Athletics: Strong response for Chch marathon

The Christchurch marathon will go ahead as planned. Photo / Getty Images

The annual Christchurch marathon will go ahead as planned next week despite the devastating effects of the February earthquake in the city.

Race director Chris Cox originally thought the damage wreaked upon Christchurch would make the marathon a ..., but he has been persuaded otherwise due to the strong demand from competitors for the race to go ahead.

Entries have yet to close but already 3500 have registered to compete on a revised course on June 5.

He has organised a new race venue at Lincoln University to replace the previous course, much of which was seriously damaged at Hagley Park and alongside the Avon River.

"This event means a lot to me," Cox said.

"I was a participant for many years before I took over organising it 16 years ago, so it has been a big part of my life. But I've been astounded by just how much it means to other people."

Cox said people stopped him in the street and at airports asking whether the marathon would go ahead and he is pleased with the response from runners.

"Following the earthquake the marathon was like the rest of Christchurch. We didn't know what was next. Lincoln University and township were really supportive of relocating the event there, and now Christchurch is getting back on its feet, which means the marathon is back on its feet too."

Close to 100 Australians have entered, while past winners such as Phil Costley and Dale Warrander were among the first to sign up.

"Kate Seibold from Australia, who won the back in 2007, had entered prior to the earthquake but contacted us in March saying she is still coming. It's been incredible."