Last Chance to Enter Grant Thornton Corporate 5k Team Challenge

The entry deadline for the Grant Thornton Corporate 5k Team Challenge 2013 is this Friday 6th September. Places have filled up fast this year and continue to do so with only two days remaining until the closing date. Entries can still be made via www.grantthorntoncorporatechallenge.ie

Over 700 companies will have entered by this Friday, encompassing over 2,800 individuals who are busy preparing for the race which takes place Tuesday 10th of September at 7.30pm in the Dublin Docklands.

Business advisors Grant Thornton and Athletics Ireland have combined to create this event in the heart of Dublin's business district. The event is aimed at encouraging social running amongst Dublin's business community in the International Financial Services Centre.Accenture, Invesco, Vodafone Ireland, Zurich, VHI, HSBC and AIB are just a few of the companies that will take to the start line.

The second year of the Grant Thornton Corporate 5k Team Challenge will see participants tackle a brand new one lap course. The 5k course will follow a flat, fast route around the Dublin Docklands and will include two bridge crossings: The Samuel Beckett and the venerable Matt Talbot structures that span the River Liffey. The change in the course this year will see athletes run down North Wall Key before looping back around at Sir John Rogersons Quay and back to the finish at City Quay.

Colin Feely, Partner with Grant Thornton, said;

"The interest in the run this year has been phenomenal with entries up 60% on last year. With only two days left to enter a team, tickets have almost sold out and I look forward to seeing companies from all over Dublin gather at the start-line for a night of friendly competition, team-spirit and fun."

Athletics Ireland CEO John Foley commented;

"We are delighted with the increase in numbers following a large entry last year, too. It is clear that the social aspect of running is alive and well amongst Ireland's business community. The team aspect of the event has really resonated with the companies and we look forward to providing a fantastic evening of competition and entertainment for all involved."

The starting gun will be fired at 07.30pm by both event ambassadors - Olympians - Catherina McKiernan and Mark Kenneally.

McKiernan commented;

"It is great to see so many teams entered for the race again this year. I'm really looking forward to it. Team events like this are a great way to attract people into running, which the increase in numbers this year is indicative of. The new 5k course for 2013 is a perfect course for beginners, first-time entrants and seasoned runners, and represents a fresh challenge for last year competitors."

Participants are invited along to the pre-event warm up at 07.20pm which takes place at the start line outside Grant Thornton offices on City Quay. There will be light refreshments including tea/coffee and sandwiches available for all participants afterwards. Pieta House - Suicide and Self-Harm Crisis Centre will receive 10% of each entry fee.