Gruelling hilly section removed from marathon

PUNISHING sections of one of the country’s most popular marathons has been scrapped as part of a course revamp announced yesterday.

The organisers of the Bord Gáis Energy Cork City Marathon said following feedback from runners, they have eliminated hilly sections along the 26.2 mile route to make it more enjoyable for competitors.

They hope the flatter course could lead to a record time this year. The energy sapping uphill section on Model Farm Road, from Inchigaggin Bridge to Nangles Nursery, and the tough downhill after that on Church Hill, have been scrapped.