Albion manager Gus Poyet has been named the official starter for this year’s Brighton Marathon.
He will be taking a break from his footballing duties to send up to 18,000 runners on their way on April 15.
The marathon, which is only in its third year, has fast become one of the city’s biggest success stories. Previous starters have been athletes Steve Ovett and Steve Cram.
After starting the race at Preston Park, Seagulls boss Gus will be at the finish line to welcome the elites as they cross the line before handing out the prizes at the awards ceremony.
Race director Tim Hutchings said: “Having Gus as official starter for our third race in the same season when the local football club has taken giant strides forward, is a real privilege and fitting too as we like to think that our race has enhanced the profile of Brighton and Hove as a city of sporting excellence.
“I’m convinced the club will be a Premiership outfit in the not too distant future and marathon runners identify with this same application and determination.”
In its first two years, the marathon has raised more than £6 million for local and national charities. The first race in 2010 generated £3.5 million for the city's economy. The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors during the Brighton Marathon weekend.
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