Frankie (Saints Mascot) won the race, fighting off a strong finish by Newshound (from Daventry Express) “That was tougher than keeping a stadium full of supporters entertained on a Saturday afternoon” said Lodgey (from Lodge Park) who struggled to keep up with the race.
After an extremely successful inaugural event in 2009, with over 2,500 people signing up to take part, organisers are keen to stress it’s an event for everyone - experienced racers, keen runners, first time joggers and determined walkers / strollers. With a 10km main event alongside a 5km route plus Children’s Races, The Run ’10 aims to be even bigger and better than last year offering something for everyone. The Run ’10 will take place later on this year on Sunday 3rd October in Northampton.
One of the event organisers, Chris Holmes of Northamptonshire Sport, said "The Run ’10 is one of many mass participation events we are planning to stage in the county over the next 3 years to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Games, with the overall aim to create a legacy of sports participation here in Northamptonshire. The Run is more than just a running event – with music, art, dance and entertainment lined up along the route we also hope to blend in aspects of Northamptonshire’s vibrant cultural life as well".
The Run ’10 will start and finish at Sixfields Stadium, Northampton – the home of Northampton Town Football Club “The Cobblers”. The popular 10km event is suitable for people of all abilities aged 15 years plus and, running or walking, it’s a great way to get fit and healthy.
Stephen Horsley, Director of Public Health for NHS Northamptonshire said "NHS Northamptonshire is committed to supporting and encouraging people to live healthy and active lifestyles. Being physically active on a regular basis can help prevent a range of ilnesses such as cardio-vascular disease, obesity, diabetes and cancer. We hope that this event will motivate people to live an active lifestyle, improving their quality of life in the long term."
David Wright, Chief Executive for Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited said "Northamptonshire plays host to some of the country’s best sporting teams, venues, events and facilities and The Run ’10 is no exception. With sights firmly set on the 2012 Olympic Games, Northamptonshire’s very own mass participation event provides the perfect opportunity for all to come together, enjoy the county’s sights and aspire to their individual sporting success."
Starting at Sixfields Stadium the courses bypass some of the most well known Northamptonshire landmarks – Express Lift Tower, All Saints Church, The Guildhall, St.Giles Church, Market Square and the Saints Rugby Football Club. Whilst The Run ‘10is in the town of Northampton organisers hope that entrants will come from all over the county and even beyond the borders.
Anyone interested in entering is invited to sign up either on-line at www.the-run.org or to look out for one of the entry forms that will be circulating local gyms, libraries, council receptions and country parks. As an incentive to encourage participants to enter the event early, those entering the event before 30th July will be able to take part at the 2009 prices, with an additional £2 added to the entry fee for those entering after this date. So why not sign up now and persuade your friends and colleagues to get involved also. Bring the family, children and relatives along on the day to cheer the runners and walkers on, perhaps join in with one of the other fun activities that will be organised as well.
