Former Bradford Marathon winner and committed local athletics guru Tony Kingham will be the honorary starter for the 2013 Bradford City Runs on Sunday, October 27.
The 68 year-old is looking forward to starting the race and then jumping off the starter’s rostrum to perform as a veteran on the four-lap Bradford City Runs half marathon.
The course will be held on closed roads in the city centre, taking in the multi award-winning City Park. Runners have the opportunity to participate in either a 5K, 10K or half marathon distance.
Tony was the winner of the second annual Bradford T&A Marathon in 1983, posting a time of 2:32:08 around a very tough course starting at Apperley Bridge and taking in Shipley, Bradford city centre, Thornbury, Calverley, Horsforth, Rawdon, Baildon and Thackley.
Since then the former Bradford Grammar School teacher, has devoted much of his time to the development and support of local athletics.
The Bingley Harrier member has been pivotal, along with his colleague Selby Brock, in running the Bradford Schools Athletics Association. He also acts as voluntary treasurer for Bradford Athletics Network.
Tony said: “The City Runs event is a great opportunity for runners of all ages and standards to enjoy a range of events on closed roads right in the centre of Bradford.
“It is very rare nowadays to get central roads clear of traffic for four hours, so it is hoped many people will come out and take part.”
Coun Andrew Thornton, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Sport and Sustainability, said: “It will be great to have Tony Kingham starting the Bradford City Runs for us as he is a great role model for all runners.
“As a former Bradford Marathon winner he demonstrates great loyalty to local events and is looking forward to supporting the new Bradford City Runs.”
Marshalling is being done by local athletics clubs, university and college students, pupils from St Bede’s School, Bradford City and Bradford Bulls.
To find out more and get involved just go to www.bradfordcityruns.co.uk
Issue Date: 23/09/2013