Race stalwarts will line up alongside first timers as a record number of runners come under starter orders for the 30th anniversary JCB Lakeside 5 and Fun Run.
The event, taking place on Thursday July 18, is expected to attract a sell out field of 600 competitors, made up of all ages and abilities. As is tradition, there will be a five-mile seniors race and a 2.3 mile fun run, aimed at children and families. Both will start at 7pm and take in a scenic course around JCB’s World Headquarters, Rocester.
Competitors will include Mick Grindey of Uttoxeter, and Charles Bevan, of Abbots Bromley, who have run in every one of the annual races since the inaugural event. To mark the occasion Mick, who is an Engineering PI Co-ordinator with JCB, will wear the number "1" entry number and Charles, former JCB Group Electrical Engineer, number "30". Money raised on the night and through sponsorship will be donated to the JCB's nominated charity, the NSPCC.
Mick, who is also one of the event organisers said: “The JCB Lakeside Five and Fun run has gained in popularity every year and has become a real date on the calendar for local running clubs, JCB employees and families as well. The first race attracted around 100 people, which gives you an indication of how it has grown. We have always used the same course but for the first five or six years we ran it the other way around. It is the landmark 30th anniversary and that is helping us to attract a bumper field of 600 competitors – and a lot of spectators too.”
Alongside them will be Terry Day who has never run the race before, but is hoping to complete the course for charity.
Terry a JCB Senior Design Engineer from Longton, Stoke-on-Trent, said: “There is always a buzz around the factory in the run up to the Lakeside Five and this year is going to be extra special. I have never run it before but this year I thought I would bite the bullet and give it a go. I am also in training for the JCB Mud Run, which takes place on June 29, so I can combine my training.”
All competitors who finish the race will receive a specially commissioned medal featuring a 30th anniversary inscription.
Also lining up will be six-times defending champion Ben Gamble who be going for glory again. The Staffordshire police sergeant and Tipton Harrier sprinted to victory in a time of 25 minutes and 47 seconds last year.
To register download the entry form below. For further information contact mick.grindey@jcb.com or the JCB Lakeside Club on jcblakeside@tiscali.co.uk