PLACES are running out for the world’s largest Ironkids event held in Bolton.

More than half of the places available have already been snapped up– 1,450 out of 2,500 slots.

The race, on Saturday, July 16, 2016, has become a key fixture on Bolton’s events calendar following its introduction in 2012. The main Ironman event – a gruelling 140.6mile triathlon – takes place in and around Bolton the following day and limited places are still available.

Bolton Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Youth, and Sport, Cllr John Byrne, said: “Places are being snapped up faster than ever before, which just shows how popular this event is with children.

“Last year’s race beat all records with 2,500 children competing, and this year’s event is set to be the biggest global Ironkids once again.”

Bolton’s Ironkids race is open to children aged three to 14 with different distances depending on the school year of the child.

Children currently in school year one and below compete in a 500m run (accompanied by a parent/guardian); those in years two to five run 1km, years six to eight run 1.5km and those in years nine to 10 complete a 2.5km run.

Each child will receive an Ironkids t-shirt in their entry pack and a medal after completing their run.

Managing Director Ironman UK and Ireland, Kevin Stewart, added: “Thanks to the support of Bolton Council, Ironkids UK has grown from strength to strength and it’s fantastic to see so many local kids being part of the Ironman weekend.

“This is a great opportunity for families to keep fit and healthy together and we’d encourage anyone thinking about entering to do so quickly to avoid missing out on this fun run event that sees thousands turning out to cheer the kids on.”

To enter Ironkids, which takes place in the town centre, parents or guardians need to complete an entry form at http://www.ironkids.co.uk. The fee is £3 per child.

For more information about Ironkids call Ironman UK on 01865 596266 or visit www.ironkids.co.uk.

For information and online entry for Ironman UK (1.2 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run) which is open to athletes over the age of 18, please visit www.ironman.com/uk.