ORGANISERS of the Belfast Marathon have moved it to the autumn and say a virtual half race will be also be held in May.
The annual event has been moved to September in the hope that the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccine will allow it to take place.
Last year's race was cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis.
A virtual half marathon will instead take place on the May Day bank holiday weekend, when the event usually takes place.
Belfast City Marathon chairman John Allen said: "It is important at this time that we try to keep some type of routine and we believe that this temporary change of order will help motivate people physically and mentally.
"The 39th Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon will now take place on Sunday 19 September and we are encouraging all to support our event as we work together to bring back some 'normality' safely.
"The 2021 race will return to a Stormont start and finish in Ormeau Park with a few revisions, including a new team relay changeover point on Montgomery Road."
A three-mile fun run will also start and finish in Stormont.
The virtual half marathon will take place from May 1-3, with all runners completing their 13.1 miles close to their home.
Entrants must complete the distance in one session and upload their results before midnight on May 3.
For information see belfastcitymarathon.com.
