The Microgaming-sponsored Isle of Man Marathon and Half-Marathon are back from the brink.

A fortnight ago the organisers, Isle of Man Veteran Athletes’ Club, were set to call the 2020 editions of the races off.

But things all changed in a matter of days when the Chief Minister announced that IoM Government was not only scrapping the two-metre social distancing rule (completely), but also doing away with the limitations for assembled gatherings.

It is still highly unlikely that athletes from off-island will be able to participate, because of the two-week quarantine rules, but with the marked growth in interest of running locally it is likely that the half-marathon (13.2 miles) in particular should have a healthy entry.

The options for those who have already entered our races and live off-island are: Refund (by cheque in sterling); donation of the fee to local charity Hospice Isle of Man; or do nothing. If the club does not hear from individuals their entries will defer to the 2021 event (date to be confirmed, but similar time of the year).

If you wish to accept one of the above offers, please email [email protected] by July 24, giving your name and your option preference.

The events will both be based at Ballacloan football stadium in Ramsey, with the marathon starting on North Shore Promenade at 9am and the half-marathon 30 minutes later from a point close to Mooragh Park.

The 13.2-mile course takes the scenic coastal route north to Bride, where it turns inland to Andreas and continues to St Jude’s crossroads.

From there the final three-and-a-bit miles back to Ramsey are pan flat.

It’s two laps for the marathon runners, meaning two ascents of the short but sharp Bride Hill climb.

Entry forms are available on the club website http://www.iomvac.co.uk

l Other events organised by the same club this year include: Veterans Mile - Wednesday, July 22; End-to-End Walk - Sunday, September 20; Autumn Handicaps - Thursday, October 15, NSC; Syd Quirk Half-Marathon - Sunday, November 22.