Jock Waddington will be looking for a third consecutive title in 2010

More than 1,700 race walkers have signed up to take part in the 85-mile Parish Walk on the Isle of Man.

Competitors have 24 hours to complete the 85-mile course which visits all 17 parish churches around the island and finishes on Douglas Promenade.

Race Organiser Ray Cox told BBC Isle of Man: "We are delighted that so many people are up for the challenge."

The race will start at the National Sports centre in Douglas at 0800 BST on 26 June.

In 2009, 1,621 walkers signed on for the race with a record 187 completing the full course within the time limit.

Jock Waddington won for a second year in a row, while Janice Quirk became the fastest woman in the event's history, finishing second.

Cox added: "Jock will have some stiff competition this year. The men's category is particularly strong.

"However, with Janice Quirk and Sue Biggart not entering, the ladies competition will be wide open."

The under-21 race is over the 32 miles to Peel on the west coast of the island.

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