Oldham's Halloween half marathon which is considered one of the toughest 13.1-mile races in the country is returning this weekend and spaces are still available for daring runners.
On Sunday, October 27, runners will be limbering up and preparing to take on a challenging and hilly half marathon course which weaves through Oldham and Saddleworth.
Although notoriously tough, runners of any ability can take part as long as they are over the age of 17.
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The half marathon has been running in Oldham since 2012 and pulls in hundreds of runners from local charities, businesses, running clubs and residents, with hundreds more lining the streets of Oldham to cheer on each competitor.
Runners will begin this year's half marathon in the centre of Oldham before taking a steady incline up to Grains Bar where at a whopping 340 metres above sea level, the course reaches its infamous peak.
From here, runners will enjoy breathtaking views of the Saddleworth countryside as they make their way through Delph, Dobcross and Uppermill, before heading on to Grasscroft and Lydgate to begin their return leg.
With one last push through Lees and Glodwick, runners return to Oldham town centre, where they will be greeted by the crowds as they cross the finish line.
Stuart Lockwood, Chief Executive of Oldham Community Leisure, said:
"We're thrilled to welcome the return of the popular half marathon back to Oldham for another year.
“The course remains as challenging as ever, even for the most seasoned runners, but it's an unforgettable experience for everyone who takes part—one of the reasons this event has been so popular over the years.
"I invite you all to join me this year—it’s set to be a fantastic event for the whole town."
Councillor Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, added: “Oldham’s half marathon really is one of a kind, as it not only lets us showcase our stunning landscape and the wider borough to visitors but also brings our local community together and supports our local businesses.
“I’m really looking forward to the main event, and I’d like to wish everyone the best of luck – I’ll see you at the finish line.”
Participants can sign up on the Oldham Community Leisure's website.
Entry fees start from £31 with local running groups and clubs able to enter for just £29.
Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk
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