5K, 10K And More At SOTFOR
There is something for everyone at this family-friendly event, back for 2023
The Stoke-on-Trent Festival of Running (SOTFOR) is warming up ahead of its big day on Sunday 2 July with four events to choose from this year. There’s a 5K, 10K, Fun Relay and Fun Run along with prizes and medals as part of an action-packed event in the Potteries.
SOTFOR raced back in 2022 to great success and new organisers Gold Events are hoping for the same in 2023. Well supported by the local running clubs, many of whom will be taking part in the 10K which is also Reserve Race 1 in this year’s NSRRA League Programme. Competitors will be racing for those all-important points.
It’s supported by Stoke City FC and held at the Bet 365 Stadium where spectators gather to cheer the runners as they head off at the start and sprint for the line at the finish. This is particularly appreciated as they climb the hill up towards the stadium and the finish.
The event kicks off at 9.30am with the Fun Relay where teams of three people each run 800m. There is a prize for the winning team and the ‘best fancy dress’ team so get creative on the costume front!
It then passes to the Fun Run at 10am which is open to children as well as adults who complete 800m in the grounds of the Bet 365 Stadium. Prizes for the winners and the best fancy dress (kids will love this) and a SOTFOR medal for every finisher.
At 10.30am it’s the turn of the 5K and 10K. Held on redesigned courses, participants leave the stadium and continue on footpaths towards Blurton (5K) then Trentham Lakes (10K). Runners can expect some undulations and plenty of encouragement from the marshals as they make their way around a well signed route: giving 100% as they race for points, prizes and PB’s.
There are prizes for the first three men and women and age group winners and spot prizes. A medal and e-certificate for each finisher plus free photos and a personalised finish line video.
After the run comes the fun in the form of stalls, family activities, a bar and refreshments.
Avoid FOMO and enter SOTFOR at the AV Timing website. The page contains information about the event, the option to fundraise for one of the four charities and volunteer opportunities.
Image courtesy of Bryan Dale (Race Photos).
