A successful running champion is thrilled a 10K race will take place in his hometown this month and is positive the achievable distance will encourage further interest in the sport.

Mark Johnson, 45 from Berry Hill in Mansfield, has over 20 years running experience with a strong athletic portfolio. The British Masters England Squad member was an eager supporter of the Mansfield Half Marathon and competed several times alongside his wife.

Mark is currently improving his fitness following injury and hopes to complete the 10K within 32-minutes as part of his training ahead of the England Selection in September this year. He said:

“I am passionate about running and my home town so am delighted the Reach Mansfield 10K has been launched in place of the Half Marathon. Over the years Mansfield has produced some great GB runners, and with an achievable route for all ages and abilities we may have opened the door to a new generation of Mansfield athletes.”

Over the years Mark has helped put Mansfield on the map, representing local running club Mansfield Harriers in various national and international running events.

Pat Carlan, course director for the Reach Mansfield 10K and Mark’s coach, said: “With an impressive line of accolades, Mark is a great ambassador for Mansfield and I wish him the best of luck ahead of the Reach Mansfield 10K.

“The 10K is the talk of the town and we are expecting hundreds of runners and spectators on event day. It will be a great event for the community and we hope even more people will catch the running bug.”

In the lead up to Reach Mansfield 10K, Mansfield Harriers are holding free training evenings for all abilities on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, from 6.15pm, at West Notts College Sport Hall on Derby Road. For more information, visit www.mansfieldharriers.co.uk

To keep up to date with Reach Mansfield 10K news and to sign up, visit www.mansfield10K.co.uk Join in the conversation on Twitter (@Mansfield10K) and Facebook (‘Mansfield 10K’),