A RECORD-BREAKING 42nd annual Two Castles Run saw more than 5,000 runners put their best foot forward.
A total of 5,220 finishers completed the 10k course between Warwick and Kenilworth castles on Sunday – the biggest number in the event’s history.
The annual race, organised by Kenilworth Runners and sponsored by Leamington-based Blythe Liggins Solicitors, was opened up to 1,000 more runners this year.
Richard Clarke, race director from Kenilworth Runners, said the event had the scope to become even bigger in future, as more than 3,000 runners were on the waiting list for this year.
At the finish line, Paddy Roddy took the spoils in the men’s race, with Ian Allen finishing second and Tesfaye Weday coming home third.
Marijke Tear-Verweij was victorious in the women’s race, ahead of Becky Fleet, with Paz Torres taking the final spot on the rostrum.
Richard said: “It was really rewarding to see everyone enjoying themselves on the day. The weather was perfect, it felt like the first weekend of nice weather we’ve had in June.
“We had a lot of runners say they are already looking forward to signing up for next year, along with volunteers, too. Everyone is very committed to the future of the event.
“We took a step up in numbers this year and we know there is the appetite for it to grow further. We had more than 5,000 runners, but there were also 3,000 on the waiting list.
“We’ll work with Warwick Castle and Kenilworth Castle to see if we can safely increase the capacity, because the scope and ambition to do it is definitely there.”
The Two Castles Run helps to raise money for various good causes, and runners were invited to contribute to The Myton Hospices when they sign up.
A total of 77 runners from The Myton Hospices took part in the race – another record number – to raise vital funds for the charity.
Blythe Liggins Solicitors, which has been a long-term supporter of the run, recently pledged to sponsor the event for another five years.
Donna Bothamley, partner at Blythe Liggins Solicitors, said: “This year’s Two Castles Run was the biggest yet and it was clear to see from the size of the crowds and smiles on everyone’s faces that it was a huge success.
“It’s really heartening to see how support for the event just grows and grows, as it makes such a difference to The Myton Hospices and other great causes locally.
Visit www.twocastlesrun.org.uk/results to see the full results.
