THE South Wales Argus is again backing the Admiral City of Newport Half Marathon as the event marks its third outing with a new route showcasing some of the iconic landmarks of the city.

The Argus will continue its role as the half-marathon's media partner, bringing you information and news in the run-up to race day on St David’s Day, Sunday, March 1, 2015.

Three runners from the Argus will also be lacing up their running shoes and pounding out the 13.1 miles with more than 1,000 runners expected to take part.

First-timer Nathan Briant and John Phillips will be joined by veteran digital editor Martin Wade, who has run the previous two races.

Nathan has never run the half-marathon distance, but said he is confident he will get round if he can build up to it gradually over the next three months.

John Phillips completed a half marathon in Milton Keynes in 2012 and this time around will raise funds for the Eden Gate charity, which runs the Newport Night Shelter scheme for the homeless during the cold winter months.

There are some of major changes to the route for 2015 with the race starting in the pedestrianised area of Commercial Street, before heading out to Caerleon and then returning to the city centre along the River Usk on riverside pathways.

The last few miles will take runners along the river bank, over the SDR bridge before heading back to the city centre and finishing outside the Riverfront theatre.

The race, in aid of St David’s Hospice Care, was run for the first time in 2013 attracting almost 1,000 runners. When staged again earlier this year, the number of competitiors grew to 1,200.

Entry is £26 with each participant receiving an event T-shirt and registration is open at cityofnewporthalfmarathon.com.

St David’s Hospice Care is also looking for people to provide entertainment along the route, marshals and help with recruitment of runners.

For more information or to offer help, call 01633 851051, and ask to speak to Kris or Christine.