Forget medals and technical T-shirts. In Sheffield, the ultimate reward for completing a 10K is a Christmas pudding, and nearly 3,000 runners will be heading into the Loxley Valley on Sunday 6 December to claim theirs.

Organised by Steel City Striders, the Percy Pud 10K has become one of South Yorkshire's most cherished running traditions. The first race in 1993 attracted 600 finishers, but its popularity has grown so dramatically that entries have sold out ahead of race day for 12 consecutive years. The 2026 event is already closed to general entries.

The course is another reason runners keep coming back. Starting on Loxley Road, the out and back route follows the picturesque Damflask Reservoir towards Low Bradfield before returning through the valley. It's a gently undulating road race with relatively few turns, providing an opportunity for fast times alongside the festive fun.

And fast really can mean fast. In 2019, Omar Ahmed clocked 28:59 and Eilish McColgan recorded 31:48, establishing course records that still stand. There's a £1,000 prize on offer for anyone who breaks either mark this December, adding an intriguing competitive element to proceedings.

But Percy Pud is about much more than the stopwatch. Seasonal music, fancy dress and the traditional presentation of Christmas puddings give the event its distinctive personality, while proceeds help support local charities and community organisations. Steel City Striders have used the race to contribute to schools, hospices and other good causes across the Sheffield area.

For thousands of runners, Percy Pud has become the unofficial beginning of Christmas. The decorations can wait, the shopping can wait, but that pudding has to be earned.

Find out more about this South Yorkshire classic via the runABC race hub.

Image courtesy runABC Creative.