Numbers have gradually increased from year to year with a record number of runners expected to converge on Town Green on March 12.

Runners will go out to the second bridge on Settlement Point Road and then out to the breakwall on the way to Town Beach.

Race director Kevin Chilvers has his eyes set on more than 1300 runners to challenge themselves across the half-marathon, 10-kilometre and 5-kilometre events.

A well-known sporting identity is expected to be one of the 1400 entrants.

“He’s the godfather of marathon running in Australia, but a real guru internationally so we are very excited to have him here,” Chilvers said.

“He has helped people find themselves through running.”

2017 will be Chilvers’ first in his new role.

“One of the new things we introduced is the treble breakwall buster,” he said.

“Over the years a number of people have been taking on the half-marathon, the 10 and the 5 kay, but this year we’ve made it an official event.

“We’ve got 58 people registered for that so far and they’ll get four medals for the price of three runs.”

Port News personality Sue Fitzgerald will test herself in the 10-kilometre event.

In total, $5000 in cash and prizes will be awarded to all the age groups and place getters in each of the races.

“It’s not necessarily about the fast guys, it’s about getting out there and having a go,” Chilvers said.

“We’ve got people coming from all around Australia participating.

“There is an excitement of a real run culture that is building in Port Macquarie. It’s a fantastic event that not only showcases running, but this beautiful foreshore area we have.”

For further information, log on to www.portmacquarierunningfestival.com.au.