Organisers of the Vitality Oxford Half Marathon are pleased to announce that the popular city event will be returning in 2016, with Sunday 9^th October set firmly as the date for runners to mark in their diaries! Entries are open now for the event, which will once again start and finish in the city centre, and take in the iconic, historical, and university sites of Oxford.

Jamie Warren, Head of Marketing from race organiser, GO2, said: “We saw a phenomenal level of interest in the 2015 Vitality Oxford Half Marathon. Entries sold fast leading to a sell-out race, particularly after announcing the key route changes to incorporate the City Centre and all the famous landmarks that are synonymous with Oxford. These tweaks made a huge difference to the race day atmosphere; the city section provided the perfect course profile for runners to find a good rhythm and really get into their stride, plus it also encouraged thousands of spectators to line the streets to cheer on friends and family like never before!

“We are predicting more runners than ever will choose the Vitality Oxford Half Marathon as their autumn challenge, and would encourage anyone interested to take advantage of our early bird offers to avoid disappointment!”

Councillor Mark Lygo, of Oxford City Council, said: “We are pleased that the Vitality Oxford Half Marathon is coming back for its sixth year. The Vitality Oxford Half Marathon is one of Oxford’s biggest sporting events, which draws out spectators from around the city and beyond. I shall be participating again on the 9th October. I look forward to working with the organisers to ensure that this year’s half marathon is the most successful ever.”

The 13.1-mile course has been designed to celebrate everything loved about this beautiful, iconic city, on closed, fast and flat roads. This makes it perfect for both beginners looking to take on a personal challenge, as well as the more seasoned runner seeking that all-important personal best!

Nick Read, Commercial Director at Vitality, the title sponsor of the Vitality Run Series said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of registrations for the Vitality Oxford Half Marathon, part of the Vitality Run Series. We look forward to seeing all of the runners in October.”

Macmillan Cancer Support will also return as its National Charity Partner, as the half is a key fundraising event in the charity running calendar. Riona Doidge, Regional Challenge Events Programme Manager said: “Macmillan Cancer Support are proud to be the Lead National

Charity for the Vitality Oxford Half Marathon, we look forward to being part of the team in October.

“We would like to encourage as many people as possible to consider a charity place for the event, and ensure that no one has to face cancer alone. We will be there on the day to give our runners the biggest cheers, the best support and greatest reason to run!”

Patrik Ewe, UK Manager for series charity partner Laureus said: “The Laureus Sport for Good Foundation is delighted to be a part of this fantastic event. Our runners had a great time last year, many setting PBs thanks to the course and our run and advice session with Victoria Pendleton! We’re all excited to be back there cheering, clapping and encouraging runners. Join Team Sport for Good at www.laureus.com/run for £20 and receive free Mizuno kit, training plans, coaching days and more. Make it an even more memorable experience.”