British Athletics have confirmed that Thruxton Circuit will play host to the Müller 2021 Wheelchair Marathon on Sunday 28th March.

Due to the limited amount of competition opportunities for wheelchair marathon athletes over the past year and upcoming months, this event at the fastest circuit in the UK is set to serve as a key preparation for a number of athletes based around the country.

With entries for the World Para Athletes approved event by invitation only, the competition opportunity at the Hampshire venue will see some athletes race shorter distances than the scheduled 26.2-miles.

Entries for the marathon so far include Paralympic medallist Shelly Woods, who will be targeting a third Games later this summer. Elsewhere, the men’s entry list includes 2018 Commonwealth Games silver medallist JohnBoy Smith and bronze medallist Simon Lawson.

Paula Dunn, British Athletics Para Head Coach, said: “This is a great competition opportunity for several of our wheelchair racers who have had limited chances to race over the last year or so. A lot of hard work has gone into finding a suitable COVID-19 secure venue to host this event, so thanks to all the stakeholders involved who have made this possible.”

Ben Taylor, BARC Chief Executive, added: “We are thrilled to be able to host this prestigious event for UK Athletics and it will be a first for the UK’s fastest circuit. The event reflects the efforts we have made to ensure that Thruxton is COVID-secure for a variety of purposes and, like many venues, our facilities have sat empty for far too long. It will be great to have competitive sport back on our track; it’s just a shame that we can’t have the spectators back too.”

Races are scheduled to get underway from midday. Please note, this event isn’t open to the public.