IT is set to be one of the fiercest, fastest and most furious battles between Hampshire’s business community.

One of the county’s biggest employers is challenging teams from companies across the county to put their bodies to the test in Southampton’s newest mass running events.

Associated British Ports (ABP) is the primary sponsor of next year’s ABP Southampton Half Marathon.

Now it is throwing down the gauntlet to firms and organisations in the race to find the speediest business in the region.

There will be 6,000 runners taking to their marks for the 13.1-mile event which takes place on Sunday, April 26, the same day as the London Marathon.

It is being organised by Hampshire-based firm Marafun UK and takes in some of the city’s most eye-catching landmarks including the Itchen Bridge, the Bargate and St Mary’s Stadium.

More than 3,600 people have already signed up with around a third of them first-time half marathon competitors and places are expected to sell-out in February.

Corporate teams of at least three people are being urged to enter the half marathon and its 10KM sister route.

The best performing team will clinch the coveted title of the area’s fastest business and receive their awards at a glamorous awards presentation after the race.

Race director Chris Rees of Marafun UK said: “We’re delighted to offer the option for companies to enter a team. We’re looking for businesses who want to have fun taking part in the race, rather than elite runners, so it’s really open to people of all abilities.”

ABP is leading by example by assembling a squad of nearly 20 people including port director Nick Ridehalgh who has been training for more than three months.

He said: “Opening up entries for businesses to take part is a great way to get more people involved in what will be an important event for Southampton. Our team is really looking forward to taking part in the half marathon and we’re already working hard on our training.”

  •  To enter a corporate team email run@marafunuk.com. See abpsouthamptonhalf.co.uk for more information and follow @marafunUK for latest Twitter updates.