Running under lights at Mooloolaba Tri

Mooloolaba hosts the only race run under lights in Australia along the tourist strip of the Esplanade with its magnificent beach as a backdrop. Only a handful of running events are held in the evening but that's exactly what happens at the Asics Twilight 5km Run, one of the feature events on the Mooloolaba Triathlon Festival.

This year the event is on target to top 500 entries which gets underway on the Esplanade at 6pm on Friday 26 March.

The Asics Twilight Run kicks off the three day sport and lifestyle festival and headlines the Friday night program which also includes the spectacular Sea FM Fireworks on Mooloolaba Beach.

With the absence of three time winner Peter Nowill due to overseas commitments the field is flung wide open in the men's event. Local hopes will rest with Maroochydore pair David Fellows and Laura Nolan in the womens category to produce their best form in the Open division.

Last year organisers were forced to make adjustments to the course configuration due to the ever expanding number of entries.

Race Director, David Ray said the changes will remain for this year, a two lap course to cater for the additional numbers of last year and the expected increase this year.

The supporting events on the Mooloolaba Triathlon Festival Program offer locals a chance to be part of the festival.

Organisers are keen to attract the support of local runners and urge them to enter this year and not miss out.

The run is not just for the elite but encourages people of all ages and abilities with categories from Under 16 to the more mature 80+.

Event Name:    Asics Twilight 5km Run
Dates:        Friday, 26 March 2010
Where:    Mooloolaba Esplanade, Mooloolaba
Race Start:    6.00pm (registration from 4.30pm)
Course:    5km, 2 laps Mooloolaba Esplanade
Ages:    Under 13 -- 80 Plus
2007 Winners:    Peter Nowill (14:38), Helen Stanton (17:18)
Prize Money    Male & Female
    1st - $500, 2nd - $300, 3rd - $200

ENTRIES
For all USM Events you can enter through the secure on-line entry form available at the official web site, www.usmevents.com.au or phone USM Events for queries on (07) 5449 0711.