Thousands up and running as the marathon returns after restrictions

Q Radio News

Northern Ireland's largest mass participation sporting event since the pandemic began takes place on Sunday.

A series of Covid safety measures have been introduced for the 39th Belfast City Marathon.

More than 14,000 people have entered the various events including a fun run, with 5,500 in the marathon itself.

It started at Stormont, goes around the city and finishes in Ormeau Park.

The event hasn't taken place since 2019 and this is the first time it's been held in October, delayed from May due to coronavirus restrictions.

Roads along the route started to close at 6am and are due to reopen once all runners have passed.

The scene this morning as the 39th Belfast marathon got underway in the Stormont estate. pic.twitter.com/3tDj7V09Z4

— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) October 3, 2021

(The scene this morning as the 39th Belfast marathon gets underway in the Stormont estate - pic by Alan Lewis)

(...and they're off! Thousands of runners take part in the 39th Belfast marathon - pic by Alan Lewis)

(The countdown begins for the start of the Belfast marathon - pic by Alan Lewis)