Record Chasers and Rookies Lace Up for     Belfast Race

   
A Day of Running, Dreams, and Community in Belfast

     Belfast is buzzing with excitement this weekend. Streets are getting ready, shoes are being tied,
and hearts are racing – it’s time for the Belfast City Marathon!

     This year, the race is special. Not just because of the record-breaking runners aiming for the top,
but also because of the thousands of first-time runners who are showing up with courage and
hope.

   The Fast Runners – Chasing Records

    Some of the world’s best runners have come to Belfast this year. People like Josephat Kiprono
from Kenya, who has won races across the globe. He’s here to beat the current marathon record
in Belfast.

   He says,
  “I’ve trained hard for this. Belfast looks like a beautiful city and I’m ready to give my best.”

   On the women’s side, Meron Assefa from Ethiopia is also ready to shine. She just won a big
race in Stockholm and now wants to leave her mark in Belfast.

 
The First-Timers – Running with Heart

     Along with the professionals, more than 10,000 people are running for the first time.
From students and teachers to moms, dads, and even grandparents – everyone is excited (and a
little nervous too!).

    Aisling O’Hara, a 42-year-old teacher, said:
    “I’m not a professional runner. I just wanted to do something for myself. I’ve trained, and now
I’m ready to try.”

     For many of them, just finishing the race is the real victory.

   A Beautiful Route Through Belfast

     The marathon goes through some of the most famous and pretty parts of the city, like:

• Stormont Estate,

• Titanic Quarter,

• and lovely parks and local neighborhoods.

    And what’s amazing? The support! People will be cheering, kids will be giving high-fives, and
music will be playing along the way. It’s not just a run – it’s a party!

 
Running for a Cause

     Many runners are not just doing this for themselves – they’re running to help others. Some are
raising money for charities – for health, education, mental wellness, and more.

    Over £2 million is expected to be raised this year! That’s the power of running together.

    One local volunteer said it best:
   “Every mile they run helps someone in need. That’s what makes this race beautiful.”

    It’s More Than a Race

     The Belfast City Marathon isn’t just about running fast. It’s about people – pushing their limits,
helping each other, and celebrating life.

    Whether you finish first or last, whether you’re fast or slow – if you’re out there running, you’re
already a winner.

 
Final Words

     So as the sun rises over Belfast and thousands of feet hit the pavement, something magical will
happen.

     Strangers will become friends. Fear will turn into joy. And every runner – record chaser or rookie
– will cross the finish line with pride.

    Let the race begin. Belfast is ready. Are you?