Runners in action at last year’s SMile. Picture: Baz Hipwell
Wildcard races will also be taking place at the UEA Sportspark again. Picture: Baz Hipwell
Entries will be ranked by age grading, rather than time submitted, with the aim to create a level playing field for all.
Athletes in the Under 13 category (Years 6 & 7) upwards to seniors/masters can enter. There will be four categories; male runners, female runners, male wheelchair and female wheelchair.
The first quarter final is due to take place on Friday, April 1 with 24 athletes qualifying for the semi-finals. Nine runners will then qualify out of these races for the Grand Final - date to be confirmed.
Sportlink owner Neil Featherby said: “Whilst last year’s tournament was really exciting, it was also something very new for which it also gave us the chance to see how we could then improve on it. I think we have now done this whereby the excitement levels will be even higher whilst also giving people of all ages and abilities the opportunity to make the track finals.”
Athletics Norfolk chairman, Clive Poyner, added: “Last year’s SMile was a tremendous success. This year we are hoping to build further on the formula. We have attempted to make the final places accessible to all if you are fast enough for your age and gender. The series should be very exciting and great to watch. To make sure everyone gets the chance to shine this year we have included a wheelchair category.”
Entries will open on February 1, costing £9.95. You can find out more information about SMile here… https://totalracetiming.co.uk/race/331
