If seeing the Bannister Mile or the Town and Gown 10k earlier this month made you want to pound the pavement this summer - you're in luck! We've put together a list of some great organised races coming up this year.
June
Run Jericho 5k and 10k
What: A yearly fun run to raise funds for St Barnabas Primary School, with a popular 1 mile kids race (ages 4-11) beforehand.
When: Sunday 8th June, check in from 8am, with 1 mile at 9.15am, 10k at 9.55am, and 5k at 10.15am.
Where: Start and finish at St Barnabas Primary School, Hart St, Jericho.
Why: It's a pretty route, that takes you through Port Meadow and historic Jericho. The atmosphere is friendly, and the event benefits the local community. What's not to love?
Race for Life 10k
What: A huge, low-pressure run from Cancer Research UK - recognisable for its pink branding. There are hundreds of Race for Life 5ks and 10ks across the UK each summer.
When: Sunday 29th June, 9.30am.
Where: Starting and finishing in the University Parks in central Oxford.
Why: It's often taken on by beginners and fun runners aiming to raise money for a good cause. This makes it a great first 10k, as there will be a huge range of paces and abilities among participants, and the route is flat, predictable and partly over grass. It's also one of the most affordable 10k options around, while still providing runners with a medal, race marshals, and clear signage.
July
Race to the Stones
What: A renowned ultra-marathon, taking participants from Lewknor to the 5000-year-old Avebury standing stones, on the ancient Ridgeway trail.
When: Starts on Saturday 12th July, with the option to finish the route non-stop or stay overnight in the basecamp, travelling from Lewknor to Wantage on day one and Wantage to Avebury on day two.
Where: Starting in Lewknor, and ending in Avebury.
Why: The 100 kilometre route - that's 62 miles! - proves a different challenge than a traditional marathon. Conserving energy is pivotal here, so slowing down may actually be the key to a great time. The challenge blends tourism with intense athletic challenge, so for experienced endurance runners, this could be an amazing weekend escape.
August
The MTC Oxford Ultra
What: The whopping 49 mile (roughly 79 km!) Oxford leg of the multi-day MTC Ultra, which takes runners over the Cotswolds, Oxford, and Henley-on-Thames over three days.
When: Friday August 8th, 8am.
Where: This being the middle leg of the larger event, the race starts at the Travelodge on Abingdon Road. The course eventually delivers runners to Henley-on-Thames, some ready for the third day, and some for a roast dinner and 24 hours of sleep.
Why: As with the Race to the Stones, for seasoned runners who have conquered the marathon distance, this will be a great achievement and education in pacing oneself. Plus: lovely views.
September
SOX 10k
What: A scenic 10k around Wallingford, sponsored by South Oxford Brewery.
When: Sunday, 7th September.
Where: Starting and finishing at the South Oxfordshire Brewery taproom.
Why: The course takes runners over woodlands, trails and footpaths, making it both a bit more challenging and memorable than the average 10k. Also, curious newer runners still have plenty of time to train for it ahead of September!
The Henley 10k
What: A welcoming 10k in a looped route by the Thames.
When: Sunday, 14th September
Where: Starting and finishing near Henley Bridge.
Why: The entry for the run is slightly more than the average 10k - but this also feels like the most upmarket option on the list in terms of extras. Runners get a glass of fizz with their medal and a free neck buff; there is a 2k Kids Walk with a goodie bag; and free snacks and drinks at the rest stop. Participants are welcome to run, jog, or walk, making the event a nice family option.
October
The Oxford Half
What: A long-running and popular half marathon that takes you on a flat course through the landmarks of central Oxford.
When: Sunday October 12th
Where: Starting and finishing in central Oxford.
Why: General race entries are now sold out for this uber popular event, but charity entries are not, and there's a range of excellent local charity partners that you could fundraise for. It's a great, breezy route for experienced runners; but also from the start of June, it's a whopping 19 weeks until the half marathon...so if you're a beginner fancying a real challenge, we say go for it!
The Abingdon Marathon
What: Now in its 41st year, this long-running event takes runners on a gorgeous route via the Thames.
When: Sunday, 19th October.
Where: Starting and finishing in central Abingdon (naturally).
Why: It's a flat, fast course, almost entirely on roads, and despite their long and respected history, The Abingdon Marathon still considers themselves a small marathon. If you're a relatively experienced runner looking for a first marathon that's well organised but without overstimulating crowds, this could be the one.
Always
Parkrun
What: A very well organised, completely free group 5k run/jog/walk.
When: Every Saturday morning at 9am.
Where: There are half a dozen in the Oxfordshire area: Abingdon, Bicester, Cutteslowe Park, Harcourt Hill, Horspath, University Parks, and Witney.
Why:The hugely popular Parkrun now takes place at over 1,300 locations - and for good reason. Sign up once, and your issued a barcode that will be scanned at any event you go to afterwards to let you know your time. It's run by volunteers, and an incredibly friendly and welcoming community - expect to see dogs, kids, and those on out on a gentle stroll all taking part! It's great practice as well if the Race Day environment makes you nervous.
