THOUSANDS are expected to line the streets and cheer on runners taking part in tomorrow’s Swindon Half Marathon – with organisers hoping it will become a success for years to come.

The race has been given a much-needed revamp over the last 10 months thanks to the hard work and dedication of a team of avid runners who wanted to offer people a flatter and faster course and one that would cater for all ages and abilities.

Now with final preparations underway for the big day tomorrow, organisers LG Running Ltd and 113 Events are out in force making sure that the popular race, which has seen almost 2,700 sign up, goes without a hitch.

“We’ve managed to put this race together within 10 months and usually it takes a good 24 months to organise so as I have said to all the competitors, the information and packs will be sent out a lot sooner next year but it is all a learning curve,” Graeme Hardie, one of the race directors, said.

“I believe we have done a good job with the time we have had. For me, once the last person has crossed the finishing then then it will be the best feeling, knowing everyone has had a good time. The harder it is in the run up to the race, the better that feeling will be once it finishes.

“I couldn’t have anyone getting over that finishing line and not having a medal so that is why we have made sure everyone will get one.”

Places for the race were snapped up quickly by eager runners when entries first opened earlier this year and since then, it has been at the centre of attention by people grateful for its less challenging terrain.

Those who were able to secure a place in time still have the chance to take part as 75 places will be available on a first come, first served basis tomorrow morning at the County Ground before the race gets underway at 11am.

To add a little fun into this year’s race, those who don a fancy dress costume could win a free spot at next year’s half marathon as eagle-eyed judges will be on the lookout for people in the wildest outfits.

Graeme added: “I love it when people dress up and I know people who turn up in costumes have such a laugh whether they are dressed as a team of Smurfs or superheroes.

“For us, having a good running event in Swindon will hopefully attract other people to come here for it.

“Other events like Park Run do such a good job for introducing people to running but it doesn’t offer that next step to progress.

“You only have to drive down Thamesdown Drive on a Sunday morning or go around Old Town and there is runner after runner. Swindon has a much bigger running community than comparable towns and it is something everyone can do.

“Swindon’s half marathon is brand new and we want this race to not just be amazing for the runners but we want the town to embrace it and our commitment to the town is to have as minimal impact as possible.”

A four-hour limit has been set for the race, giving people the chance to run, jog or walk the 13.1 miles.

Family and friends who want to track the progress of their loved one during the race can visit http://dbmaxresults.co.uk/Results.aspx?CId=16421&RId=6172.