The ninth running of the Enniskillen Spooktacular, which takes place tomorrow night (Friday), is on course to see record numbers take part.

The popular 5K run/walk is the largest night time event of its kind in Ireland and is now established as a firm fixture in the Fermanagh sporting calendar.

“We are estimating that this is going to be the biggest Spooktacular yet with online applications having already surpassed last year’s total,” said Stephen Clawson of organising club, Enniskillen Running Club.

“We feel that numbers are going to be around 1,250 to 1,300 which would be up nearly 200 on last year and that shows the popularity of it and it is down to the inspiration of the late Martin Dillon whose idea it was to have the Spooktacular.”

The numbers have been swelled by the increasing number of Couch to 5K groups taking part in the event.

“We have had a great response from the Couch to 5K groups and we at the club run one and it has been very popular.

“It is about promoting running in the county for all ages and all abilities which is the club’s ethos,” said Stephen.

The race will get underway at 8pm with roads closing around the town at 7.30pm and Stephen advises participants and spectators to get into Enniskillen early.

“The main advice would be to come in early and avoid the road closures.

“We would also advise participants to wear bright clothes and in general to be careful on the night,” he added.

Online entries are now closed but anyone interested in taking part can still register at St. Michael’s Community Centre (behind the Clinton Centre) on Thursday October 24 from 5pm to 8.30pm closed or on race day, Friday October 25, from 5pm to 7pm sharp.

Race Pack collections will also be at the same times.

An event like this takes a lot of organising and relies heavily on volunteers, as Stephen explains.

“We have to thank Race Co-Ordinator Dessie Elton who has put a lot of work and effort over the last four years into making this a success and also to all the volunteers. It takes upward of 100 volunteers from the club to help with the running on the night and we would like to thank them too.”

And Stephen says that it is also not possible without the sponsorship they receive.

“The key sponsors are Nature’s Choice, Western Cars and Haldane Fisher and without them and all the other sponsors it would not be possible to have such a successful event,” he commented.

As usual there will be prizes for the best Fancy Dress on the night and judging for that will take place from 7.30pm in the St Michael’s Community Centre Yard by the FLive Committee.

Prize money on the night is over £1,500 and Pat’s Bar will host the post race event and prize giving.