They came dressed as dinosaurs and sunflowers, and one even had a wheelie bin strapped to his back.
Thousands of fun-runners, fundraisers and club runners brought a riot of colour to the city’s streets today for the York 10K.
Organised by Run For All, the race kicked off on the Knavesmire, close to York Racecourse at 9.30am.
Hosted by YorkMix Radio‘s Laura Castle and Victoria Charles – Laura provided the countdown – it was Lord Mayor of York Chris Cullwick and Lady Mayoress Joy Cullwick who started the race.
It began on the Knavesmire at 9.30am. Then runners made their way past many of the city’s most historic landmarks, including the ancient city walls, Clifford’s Tower and York Minster.
The route then looped participants into Rowntree Park and back along Bishopthorpe Road before passing the Terry’s Factory. Runners then headed back along Racecourse Road to soak up the atmosphere at the finish line on the Knavesmire.
First male across the finish line was Joshua Dickinson in a time of 30:32. Harvey Martin took second place in 31:36 with George Ravenhall in third in 32:02.
Charlotte Mason was the first female across the finish line in 35:22 followed by Becky Penty who clocked 35:32 for second spot and Sarah Hunter who took third in 35:44.
The Arena Group York Mini and Junior run also took place earlier in the morning. Families and friends of all abilities came together for a morning of sport and fun, choosing to run either the 1.5km course or 2.5km junior course.
Both events also started and finished on the Knavesmire, with the Mini run starting at 11.45am and Junior starting at 11.48am.
A great way for parents and children to stay active and healthy together, children were encouraged to fundraise for the event’s main partner charity, the Martin House children’s hospice.
This fabulous time lapse video by Noel Morgan captures all the runners heading along Bishopthorpe Road:
Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said: “Congratulations to everyone that took part in the York 10K and Arena Group York Mini and Junior events today.
“A fabulous day and an amazing atmosphere, it was great to once again have York brimming with so many participants and supporters.
“The enthusiasm and support from everyone involved, from the participants themselves to the many spectators, sponsors, partners and volunteers, all ensured the day was a fantastic success.”
As part of the event, runners have been encouraged to fundraise for their own charity of choice or one of the event’s partner charities. This year’s partner charities include; the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, St Leonard’s Hospice, York Mind, York Against Cancer, Changing Lives, Refugee Action York, Saint Catherine’s, Menfullness and The Island.
The York 10K is supported by City of York Council, Arla Protein, High 5, Up and Running, Coopah, Shokz, Gradwell, YorkMix Radio, Marathon Photos, the Yorkshire Society, York Racecourse and the Business Desk.
Entries for next year’s York 10K, taking place on Sunday 4 August, are now open at the Run For All website – with early bird discounts.
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