October 7 2004: RUNNERS taking part in Swindon's first half marathon should receive their race packs within the next few days. More than 12,000 applications have been received at Nationwide HQ for the Evening Advertiser-backed event, which takes place on October 17.

And, although the deadline for this half marathon has now passed, people are still being encouraged to turn out in force for the two fun runs of 4.3 miles and two miles. These can be entered on the day.

Race director Peter Robinson is also calling on Swindonians to turn out on the day to cheer on the runners. "We are determined to make this a success," he said.

"Staff are sifting through the forms as quickly as possible to ensure all runners get their numbers on time.

"The packs will include a race number, final race instructions and a microchip to accurately record times."

Although planning the race has been hard work, Mr Robinson says there is every intention to make the event annual.

"This will be the biggest race since the 1983 Swindon marathon," he said. "We hope that it becomes part of Swindon's sporting calendar."

The race boss said the event would plug the missing gap in the M4 corridor.

"Reading, Bath and Bristol all have half-marathons and for years we have been the missing gap," he said. "But not any more.

"Almost all the preparations are in place to make this a professional event. We have marshals as well as medical staff.

"There will be lead cars to mark the route the special microchips will accurately record times."

Olympic athlete, Matt O'Dowd, from Rodbourne, will be running.

He achieved local-celebrity status over the summer after successfully completely the Athens marathon despite sweltering temperatures.

"To have someone as talented as Matt O'Dowd taking part in the town's first half-marathon is excellent," said Mr Robinson.

The 13.1 course will take runners around the scenic Marlborough Downs. The smaller runs both take in Coate Water Country Park and cost £5 and £3 respectively.

Money raised will go to Swindon Cares an umbrella charity that makes donations to Age Concern Swindon, Macmillan Cancer Relief and the GWR Community Trust.

Kevin Shoesmith