Promotion: OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO becomes AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group Championships qualifying race

Many runners already use the popular OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO as an important part of their spring marathon preparations but it will become even more significant following confirmation of its status as a qualifying race for the Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Championships in 2021.

The OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO is well known for its flat and fast course along the spectacular coastal road, meaning that athletes have a strong chance of achieving their targets and qualifying for the championships when the race weekend takes place on March 21-22.

The spread of selected marathon events that are part of the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Rankings creates a truly global series over one year, giving runners aged 40 and over across the world the chance to be part of a new era of age group marathon running.

The qualifying period is from September 30, 2019, to October 11, 2020, finishing at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. During this time, participants can earn up to two qualifying times and a place at the AbbottWWM Wanda Age Group World Championships.

Participants in an AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Ranking qualifying race, such as OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO, will earn points according to their age, time and gender.

The age group categories for men and women are: 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+.

At the end of the series, 1000 runners from the various qualifying races will be invited to the 2021 AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Championships, the location of which will be announced next year. It is a fantastic chance for top-ranked age groups athletes to gain recognition like never before and become part of the AbbottWMM community.

The community feel is also a big part of what attracts runners to Limassol every year and it has even led organisers to launch the #MORELIMASSOL club for its most loyal international runners.

As well as the promise of a fast time, the OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO is much-loved for its spectacular setting, views of the sparkling Mediterranean, beautiful climate, friendly atmosphere and first-class hospitality. With a range of races on offer, including the marathon, half-marathon and 10km, it makes an ideal destination for individuals, families, groups of friends and running clubs looking for a race weekend away post-winter.

Many overseas competitors book the special #RunLimassolPlus package which includes a 40% discount on race entry, OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO technical T-shirt, the best accommodation rates for race weekend, free pass for public buses over race weekend, pasta party pass, early race day breakfast and transfer to the start line on Sunday March 22.

OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO MD Andreas Spyrou said: “We are thrilled to confirm that OPAP Limassol Marathon GSO has been recognised as a qualifying race for the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Rankings.

“As one of Europe’s most celebrated sporting events, we hope that our participation in the series will encourage even more international runners to #RunLimassol and experience for themselves the beautifully flat and fast course along our spectacular coastline.

“It is exciting to think that some of our runners may go on to qualify for the AbbottWMM Wanda Age Group World Championships, and we wish everyone the very best of luck as we approach the beginning of the qualification period.”