1st annual Irvine Bay 11k fun run

Irvine Bay Regeneration Company announce their support for the first ever Irvine Bay 11k, which will see runners from right across the region running side by side to raise money for local, national and international charities. The event will take place on Sunday 16 August, starting and finishing in Saltcoats. All levels of runners and walkers are being encouraged to join in the fun and raise money for their chosen charity.

The run is being organised by local running-enthusiast, and current Chieftain of the Highland Games, Jim Montgomerie, also known as The Running Kilt. Jim began running marathons in 2003 in New York and has since then taken part in a wide range of high profile runs in London, Brazil, the North Pole, at the Great Wall of China and even a 95-mile run across the Sahara Desert. He is currently working hard to become a member of the prestigious Grand Slam Club, an exclusive club for runners who have completed a marathon or ultra marathon in all of the continents. 

Jim brings to the Irvine Bay 11k a wealth of experience, coordinating a family-friendly event with a lively and welcoming atmosphere. There will be a DJ, music and refreshments, and St Johns Ambulance will also be there on the day. Stewards and supporters will be encouraging participants throughout the 11k and refreshments, t-shirts and medals will be waiting for everyone who crosses the finishing line.

Jim Montgomerie, said: “Running is one of the most popular sports there is and it is a cheap and easy way to keep fit. I’ve seen so many people out running in the Irvine Bay area which inspired me to organise the event. We are looking forward to lots of people joining in the fun, and making the event a huge success – it would be great if we could make this an annual event, placing Irvine Bay on the running event map.”

Patrick Wiggins, chief executive of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company said: “We are delighted to be supporting Jim with what promises to be a fantastic event. We believe this will be great for the local area, encouraging community spirit and highlighting to people what a great place Irvine Bay is to live, work and visit. We would encourage people young and old to get involved and show their support.”

• £10 entry

• Send entry form and cheque (made payable to J Montgomerie) to 54 Sharphill Road, Saltcoats, Ayrshire, KA21 5QT

• Cash entries can be handed into The Victoria, 8 Raise Street, Saltcoats, Ayrshire, KA21 5JU

• Closing date for entries 25 July - no race-day entries

• For more information about the event and how to take part please contact the EVENT HOTLINE 07548 249554