Scottish distance track legend Liz McColgan is encouraging University of Stirling staff and students to don their trainers for the first ever Stirling Marathon.
The university is one of the stops on the newly-introduced marathon which takes place in May, starting at Blair Drummond Safari Park and finishing under the shadow of Stirling Castle.
McColgan has already recruited the Stirling University Athletics Club for the marathon as the former world champion met with students last week.
She said: “The Stirling Marathon is the perfect challenge for people of all levels, whether you’re a complete beginner or more experienced. The marathon course is going to be really interesting, with lots to see.”
McColgan then went on to praise the university, saying: “I have run around the University of Stirling many times and it’s one of the most scenic campuses you could hope to find.
The university’s own Sports Development Service is also encouraging people to get involved, with the launch of a new couch to 5km campus running group announced last week.
The group will meet every Wednesday from 12.30pm to 1.30pm, starting from October 19, with the sessions aiming to get people started on the road to marathon success. Keen marathon participants can also sign up for additional support including nutritional tips, training programmes and running routes.
Sports Participation Manager Nicola Redfern said: “This is a great opportunity for any staff or students thinking about getting involved in organised runs like the New Year Run, Race for Life and the first ever Stirling Marathon 2017 to come together to train, get fit and have fun.
“We hope the university will be well represented and ready for the challenge when the marathon comes through campus in the spring.”
McColgan is hoping a number of university students take on the challenge, as she looks to get the inaugural Stirling event off to a flying start.
“To any University students or staff thinking about taking part, I would say it’s a fun way to get fit and healthy and the race is going to a great event to be a part of, particularly as it’s in its first year.”
For more information on the new coach to 5km running group email k.r.sharp@stir.ac.uk. The sessions are free to sports centre members and £30 per block for non-members, with the Stirling Marathon taking place on May 21 2017.
