Run Norwich to remain an autumnal race - organiser

10 September 2024

Andy TriggBBC News, Norfolk

News image — Bury St Edmunds runner Holly Archer became the fastest female to complete the course

Run Norwich Holly Archer crossing the finish line with spectators in the background — Bury St Edmunds runner Holly Archer became the fastest female to complete the course

An annual 10km (6.2 miles) race will remain an autumnal event, organisers have said.

Run Norwich was moved from its traditional high summer slot after it was postponed in 2022 due to extreme heat.

On Sunday, a record 6,923 runners completed the course which passes through the city centre.

Organisers said no date had been set for next year's event but that the autumnal slot "would stay".

Run Norwich Hundreds of young runners dressed in green t-shirts crossing the start line of Junior Run Norwich — A junior event was held before the main race got under way

Run Norwich Norwich City FC Head Coach Johannes Hoff Thorup stood on a double decker bus with a horn in his hand while junior runners begin crossing the start line — Both races were officially started by Norwich City FC head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup

Ian Thornton, CEO of the Norwich City Community Sports Foundation, which organises the event, said: "Run Norwich is truly the people's race, with countless inspiring stories of fundraising for charity, personal triumphs, and the incredible support from the sidelines."

Two new course records were set this year with Jonathan Escalante-Phillips completing the race in 30 minutes and 41 seconds - nine seconds faster than the previous men's record – and Holly Archer, 30, from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, shaving five seconds off the previous women's record by finishing in 34 minutes and 38 seconds.

"I had such a brilliant time, the event was organised phenomenally," Ms Archer said.

"It really felt like a community race. Everyone came together and supported each other and stayed around to congratulate each other which was really nice."

Runners passing Carrow Road, the home ground of Norwich City Football Club — The course passes Carrow Road, the home ground of Norwich City FC

Earlier in the day, 500 young runners took part in a Junior Run Norwich race, the first of its kind in the event's nine-year history.

Each year dozens of roads across the city are closed for the event to take place.

"We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the residents and businesses not involved in the event for their patience and understanding," Mr Thornton added.