Record entry for tonight’s Jog in the Bog

An incredible 500 runners have signed on for tonight’s Jog in the Bog 5K.

The event, hosted by Bogside and Brandywell Health Forum, has grown in popularity in recent years, with tonight’s final number of participants expected to smash former course records.

This year there will be a brand new course. Starting at the bottom of the Old Bog Road, runners will pass Free Derry Corner and head under the Flyover towards the Lecky Road.

From there it is onto the Lone Moor Road and around to the Foyle Road before heading up Bishop Street and back down the Flyover.

The final leg of the race will see runners pass William Street Swimming Baths, before heading past Pilot’s Row towards the finish line at the Gasyard.

Every running club in Derry is set to be represented.

Runners from BOLT, Blast, Born 2 Run, City of Derry Spartans, Eglinton Road Runners, Fighting Fit, Foyle Valley, North West Triathlon Club, Pace, Reach, Rise and Star Running Club, have pre-registered, as have runners from Inishowen AC and Melvin Walk/Run/Jog.

The man to beat will be City of Derry Spartan Conor Doherty, who has won the last two Jog in the Bog events.

The Spartan produced a very impressive performance in last year’s race, winning in a time of 15:50.

The ladies winner was Maeve Mahor McWilliams.

There is something for everyone in tonight’s event, as there will also be a 1K Kids Fun Run and a 3K Family Walk.

The Kids Fun Run will begin at 6:30pm with the Family Walk beginning 15 minutes later at 6:45pm.

The main event commences at 7pm.

Runners who have not pre-registered can still enter tonight.

The entry fees are: £5 for the 5K Run, £3 for the 3K Walk and £1 for the Kid’s Fun Run.