Story added: 7th September 2025

The 10th edition of Run Norwich took place on Sunday 7th September 2025, and it was nothing short of spectacular. A beautiful sunny morning set the stage for a phenomenal day, with just under 7,800 runners running the sold-out race — the highest number of starters in the event’s history.

This milestone year saw some seriously talented athletes take to the streets of our fine city, with the atmosphere buzzing from start to finish. Early risers soaked up the sunshine before the race in the Race Village, which was once again a hive of energy, excitement, and community spirit.

The 10k race, supported by strategic partner Norse Group, was officially started by Norwich City midfielder Mirko Topić, joined by Philip Nicholson and Georgia Baker, who were running in memory of Georgia’s mum, Melissa Baker. Also present was Justin Galliford, Chief Executive of Norse Group, alongside representatives from Norwich City Community Sports Foundation, the race organisers.

Race Highlights

The finish line was a place of celebration and emotion, with runners crossing the line in tears, laughter, and triumph. Many were running for personal reasons, and thousands took part to raise money for charity.

• In the men’s race, debutant Marshall Smith of Ashford AC claimed victory with a time of 31:28.
• In the women’s race, reigning champion Holly Archer of Cambridge & Coleridge delivered another impressive performance, retaining her title with a winning time of 35:34.

Among them were over 800 runners running to raise funds for Community Sports Foundation, all wearing the canary yellow t-shirt and helping to raise essential funds for the Foundation’s work with disabled and disadvantaged individuals across Norfolk.

Ian Thornton OBE, Chief Executive of Community Sports Foundation commented that “Run Norwich is always about more than just running — it’s about people coming together to support meaningful causes, including ours. This year was a perfect reflection of that spirit”.

“We’re incredibly grateful to our volunteers, staff, participants, and sponsors — especially our strategic partner, Norse Group — for their unwavering support. A special thanks also to Desira Group for providing the lead car for Run Norwich 2025.”

This year’s trophy presentations returned to the bandstand at Chapelfield Gardens, where hundreds gathered to celebrate the achievements of this year’s winners and runners-up.

Podium Results

Male Race:

• 1st: Marshall Smith – Ashford AC, Debutant  31:28
• 2nd: Danny Adams – City of Norwich AC, 32:17
• 3rd: Harry Allcock – City of Norwich AC, 32:41

Female Race:

• 1st: Holly Archer (Cambridge & Coleridge) 35:34
• 2nd: Mabel Beckett (City of Norwich AC) 36:42
• 3rd: Eleanor Grubb (City of Norwich AC) 37:02

An event for everyone

Before the main event, the second-ever Junior Run Norwich took place, with over 500 young runners lining up on Theatre Street to tackle the 1.52k route. This inspiring event gave the next generation of athletes a taste of the big race-day experience, while also supporting the charitable work of the Norwich City Community Sports Foundation.

Throughout the 10km course, the atmosphere was electric. Thousands of spectators lined the streets, cheering runners on every step of the way. Over 600 volunteers played a vital role in making the event run smoothly, offering encouragement and support from start to finish.

“Run Norwich is truly the people’s race, filled with inspiring stories of fundraising, personal achievement, and amazing support from the sidelines.” said Thornton.

“Organising an event of this scale in the heart of a historic city centre, with thousands of participants, is no small task. On behalf of the Foundation, I want to thank every single volunteer for their outstanding efforts — their energy, goodwill, and commitment made this event possible.”

All proceeds from the race, once costs are covered, will go directly to support the Foundation’s charitable programmes.