Entries are now open for the five-mile road race and two-mile fun run, which are set to attract up to 500 runners, including competitors from as far afield as India and Scandinavia.
The race, now in its 36th year, raises funds for the NSPCC and is also a UK Athletics Affiliated Club run. Prizes are awarded to the top three male and female runners (aged 15+), top two male and female JCB employee runners and the first male and female veteran V40, V50 and V60 finishers. In addition, there are prizes for the first under 15 male and female fun runners.
Winners of the 2018 race were husband and wife Mark and Jenny Dalkins of Cheadle Running Club. Mark was first over the line in a time of 28 minutes and 41 seconds, while Jenny was the first female to finish in 34 minutes and 14 seconds.
Fancy dress is an optional extra for all runners, and last year saw an array of costumes including The Flintstones and Captain America taking on the picturesque course around JCB’s Rocester site. Runners follow roads through the factory grounds, past the garage in which Joseph Cyril Bamford founded JCB in 1945 and then around the stunning lake in front of JCB World Headquarters.
Organiser Mick Grindey, an engineer at JCB, said: “The event has a brilliant atmosphere, which is why people come back year after year to compete. All entrants will receive a specially commissioned medal in the shape of a classic JCB backhoe loader which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.”
Entry fees are: UKA Affiliated Club Runners and JCB employees £9 (£10 on the night), unaffiliated runners £10 (£11 on the night), Fun Run £5 (£6 on the night). Booking fees apply for online entries.