The Bupa Great Edinburgh Run will extend its growth even further when hosting the inaugural Scottish Inter-District 10 kilometres road running championships on May 3.

The district teams will line up in a field comprising several world class athletes as well as club runners and those competing for leisure in the mass participation race expected to attract around 10,000 competitors.

Teams from the East, North and West of Scotland, in addition to Scottish Universities, will compete in both men’s and women’s elite races over the testing course around the capital.

The men's race will comprise eight runners with four to count as scorers in the team race, whilst the women's sides will field six also with four counters.

"This will no doubt enhance the quality of the Bupa Great Edinburgh Run which has proved so successful in the last few years in catering for runners of all abilities," said race spokeswoman Lynsey Stephenson.

"The inclusion of the National 10 kilometres championships will also be another stepping stone in raising the standard of endurance running within Scotland."

Geoff Wightman of Scottish Athletics commented: "We are pleased that the BUPA Great Edinburgh Run is including the first 10km inter district championships format in 2009. It will offer competitive and representative challenge to Scottish runners at close to national level and mirrors the tier of racing that mirrors cross country and track and field."
 
The Bupa Great Edinburgh Run is suitable for runners of all abilities aged 15 and over. Anyone that would like to take part in the event can enter at www.greatrun.org.