Feel the love for long distance running in 2026 and sign up for the St Valentine’s 30K which will return for its 32nd edition on 15 February. Organised by Stamford Striders, the event has become a staple in the early season calendar and a key training race for those building toward spring marathons.

The St Valentine’s 30K takes place each year on the Sunday closest to St Valentine’s Day and has earned a national reputation as a tough but rewarding challenge. Being a club race put on by runners for runners, Stamford Striders pride themselves on efficient race management, lively marshals and an atmosphere that spurs competitors on throughout the testing course.

A spokesperson says: "With the London Marathon's traditional April slot, we always experience high demand for this event as athletes plan races that fit neatly into their marathon training schedules."

Injecting a dose of fun into the event, the race offers a Valentine Pair category for 'genuine relationships', with couples invited to register together. Valentine Pairs will receive a box of chocolates from the club and combined finish times may be eligible for a couple’s prize. No official documentation will be checked – organisers say they trust participants to enter in the spirit intended!

If you'd like to know more, visit the Stamford Striders website.

Image: Stamford Striders/David Babbs