A GOLD medal-winning Olympian has been announced as the race starter for a half marathon event.

Dame Kelly Holmes will be at the starting linefor the Brighton Half Marathon on Sunday, February 27 to see runners off their marks.

The double Olympic champion athlete will also be taking part in this year’s event, which sees hundreds of runners take to the streets of Brighton and Hove.

Dame Kelly said: “I am really looking forward to starting the Brighton Half Marathon this year

“Seeing mass participation events back to their best is fantastic. It has motivated me to get back training and run it too.

“So, my plan is to start the race off, jump down and get involved. I will not be racing – just enjoying the atmosphere.”

During a 12-year international career, Dame Kelly won medals at Commonwealth, European, World and Olympic level, culminating in two Gold Medals at Athens Olympics in 2004 for the 800m and 1500m.

She became the first British woman to win two gold medals at the same games.

The 51-year-old was honoured with a Damehood in 2005 for services to sport.

The Brighton Half Marathon is organised by Brighton-based charity The Sussex Beacon, which provides specialist support and care for people living with HIV.

The annual race is the charity’s largest event.

Other charity partners include Chestnut Tree House, Macmillan and Alzheimer’s Society.

The half marathon will see thousands of runners – both beginners and seasoned marathoners –get involved.

The race is due to begin at 9am on Madeira Drive, before winding its way through the city and passed sites like the Brighton Palace Pier, The Grand Brighton, Royal Pavilion, West Pier, Brighton Marina and more.

More than 450 volunteers play their part in the event each year.

Organisers are seeking volunteers to help with a variety of roles including helping with roadside marshalling, the start and finish area, drinks stations, baggage area and medal handouts.

All volunteers will be provided with a breakfast bag courtesy of event sponsor Donatello.

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact race organisers at half.marathon@sussexbeacon.org.uk or via the race's website.

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