The oldest race on the Manx athletics calendar, the Peel to Douglas Trail Race, has a new sponsor.

The race has been run since 1909, with the winner of the first two races being Stanley Karran. After his death in the 1950s, his family donated a trophy in his memory, the Karran Cup, which is still competed for every year.

The race used to take place in early May on the road but moved to its present slot in September and on the Heritage Railway line in 2011.

Manx Harriers have now announced that Brendan Downey Construction Ltd will sponsor the race.

Club chairperson Bridget Kaneen said: 'Having BDCL as sponsors of this historic race is most welcome and much appreciated.

'Their sponsorship will support the staging of the event, prizes and overall support for the running of athletic events on the Isle of Man.'

The club is planning an increase in the event prizes as well as some fun innovations to encourage more runners to take part.

Ryan Downey of BDCL said: 'We are delighted to support the Peel to Douglas Trail Race. As one of the Isle of Man’s longest-standing running events, it holds a special place in the local sporting calendar.'

This year the event takes place on Sunday, September 20 starting at the fish yards in Peel at 9am and finishing on the Heritage Railway line opposite Quarter Bridge and the NSC.

The presentation will take place in Manx Harriers clubhouse immediately after the event closes.

More details about how to enter will follow in the weeks ahead.

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