26 Sep 2023
Looking for a challenge this autumn? Why not join the tens of thousands who make the Herts 10K a must!
Voted one of the top 30 races in the country thanks to its beautiful course and community spirit, the Herts 10K returns to Harpenden on Sunday October 8.
The 18th race winds its way through the stunning local countryside, starting and finishing at Rothamsted Research.
Founded in 2006 by Rennie Grove patron -and Chairman of St Albans City FC – Lawrence Levy, the race has raised almost £2 million for Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care – a charity that provides specialist care and support for adults and children with a life-limiting illness.
Year after year, runners return – some in the hope of setting a new personal best whilst others are keen to enjoy the camaraderie and experience of being part of such a historic and meaningful event.
They include the Newton family, grandad Ray, son Mark and grandson Luke, with the elder men having taken part almost every year since its inception.
Mark, who has moved from the family home in Harpenden to Crawley, recalled: “I was 30 and enjoying running to keep fit but great to race around my old neck of the woods.”
Luke, now 17, was 12 when he completed his first Herts 10K in 2018, coming third in the junior category.
Mark explained the attraction of the race: “Twenty years ago there weren’t the running events you have nowadays, so the Herts 10K was a perfect opportunity to race and be a part of something in my home town where I grew up and especially for such a great cause. I love running the route, around the areas I know well, especially past my old school Roundwood Park and the Nicky line, back to Rothampsted.
“It’s always a great atmosphere, rain or shine. It’s a beautiful setting in a lovely town. For experienced runners its competitive and a tough course but always well supported and organised. For those running for a bit of fun or to raise money for such a great cause, it will be an enjoyable and safe experience.”
Luke added: “We live down south so have always enjoyed coming to see my Nanna and Grandad for the Herts 10K. The whole family have run it in previous years so when I was young, I enjoyed cheering my mum, dad and Grandad on down the finishing line.”
The Herts 10K is open for runners of all abilities aged 18-plus with a junior category for 15 to 17-year-olds. You can find out more about how to register at www.Herts10K.com.
