Organisers of the Wright Hassall Regency Run are hoping for another record-breaking year across the board.
The 10km race through Leamington Spa had a record number of entries last year, with the winner setting the fastest time ever. The event also raised £22,000 for local charities – the most since it began four years ago.
The Leamington Round Table, which organises the event on Sunday April 6, is hoping to attract the biggest ever entry and has made significant changes to improve the race conditions.
Runners will now be timed electronically, thanks to a strap on their ankle which will automatically time when a runner crosses the start and finish lines. This will make recording times easier and prevent congestion at the end of the race.
The course will also be widened for the first five kilometres, to further reduce congestion.
And temporary toilet units and bag storage will be provided at the start of the course.
Those changes mean that 1,800 runners can take part this year, 300 more than last year’s entry.
Race organiser, Russell Hall, from the Leamington Round Table, said: “Last year saw all 1500 spaces taken up and we managed to surpass our target of raising £20,000 for local charities.
“We attract some very good runners – last year, the winning time was 33 minutes, which sets a very impressive standard for competitive racers.
“But the race is for everyone and the majority of people want a challenge and a motivation to improve their fitness.
“It also gives people an opportunity to raise money for charities both through simply taking part and by additional sponsorship if they wish.”
Jane Senior, a partner at Wright Hassall, said: “We are delighted to sponsor the run for the fourth year and it seems to become more successful on each occasion.
“The race has become a real fixture in people’s diaries – both for serious runners and for local people who want a challenge.
“The run also provides direct support to charities throughout Warwickshire and runners can also top this up by being sponsored by friends and family.
“We encourage anyone interested in taking part to get their entry in and get training.”
The entry fee is £13 or £11 if club affiliated. All finishers will receive a t-shirt and medal, with the top three finishers receiving trophies.
The closing date is March 30 but runners are advised to enter early to avoid disappointment.
For further information contact Russell Hall on 07980 660 783 or email marketing@wrighthassall.co.uk. You can click here to download an entry form as a pdf (115k) or pick one up from gyms and sports shops in Leamington and Warwick.
