The countdown is on to one of the region’s biggest charity road races that will bring thousands of runners on to the historic street of York.
The popular Asda Foundation York 10K – hailed as one of the most beautiful city runs in the country – takes place on Sunday 6th August.
Renowned for its large crowds and vibrant atmosphere, the 10K provides a rare opportunity to run through the heart of historic York.
The largely flat route starts and finishes in Knavesmire Road, near York Racecourse, and takes in some of the city’s stunning scenery and historic landmarks, including Clifford’s Tower and York Minster.
Organised by Run For All, the run was launched in 2009 and forms part of the legacy of the late Jane Tomlinson who raised nearly £2m for charity by undertaking a series of gruelling challenges, despite being diagnosed with incurable cancer.
The event is chip timed and there are goody bags, medals and finishers’ T-shirts for all those taking part. It forms part of the hugely-popular Asda Foundation 10K series that includes runs in Leeds, Hull, Burnley, Lincoln, Nottingham, Bury, Leicester, King’s Lynn and Sheffield.
Runners can take part for a good cause of their own choice or one of the partner charities which this year are: Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Martin House Hospice, Macmillan Cancer Support, St Leonard’s Hospice, Candlelighters, Brain Tumour Research and Support, Mind York and York Against Cancer.
Lynne Preston, Run For All Event Manager, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of people to this corner of Yorkshire on Sunday – we hope they have a fantastic day.
“The York 10K is one of our most popular events. The crowds turn out in force and offer tremendous support to the runners. It all makes for a superb atmosphere.”
Julie Ward, Asda Foundation Senior Manager, said: “York is such an attractive city so it’s hardly surprising that so many runners are keen to take the opportunity to run through it.
“Many of the runners, including our own Asda Colleagues, will be raising funds for some excellent causes and I wish them all the very best of luck.”
The event also includes the free-to-enter Arena Group York Mini and Junior Run, which starts shortly after the 10K concludes. A 2.5km junior run will take place for children aged 9 to 14 and a 1.5km mini event is open to 3 to 8-year-olds accompanied by an adult.
Francis Fitzpatrick, Financial Director of the Arena Group, said: “We love seeing the hundreds of youngsters playing an active part in race day.
“We’re delighted that we are able to support these runs, allowing all children to run for free, and I’m sure everyone involved is looking forward to what I’m sure will be a fantastic day.”
The official partner charity of the Arena Group York Mini and Junior Run is York-based, The Island, a mentoring service for vulnerable or disabled young people aged 8 to 13.
