Entries for the Microgaming-sponsored Isle of Man Marathon and Half-Marathon on August 12 remain open until next Tuesday.

It is hoped that total numbers will be well in excess of 400 by then.

By this Tuesday there were more than 100 names for the full 26.2-mile marathon, including a number of overseas (international) entries. Of particular interest is Marci Soszka from Poland who won in 2015 and is back and running his 99th marathon.

Somewhat disappointingly, only five local runners have entered the Isle of Man Marathon Championship, of which Paul Sykes would appear the likely favourite.

The start and finish is from the Ballacloan Stadium area as usual, North Shore Road, with the marathon and relay events 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 Vollen/Grand Island junction, where the runners turn onto Bride Road, Andreas village junction, and the Richmond Road/Bowring Road junction in Ramsey where athletes turn right to head back towards the stadium.

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 the support.

NO REST FOR THE WICKED SERIES

The No Rest for the Wicked running series is again being held over the five evenings following the marathon and half-marathon the week after next. Any enquiries regarding the series should be directed to Barry Moore - email: [email protected] or phone 456108.