SPAR-sponsored race saw participation of 700 runners

The SPAR City of Preston 10K 2024 delivered a challenging route and exciting racing as 700 runners took their place on the start line.

Starting and finishing at Preston’s iconic Flag Market, participants tackled a challenging course that wound through Avenham Park, one of the city's most beautiful green spaces, known for its picturesque but demanding terrain.

This year’s race saw a change to the traditional route due to the temporary closure of the Old Tram Road for ongoing works, but the rearranged route retained the park's unique challenge and scenic views.

The race was headline sponsored by SPAR for a third year in a row, through its association with James Hall & Co. Ltd, and runners were kept energised through the donation of SPAR fruit and water and Clayton Park Bakery flapjacks.

Preston came out in numbers to support the occasion, and the Flag Market was full of vibrant energy throughout the morning as runners were cheered on by enthusiastic spectators. SPAR mascot SPARtan added to the atmosphere too by entertaining the crowds and posing for photos.

Local businesses and organisations also showed strong support by competing and cheering on their colleagues, while raising much-needed funds for local charities, underlining the community spirit the SPAR City of Preston 10K generates.

In the men’s race, local talent Tom Iddon clinched first place with an impressive time of 36mins 35secs, edging out Neil Kenny in a thrilling finish who clocked the same time.

The women’s race was equally exciting, with Charlotte Gregory delivering a standout performance to secure the top spot, improving on her second-place finish in last year’s race. The MyFirst Mile race was once again held as an introduction to running for all ages and abilities, and it proved to be particularly popular with youngsters and parents as 50 ran in the race.

Emma Marsh, Race Director of the SPAR City of Preston 10K from organiser Not Really Here Media, said: “This year’s event was especially challenging due to the route changes, but the runners rose to the occasion.

“The enthusiasm and determination shown by all participants, from seasoned athletes to first-time racers, were truly inspiring. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year when we hope to return to our original course."

In the week leading up to the race, SPARtan had also been out and about in Preston on a school visit supporting children at Lea Primary School to get up and active during a day of fitness sessions. All 270 children at the school participated in the sessions, and they were kept going by donations of fresh fruit and water from James Hall & Co. Ltd.

Philippa Harrington, Marketing Manager at James Hall & Co. Ltd, said: “The SPAR City of Preston 10K is always a great occasion and our business is incredibly proud of its Preston base.

“The SPAR City of Preston 10K has firmly established itself as a favourite in the running calendar, celebrated for promoting health, fitness, and community spirit, and it was fantastic to see hundreds of runners taking their place on the start line in the 2024 edition.”