10km Race and Fun Run

Photos can be viewed here:

10k Race & Fun Run Photos

Time & Location

Date: 26 September 2021

Start Time: 3km Fun Run - 10:00 AM; 10km Race - 11:00 AM

Location: Bedford, Thurleigh Rd, Bedford, MK44 2YP, UK

About The Event

The first event of SDC’s year of celebration is a 10km running race and 3km Fun Run at the historic Thurleigh Airfield in Bedfordshire. Originally built for Bomber Command during the Second World War, the venue has been repurposed in recent years and is now home to the world-famous PalmerSport experience owned by former F1 driver, Jonathan Palmer. The course is fast and flat as a result, making this an ideal event for anyone attempting their first 10km and those chasing a new personal best. Both events will be chip timed, with the 10km also being RunBritain certified and the results uploaded to Powerof10.

Further Information

Getting There: The event is being held at the Bedford Autodrome, Thurleigh, Bedfordshire, MK44 2YP. Bedford Autodrome is located approximately 10 miles north of Bedford town centre and 20 miles east of Northampton. The nearest train station to Bedford Autodrome is Bedford (20 minutes). Trains from London leave from either St Pancras or any Thameslink station approximately every 20 minutes.

Arrival and Parking: Upon arrival to the airfield, event signage and a team of marshals will be on site to direct you to the nearest car parks. The main car park will be outside the reception to the PalmerSport experience, with overspill parking provided near the Northern Activity area. The latter is approximately 0.5 miles from the event village. Blue Badge holders can contact  in advance of race-day to reserve a space in the main car park.

Event Village: The event village will be located in the pit lane of the PalmerSport experience, which is in the centre of the track. The village will house toilets, a bag drop, light refreshments and entertainment for all the family.

Race Packs: All race packs will be available for collection at registration and will include a race number, timing chip and a baggage label. 

Medals and Prizes: All 10km participants will receive a high-quality performance T-shirt and custom medal for finishing (fun run is medal only). Spot prizes will be available for anyone to win. Examples include a new iPhone and Bedford Blues rugby tickets. Trophies will be awarded to the 10km race winners (male and female). 

Race Results and Photographs: Race results will be available on the SDC events website shortly after the event, along with free photographs (with optional charity donation) and videos to commemorate the day. Race results will also be uploaded to Powerof10 and RunBritain.

Disabilities: Both the 10km race and Fun Run are suitable for individuals with disabilities. Please email [email protected] before entering to discuss your individual requirements (e.g. how to obtain a free entry for a guide runner). 

Entrant Information: Entrant Information Pack

10km Route Map

The 10km is 2 laps of the PalmerSport motor circuit, with the start/finish area being in the pit lane. Each mile will be accurately marked out and refreshments will be provided approximately every 1.5 miles.  Marshals and first-aiders will also be on hand to provide assistance throughout the day.