PRESS RELEASE: 15 May 2015 NEW ROUTE ANNOUNCED FOR 2015 IKANO ROBIN HOOD MARATHON & HALF MARATHON Organisers of the Ikano Robin Hood Marathon and Half Marathon today announce exciting changes to the 2015 course. The picturesque new route now includes more of Nottingham’s landmarks than ever before, making Sunday 27 September a date not to be missed. Perfect for seasoned runners hunting down their next challenge or for newcomers to the running community looking for an attractive route for their debut race, the event is set to impress participants with the sights of the city while putting them through their paces. So what’s new for 2015? The Castle The race will start as always at Victoria Embankment with a festival of medieval folklore, but new for 2015, runners will pass the city’s magnificent 17th century medieval castle on Castle Road as they approach the second mile marker. The landmark is not only spectacular to look at but provides runners with an insight into Nottingham’s colourful history. Who knows, runners might even get a glimpse of Robin Hood himself… The Park After passing the Castle, runners will continue into The Park via Lenton Road, passing the two mile mark. With a deep history dating back to the 1800s, The Park is noted for its magnificent architecture and provides runners with an insight into the City’s Victorian era. Nottingham University Jubilee Campus This year’s route also includes the stunning setting of Nottingham University’s Jubilee Campus. Accessed via Triumph Road, runners will reach the four mile mark while admiring the breath-taking views of sweeping paths, fountains, lakes and local wildlife. Wollaton Park The new route continues to impress at mile six, with runners passing through the 500 acre Wollaton Park. With company of the resident deer, this is a great spot for spectators and runners alike to soak up one of the most beautiful green spaces in Nottingham. City Centre – Market Square The spotlight will be well and truly on the Ikano Robin Hood Full-Marathon runners as they approach the city centre at mile nineteen. Passing through Old Market Square, immense spectator support is expected, sure to motivate runners towards their mighty finish at the Race Village, where they will be roared in by the crowd. Judith Manson, Senior Operations Manager of Race Organiser Sweatshop, comments: “We’re very excited about the changes to the 2015 Ikano Robin Hood Marathon & Half Marathon as it allows runners to take in even more of Nottingham’s wonderful scenery and iconic attractions. Having taken on board runner feedback from previous years, the route still includes the much-loved Victoria Embankment start and the Race Village finish, so the atmosphere will be fantastic. Last year saw runners in their thousands and hordes of supporters light up the city which was a great feeling – we again look forward to seeing everyone on race day!” Vivienne Saunders, Communications Manager at Ikano, adds: “With its picturesque and stunning parkland, the new route is the perfect platform for so many runners, be it seasoned racers looking for a change of scenery or for newcomers joining the exhilarating running community. The sight of thousands of runners passing through Nottingham is truly spectacular and I can’t wait to experience the thrilling event again this year.” Entries are selling fast for the 2015 Ikano Robin Hood Marathon & Half Marathon - secure your spot now at www.robinhoodhalfmarathon.co.uk. Fuelling stations will be available at regular 3 mile intervals throughout the course. Entry prices: Half Marathon: £31.75 (UKA affiliated club runners) / £29.75 for all other runners. Marathon: £38 (UKA affiliated club runners) / £40 for all other runners. Special VIP entry: £50 Wheelchair athletes: £10 Mini marathon: £7.75 All races include a fantastic medal and a goody bag at the finish. ~ends~ Words: 620 PRESS ENQUIRIES Catherine Russ Promote PR 01628 507 662 Catherine.russ@promotepr.com Editor’s notes: In its 35th year, the Robin Hood Half Marathon takes place in Nottingham on 27 September 2015. Registration is open now. The Robin Hood Half Marathon is organised by Sweatshop, the UK’s largest specialist running retailer with shops nationwide. Sweatshop was founded by Olympic Champion Chris Brasher in 1971, with the aim to give every runner, from absolute beginner to international athlete, access to the very best equipment, supported by free gait analysis, sports bra fitting service and much more. Sweatshop’s first responsibility is to the runner and their mission is to help you Be The Best You Can Be. Sweatshop has been voted the ‘Best Retailer’ by readers of Runner’s World for seven years in succession including 2013. Sweatshop staff are committed to providing outstanding customer service and to support this Sweatshop provides an extensive professional development training programme for all their staff including biomechanics, customer service, breast health and sports bra fitting. For more information visit www.sweatshop.co.uk Ikano is an international company which was originally part of the home furnishing company IKEA, founded by Ingvar Kamprad. Ikano Group now runs operations in the areas of asset management, finance, insurance and real estate. In the UK Ikano delivers credit, loyalty and marketing strategy programmes to several large retail partners including; Bensons, DFS, Harveys, IKEA, Jaeger, Karen Millen, Monsoon, New Look, Oasis and Warehouse. Ikano has been in Nottingham since 1994 and currently employs 250 people. Ikano is committed to the city of Nottingham. Its charitable strategy aims to help Nottingham’s vulnerable children and young people. As well as having raised over £18,000 for local children’s Hospice Rainbows. In 2012 Ikano began a partnership with Nottingham Academy to support students though a volunteer programme. www.ikano.net