Hundreds ready for Hoylake 10k (From Wirral Globe)
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Hundreds ready for Hoylake 10k
8:00am Saturday 8th September 2012 in News By Craig Manning
Participants in last year's event
MORE than 600 people have signed up for tomorrow's Hoylake 10k coastal fun run.
Now in its 19th year, the event raises funds for the Wednesday Special Needs Club's Soft Play Sensory Resource, which is based in Hoylake Community Centre.
The entry deadline passed last week and 650 people have registered, but you can still sign up to take part on the day.
Race secretary Carla Williams said: "I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has signed up and for getting their entries in early.
"I'm not sure why there's been such an interest this time. It may be a knock-on effect of the Olympic games, inspiring people to get out and take up a sporting activity. There's every possibility that have a record turn-out.
"It's going to be a brilliant, fun day, and the weather's supposed to be good, so hopefully we'll get a few more along on the day."
Among those taking part is club member Matt Heard, 24, who is blind, has epilepsy and cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair regularly.
Niall Murphy, who volunteers at the club, will run the first 9.5k and before passing the baton to Mat who will complete the remaining half kilometre.
Last year 669 people took part, raising more than £9,000.
The event starts outside Hoylake Community Centre in Hoyle Road at 11am.
Participants will follow a course along the promenade, dropping off the Meols embankment for a short distance, through the car park by Leasowe Lighthouse and back onto the embankment towards Leasowe Castle Hotel.
At the 5k marker, runners return back along the same route.
Putting them under starters orders last year was Wirral West MP Esther McVey.
First man to cross the line was James Mulvaney, 33, who finished in 34 minutes, 46 seconds.
First woman to finish was Lisa Grantham, from Wirral Athletics Club, in 37 minutes, 58 seconds.
More details about the Wednesday Club or Soft Play Sensory Resource are from www.wsnc.co.uk
