Press release

Welsh Secretary: World Half Marathon putting Wales on the global sporting map

Alun Cairns to take to the streets of Cardiff for 13.1 mile race

World Half Marathon

World Half Marathon

Wales is yet again showing its class in hosting unforgettable sporting events, Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said as he prepares to don his running shoes for the IAAF Cardiff University World Half Marathon Championships (Saturday 26 March).

Some of the world’s best runners, including double Olympic and world champion, Mo Farah, will descend on the Welsh capital for what is set to be one of the most prestigious UK endurance events in recent years.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns will also take his place on the start line at Cardiff Castle alongside Welsh half marathon champion, Dewi Griffiths who has been included in the British Athletics contingent.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:

I’m delighted to see Cardiff once again playing host to a major sporting event and attracting some of the highest profile names from the global athletics community.

From the Rugby World Cup to the Ashes, Cardiff and Wales as a whole continue to show the world we have the right experience, know-how and spirit to play host to first class sporting occasions.

I am looking forward to joining the thousands of runners taking part in the half marathon - to celebrate this city, to raise money for a good cause – and to perhaps picking up a PB time along the way!

Notes to editors

  • Alun Cairns has completed four London Marathons in aid of local charities and was the fastest MP to complete the 26 mile course in 2015. He will also compete in this year’s event.

  • His personal best time for a half marathon is 1hr39mins and 3hrs 34mins for a full marathon.

  • He will be raising money for Breast Cancer Now and The Brain Tumour Charity while running the London Marathon. See Alun Cairns’ donation page

Published 24 March 2016