The 10km charity road race and 5km fun run for the Northern Ireland Hospice is supported by the Belfast City Council, Sport Northern Ireland, Community Relations Council and the Department for Regional Development.
The Minister said: “This unique community event will start at Broadway up to Stockman's Lane, down to Clifton Street and back to Broadway using the M1 and Westlink and will provide runners with a unique opportunity to run on one of the largest road projects in the North.
“I would encourage everyone to consider taking part, it is for all abilities from young and old, to experienced runners and novices and I will myself be supporting the event by taking part in the run.”
By March 2009 the £103million Westlink/M1 scheme will be completed and fully operational.
The Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Tom Hartley, welcomed the announcement: “This will be a great event for Belfast which we hope will attract thousands of runners and spectators into our city.
“What better way to support such a worthy local charity than for everyone to put on their running and walking shoes and keep themselves fit and healthy? Hopefully locals and visitors will turn out for this family event.”
Professor Judith Hill of the Northern Ireland Hospice agreed, commenting that the event will be a huge boost to the charity: “It is such a privilege to have been chosen as the official charity of the 'Between the Bridges' 2009 run. We are urging everyone no matter how young or old to take part and raise the vital funds needed to provide hospice services for children, young people and adults living in our local communities.”
Organiser Dougie Adams from Cumann Spoírt an Phobail welcomed the Minister's support. He said: “This clearly shows what can be achieved by working in partnership with government, community, voluntary and statutory agencies.”
This was also echoed by the Greater Village Regeneration Trust, another community partner in this event.
Eamonn McCartan, Chief Executive of Sport Northern Ireland also welcomed this new event in the local sporting calendar: "As the lead agency for developing sport in Northern Ireland we welcome new events that provide an opportunity for more people to participate in sport and physical recreation. This unique event will provide an opportunity for participants of all abilities to take part."
To enter the event log on to 
www.betweenthebridges.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
- This event is also supported by Cooperation Ireland, Belfast City Marathon Company, Athletics NI, Belfast Community Sports Development Network, and HMC.
- Media enquiries to Press Office, Department for Regional Development, Tel: 028 9054 0887. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
