Fakenham’s popular Easter fun day and races to return in 2024
Fakenham is hosting its annual Easter day of running and cycling races for all ages – and is inviting members of the public to sign up.
The town offers an exciting day on Easter Sunday, March 31 for people to join in with, or to just enjoy the spectacle from one of the local cafes or pubs which adjoin the circuit.
The morning is for runners of all ages and abilities and is followed by an afternoon of criterium cycle road racing, which involves several laps around a circuit.
Roads in the town centre will be closed for the day as Fakenham plays host to some of the “best racing in the region”.
There is some serious racing but also many people join for a personal challenge.
A 5K run is followed by a fun run which has been popular with children, but many adults have also taken part.
There is even a Toddle and Trike for the little ones.
Every child participating is given a drawstring goody bag with chocolate and fruit, and all runners get a medal for completing the course. There are prizes and trophies for the winners.
In the afternoon lightning fast criterium cycle racing takes place on the one-kilometre circuit.
Each race lasts 40 or 50 minutes so spectators get to see the riders many times. Riders reach speeds of nearly 40mph.
Spectators, friends and family can cheer on participants as they ride, sprint, jog or walk round the course. There will be commentary. plus stalls with food and more.
The town centre will be closed to traffic for the day from 8am to 6pm.
The running and cycling races are official UK Athletics and British Cycling events, and are run under their rules.
Richard Crook, from Active Fakenham, said, “We are thrilled to bring this popular event back to the town. We try to make it exciting for everyone whether they are joining in or just watching and cheering.”
“This annual event has been going since 2016 and we have had runners in their 80s and cyclists as young as two.
“Criterium cycle racing is an exciting spectacle as the riders pass close to spectators and because it’s a small circuit can be seen many times during the race.
“Like all Active Fakenham events we keep prices low and it's free to watch. We are particularly proud of our women’s Criterium race which has attracted top riders from across the country and beyond but also gives the opportunity for all levels of women riders to take part.”
Organisers would like to thank the many people who make this event happen and also apologise for any inconvenience for the roads that need to be closed.
Registration is now open, and details are on the Active Fakenham website. Numbers of entries are limited but there are likely to be places available on the day.
More information can be found by contacting Richard Crook, email address richard@activefakenham.org.uk or call 07887 803091
Reporting by Matthew Hill
