2022 Omagh Half Marathon sells out in just six days

THERE are currently no plans to release extra places for the 2022 Omagh Half Marathon after the event sold out within six days.

Organisers of the race are preparing for its resumption after two years due to the coronavirus pandemic.

At the moment a total of just over 1,600 participants are registered to complete the 13.1mile course on Sunday, April 3. But a final decision on whether more can be accommodated is set to be taken close to the scheduled date.

Race director, Michael Ward, told the UH that organisers were ‘thrilled’ by the high level of interest which resulted in all the available places being taken up in under a week.

“It’s the first time ever that this has happened, although obviously the numbers have been capped due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.

“The fact that the race sold out so quickly really is unbelievable and emphasises the demand that is there. Runners are very anxious to get back to participating in events.

“Our peak for the half marathon was around 4,000, so we’ll have two thirds of that number in 2022. We will review the numbers in the new year and the safety of the participants will be key.

“The decision will be depending on how things develop during the coming weeks and months.”

For the first time, the event is taking place on a Sunday. There will also be a new route, aimed at facilitating church services which will be taking place during the time of the race.

Prizegiving ceremonies and refreshments are are also expected to take place outside in line with coronavirus guidelines.

“It’s our intention to release details of the new course in the new year,” Mr Ward added. “Feedback from those club runners who have completed it so far has been positive.”