A RUBERY man who started running nine months ago has welcomed the news a marathon will be held in Birmingham for the first time in more than 30 years.
Donato Esposito began training to coincide with his 55th birthday and to inspire others over 55 to do the same and stay fit.
Since then he has participated in a number of events and has just completed his first ever marathon in Brighton.
He told The Standard he could not wait to sign up for the 26.2mile run in the Second City.
“They often say spring and autumn are the best times to run, so the weather’s going to be perfect.
“Chicago is Birmingham’s twin city, just like New York is for London – so it would be amazing to see our city up there with the best.”
Organised by the Great Birmingham Run Company in partnership with Birmingham City Council, the marathon will take place in October next year.
At last week’s official launch, former Olympic-medalist Liz McColgan said it had the potential to attract some 40,000 runners and become one of the biggest marathons in the world.
The route proposed begins at the Alexander Stadium.
It will continue through Villa Park, Aston Hall, Barton Arms, Selfridges Building, Digbeth, Cannon Hill Park, Selly Park, Bournville and Edgbaston before finishing on Broad Street.
Visit http://www.greatrun.org/great-birmingham-run for more information.
