Runners and duathletes get set for Maxifuel Eton and Windsor Fun Run and Duathlon

Race preview: Entries on the day are being taken at the Maxifuel Eton and Windsor Fun Run and Duathlon - March 22 & 23, 2014

Sporting action is set to return to the stunning Dorney Lake venue this Saturday 22nd and 23rd March, as over 1,000 runners and duathletes look to get on the start line for the Maxifuel Eton and Windsor Fun Run and Duathlon Winter Series third meet. Now in its 7th year, this fixture is the second in the 2014 series and is regarded as the countries premiere Winter run and duathlon competition to take part in.

The action kicks off with the popular Maxifuel Half Marathon on Saturday 22nd March, with 500 runners expected to take on the challenging distance starting at Dorney Lake, one of the iconic London Olympic Games venues. The race takes place on very flat, smooth tarmac roads and paths which are completely traffic free, comprising of 4.5 loops of scenic Dorney Lake.  The race provides the perfect - and fastest - half marathon in preparation for the 2014 London Marathon.

The following day, athletes and fitness fans of all abilities will have the option of a variety of run distances, including the popular 5km and 10km races, whilst those looking to go a bit further can take on the brand new 15km distance. The exciting duathlon run-bike-run format returns after a successful debut last year with race options including a Super Sprint, Sprint and Olympic distance and amongst the 500 competitors that raced the 2nd meet on the 22nd February was double-Olympian Kelly Holmes to complete her first ever duathlon.

Photos: Race option for all, with a half marathon, 5k, 10k and 15km run, as well as Super Sprint, Sprint and Olympic distance duathlons. Double-Olympian Kelly Holmes

This weekend’s duathlon race is expected to be even hotter and not just because the temperature is set to rise, with the previous winner and member of the semi-professional outfit Team Racetime Nicki Aitken expected to contest the women’ race and young Alex Yee, a promising National Youth Duathlon and XC Champion tipped to do well. Indeed, it is anticipated that youth may win the day, with the talented development squad at the renowned T2 Coaching having been entered en-masse – with several Team GB Youth and Junior athletes hoping to test themselves against the seniors. It should make for a fascinating race and fantastic atmosphere.

Martyn Edwards, owner of the event organisers F3 Events said: "We are delighted to return to the iconic Dorney Lake venue for these running and duathlon races. It is a wonderful venue for sport and an opportunity for people to race at one the venues used in the London Olympic Games.

"These events are perfect for anyone looking to get fit or take part in their first event. The Maxifuel Eton and Windsor Fun Run and Duathlons offer 100% accurate course and are 100% traffic free. It’s a fast and fun race and in the perfect location for watching events with every discipline only an arm’s length away."

Whilst it is too late to enter the races online, you can still take part with cash-only entries being taken on the morning of the race.

Dorney Lake, Eton College Rowing Centre is conveniently located along the M4 Motorway, only 20 minutes from London and 15 minutes from the M25 and M40 motorways.

The event will have full car parking facilities available, which will be in operation to allow participants to come and go, whilst the event is still taking place and makes it perfect for spectators and family to attend and soak up the atmosphere. The event also has full catering facilities, music and commentary, massage, on-course nutrition plus fun and games for kids of all ages – not to mention a great atmosphere for competitors and spectators.

The Maxifuel Windsor and Eton Winter Fun Run and Duathlon Series are partnered with Ashmei Apparel, Triathlete Europe, XTERRA Wetsuits and Wattbike. Their charity partners are the Sue Ryder fund.

More information and entry information can be found at www.f3events.co.uk