May The Fourth Be In Langtoft
A fantastic May Day event is on offer in Lincolnshire...
The Langtoft 10K and 3K Fun Run will return on 4 May, promising another fantastic day of road running in the heart of rural Lincolnshire. Now entering its 34th year, this popular event continues to blend fast, scenic racing with a warm village welcome that keeps runners coming back year after year.
Starting and finishing at Langtoft Sports Field, the 10K route is flat, certified accurate and winds through picturesque countryside roads linking the villages of Langtoft, Greatford and Barholm. While the roads remain open to traffic, the course is well marshalled and includes drinks stations, giving it the feel of a larger city event with all the charm of a village race.
One of the race’s standout features is the Beat the Record challenge, which offers a £100 cash prize for anyone who breaks the long-standing course records - 30:57 for men and 36:32 for women. It’s a tempting target for competitive club runners, while the flat terrain also makes it ideal for those chasing a personal best or tackling their first 10K.
The day isn’t just for serious runners, though. The 3K Fun Run gives families and younger participants a chance to enjoy the event atmosphere, continuing a proud tradition that dates back to the race’s beginnings in 1988, when it was launched to raise money for the local playgroup. Over the years, it’s grown into a staple of the early May bank holiday weekend with a strong emphasis on inclusion and community.
Since moving to Manor Way playing fields in 1991, the Langtoft 10K has gone from strength to strength while still holding onto its original grassroots spirit. Organisers ensure that the money raised benefits a host of local causes, including Langtoft Pre-School, the primary school, football club and the village hall committee.
Last year’s race welcomed over 460 runners, with the sun shining on a bumper turnout that marked a full return to pre-pandemic levels. Reflecting on the success of the 2024 event, organisers said: “Thank you to everyone who turned out to support our 33rd race day. Whether you were a runner, a spectator or one of our wonderful army of volunteer marshals, without whom none of this would be possible.”
If you'd like to know more, visit the Langtoft 10K website.
Image: Langtoft 10K