The prize money is lined up, the course is being measured and entries have opened for the annual Huntly Half marathon.

Planning for the May 22 event is well underway, following on from the success of the 2010 event which marked the 30th anniversary of the race.

The Solid Energy Huntly Half Marathon and 2XU 10km race is well-established on the running calendar and has a strong fan base. It attracts more than 2000 walkers and runners from Auckland, the Waikato and central North Island.

Chairman of the organising committee Nathan Campbell says the Huntly Half is a favourite for many runners and walkers and he’s encouraging people to enter early. “All entries submitted before March 17 will go into a draw to win a $500 prize, so don’t leave it too late. I know many people will have thought about doing the Huntly Half – I would urge them to enter now to be part of the action.”

Solid Energy says it’s again proud to be a major partner at the Huntly Half Marathon and showcase its support for the town and wider Waikato region.

“Solid Energy already has considerable involvement in the Huntly community,” says Communications Manager Anne Beex. “Partnering with the Huntly Half Marathon provides a quality event as well as other direct community benefits whether it’s the course that highlights unique features of Huntly, or the many community fund-raising and volunteer opportunities.”

Robbie Johnston, spokesperson for this year’s 10km naming sponsor 2XU, and a former winner of the Huntly Half, says the high performance sports apparel brand is proud to be involved with such a long-standing, highly regarded event. “2XU is honoured to be on board the Solid Energy Huntly Half – one of New Zealand’s most recognised half marathons. We can’t wait to see participants in the Official 2XU event t-shirt – and particularly those competing in 2XU crossing the finish line!”

The 2011 Solid Energy Huntly Half Marathon and 2XU 10km run takes place on Sunday May 22, 2011. The annual event, which starts and finishes at the Huntly Park Domain, has $15,000 worth of merit and spot prizes on offer, including $1000 each for the first female runner and first male runner home.

Entries are now open. To register online, view course maps or check out prizes or training guides, visit www.huntlyhalf.co.nz. Entries submitted before March 17 will go into the draw to win $500 of 2XU products. The event is run by the Hamilton City Hawks running club.