GLOBAL SPORTS STARS IN BELFAST
The Antrim Coast Half Marathon press conference at Ulster University Belfast Sport Centre officially unveiled the strongest elite field ever assembled for a road race in Ireland.
Race Directors James and Ruth McIlroy confirmed that the 2025 event will feature Olympic and World Champions, as well as some of the fastest half marathon runners in history.
Speaking at the announcement, Race Director James McIlroy said: “To have Olympians, world champions and world record holders choosing to race on the Antrim Coast is an extraordinary endorsement of both the event and Northern Ireland. We are proud that the Antrim Coast Half Marathon continues to attract the very best athletes in the world to one of the most scenic and fastest courses on the planet.”
Ruth McIlroy, Race Director, added: “This year’s line-up is without doubt the most competitive in the event’s history. To bring together seven-time world champion, Geoffrey Kamworor and fourth fastest all-time female, Lilian Kasait – alongside a host of British and Irish talent – promises an unforgettable contest for spectators and global audiences.”
Joshua Cheptegei will be missing from the line-up on Sunday,24th August, explained James McIlroy. “Joshua is deeply saddened to be missing the race but he is unable to participate due to an illness picked up over the weekend. However, the race will be jam-packed with runners eager to achieve good times and it will be a thrill to see them do their best against the backdrop of the stunning Antrim coast.”
Founded in 2020 by James and Ruth McIlroy, the Antrim Coast Half Marathon has grown from just 62 participants to almost 6,000, gaining World Athletics Elite Label status and global recognition as one of the fastest and most scenic half marathons. Athletes from more than 40 countries willcompete in the 2025 race.
The event is now firmly established as one of the world’s premier half marathons, ranked 7th globally in 2024, and attracting some of the best runners in the world, including multiple World and Olympic champions.
To find out more about the Antrim Coast Half Marathon visit www.antrimcoasthalfmarathon.com.
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