Excitement builds as just four weeks remain until the Altra Yorkshire Marathon Festival

With just four weeks to go until the Altra Yorkshire Marathon Festival, anticipation is growing as thousands of participants prepare to take to the start line in York on Sunday 18^th October.

Delivered by Jane Tomlinson's Run For All in partnership with title sponsor Altra, the event has become one of the highlights of York’s sporting calendar, bringing together first-time marathoners, experienced runners, wheelchair participants and charity fundraisers for a day of achievement, determination and celebration.

Renowned for its flat, fast and scenic route, the Altra Yorkshire Marathon attracts participants of all abilities, from those aiming for a personal best to others taking on the 26.2-mile challenge for the very first time. With race day fast approaching, runners are entering the final stages of their training and counting down the days until they reach the start line.

Starting and finishing at the University of York, the route showcases some of the city's most iconic sights, including York Minster, before heading out through picturesque surrounding countryside and back into the heart of the city.

From start to finish, participants can expect an incredible atmosphere, with thousands of spectators lining the route alongside volunteers, schools, local groups and performers who come together to support and celebrate every runner.

As with all Run For All events, fundraising remains at the heart of the marathon. Participants are encouraged to run for a charity close to their heart or support one of the event's partner charities, which include York Foodbank, Yorkshire Cancer Research, the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Dementia Forward, The Island, St Leonard's Hospice, Macmillan Cancer Support, York Mind and Children with Cancer UK.

As the countdown continues, York is preparing to welcome thousands of runners and supporters for what promises to be another unforgettable Yorkshire Marathon Festival.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said:

"We're incredibly excited to be bringing the Altra Yorkshire Marathon Festival back to York next month. With just four weeks to go, the countdown is well and truly on for the thousands of runners who have been training hard for race day.

"Whether participants are aiming for a personal best, completing their first marathon or fundraising for a cause close to their heart, they should be incredibly proud of the commitment they've shown to reach this stage.

"The Altra Yorkshire Marathon is known for its fantastic atmosphere, supportive crowds and stunning route, and we're looking forward to welcoming runners, volunteers and spectators for what promises to be another memorable day in York.”