to as far afield as Canada, USA and New Zealand.

21% of those signed up for the Half Marathon will be running their first race of this distance, while 23% of 5K runners are running their first 5K. 14% of participating 5K runners are from Highland schools and youth or sports clubs.

Speaking ahead of the event, Malcolm Sutherland, Director of Inverness Half Marathon, said: “It’s great to see 2020 will be Inverness Half Marathon’s biggest year yet. We’ve received entries from all over Scotland, the UK and around the world, and from all ages of runners.

“Whether they are experienced runners looking to set a new PB or taking on the challenge for the first time, we look forward to bringing everyone together and giving them a warm Highland welcome on 8^th March.”

A number of runners will be raising funds for charity and good causes. The official charities for the 2020 event are SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health), Alzheimer Scotland, The Archie Foundation, Highland Hospice and Marie Curie.

Paul Bush OBE, director of events at VisitScotland, said: “It’s great to see the growing popularity of the Inverness Half Marathon, and we are delighted to be supporting it through our Beacon Events Programme this year.

“Scotland is the perfect stage for sporting events, and the Inverness Half Marathon is a fantastic event that showcases the stunning scenery of Inverness and the Highlands as well as helping to deliver strong benefits to the area by welcoming thousands of runners both locally and from around the world. We look forward to welcoming participants next Sunday.”

There will be some temporary traffic restrictions in place for the races on 8^th March. Full details can be found here.

Further information can be found at: www.invernesshalfmarathon.co.uk/