Real-life races to book now

Read Time: | February 23, 2021

We've been loving joining races virtually this year, but we're also excited to see plans in the works for some in-person races later this year. If you're keen to get back to the start line, here's all the info you need to know

While we never know what the future holds, we’re hopeful that in-person races will be happening again soon. We’ve put together a shortlist of events to look forward to in the second half of 2021 and beyond that you can book right now. All of them have a COVID-19 plan ready to keep runners and marshalls safe, and places can be carried over if races are postponed.

Festival of Endurance at Hever Castle

3rd July 2021

Organisers of the Hever Castle Triathlon have added brand new ultra to their Festival of Endurance. Covering 50 miles, the hilly route runs through the stunning Sussex and Kent countryside, taking you from Eastbourne Pier up to Hever Castle. There are six stations en-route (some conveniently located at award-winning pubs!), and camping is available at Hever for the night before the run. Find out more and sign up here.

Badass Epic 10K

24th July 2021

An exciting new women-only trail event, this 10K in Fforest Fawr, Cardiff is a collaboration between Tough Runner UK and Badass Mother Runners. “For many women, entering a race can be really intimidating. We want to create an event that’s more empowering, where all abilities, ages and body shapes are welcome,” explains Bev Logan, founder of Badass Mother Runners. “This race will also be perfect for runners looking to challenge themselves on a trail terrain over a 10K distance.” Registration is now open.

Cancer Research UK London Run

5th September 2021

Normally known as the Cancer Research UK London Winter Run, this 10K is getting a seasonal makeover and becoming the London Summer Run. The route runs along closed roads in the capital, passing world-famous landmarks with live music to keep you going all the way to the finish line. Entries are available now.

Brighton 10K

12th September 2021

While the 2021 Brighton marathon is currently only open to charity places, you can now sign up for the BM10K, which takes place just before. It was one of the quickest races in the country in 2018 and 2019 (for those of us who are new race runners, that means lovely and flat!) – and afterwards you can sit back and enjoy watching the seaside marathon, ice cream in hand.

Leamington Regency 10K

19th September 2021

If you like to make a difference while you run, this one’s for you – every year, money raised from ticket sales to the race is donated to community causes. “It has a life-changing ripple effect throughout Leamington’s community all year round,” says race director Harpal Singh. Unfortunately the race had to be cancelled last year, but that didn’t stop runners raising money. “We managed to raise £15,000 because the majority of entrants decided not to request a refund – we were so grateful for the gesture,” Harpal says. This year, the race has been postponed to September, hoping to be able to go ahead. “Those that run aren’t just doing it for their own health and wellbeing – they’re also making a difference to someone else’s life, and we’d love to be able to hit our target of 2,500 runners this year.” Find out more and enter here.

Kielder 10K, Half and Marathon

2nd & 3rd October 2021

Said to be the most beautiful race in Britain, Kielder’s lakeside races are hoping to return in October. Set in the Northumberland countryside, the marathon route is almost entirely off-road, running around the picturesque Kielder Water.

Manchester Marathon

10th October 2021

Said to be the UK’s flattest marathon, this race through Manchester is a fast one that takes you past the world-famous Old Trafford, home of Manchester United FC. A small number of tickets have just been released, but if you miss out, charity places are still available and some even come with added perks like a coaching plan to get you ready for the big day.

Oxford Half Marathon

17th October 2021

Running through the idyllic, winding streets of Oxford while enjoying live music at every mile sounds so good to us right now. This half is also the largest outside of London to go plastic-free, which definitely puts a pep in our step. Ballot applications are now open, until the 26th March, or you can sign up to run for charity.

Running GP at Goodwood

Various dates, 2021 & 2022

If you’re not quite ready to commit to a race this year, this one’s for you. The Running GP at Goodwood Motor Circuit in Sussex is happening on various dates from 4th July 2021 through to 13th February 2022, so you can pick one that suits you. Distance options from 5k to marathon are on offer on the smooth, traffic-free route – perfect for setting a new PB, wherever you’re at in your running journey.

Reading Half Marathon & Green Park Challenge

Sunday 7th November 2021

Postponed from its usual April dates, the organisers of the Reading Half Marathon have confirmed that it will now take place later in the year. Finishing in the Madejski stadium, where crowds of supporters cheer you towards the finish line, it’s a race that is sure to make you feel like a pro athlete whatever your pace. Accompanying it is the Green Park Challenge, a 3K chipped route open to everyone from families to runners look for a quick timed race.

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