Entries for Sunday’s Microgaming-sponsored Isle of Man Marathon and Half-Marathon closed earlier this week with a total number of more than 400 athletes.

There are more than 110 names for the full 26.2-mile marathon, including a number of overseas (international) entries. It was hoped that 2015 winner Marci Soszka from Poland would be running his 99th marathon but he has not entered.

Paul Sykes would appear the likely favourite for the Isle of Man Marathon Championship title.

Christian Varley, who won the marathon outright last year, has decided not to defend his title as the recovery time between that and the Kona Ironman World Championships in October is too tight.

The start and finish for both of this Sunday’s events is from the Ballacloan Stadium area on North Shore Road.

The marathon and relay will commence at 9am and the half-marathon at 9.30am. Walkers are permitted in the latter event over 13.1 miles.

Spectators are welcome at the stadium all day.

Vehicle drivers are asked to take care when travelling round the course on the day. The pinch-points are Vollan/Grand Island junction, where the runners turn on to Bride Road.

After the steep, but relatively short Bride Hill climb the course turns left onto Burmah Road, then through the heart of Andreas village to St Jude’s, before returning to Ramsey on Jurby Road.

The Richmond Road/Bowring Road junction in Ramsey is another point where motorists will need to be aware of athletes.

The marathon runners will complete two laps, the half-marathon (larger field of 311 runners) only one.

Official cyclists will ride ahead of each race and marshals will be situated at various points round the course, but the organisers are reliant on drivers’ consideration in keeping everyone safe.

Isle of Man Veteran Athletes’ Club is indebted to Microgaming Play It Forward and Chris Cale of Up & Running (IoM) Ltd for all of the support.

For more information on the Isle of Man Veteran Athletes’ Club events email the marathon committee at [email protected] or visit isleofmanmarathon.com