Runners from Yorkshire and beyond hit the streets of Bradford this morning to race in Epilepsy Action’s Bradford 10k.
The event, which returned this year with a new summer re-vamp, raises funds for the charity Epilepsy Action. The charity is based in Leeds, but supports people with epilepsy across the UK. Around 51,000 people are living with epilepsy in Yorkshire and the Humber.
Over 1200 runners took on Bradford 10ks flattest route yet. The run started and finished in Centenary Square. It was the perfect occasion for achieving personal bests, with a lower incline and cool weather. First to cross the line was Jack Cummings, from Ilkley Harriers, with a new course record of 30:47, knocking 15 seconds off the previous record. Jack: “It feels amazing. I won the race three years ago, and as soon as I saw the new course, I said ‘I’ve got to come back’.”
During the final 5k, I could feel the wind pushing against me, but other than that it was such a great course – I love it.
If anyone is interested in doing a 10k, Epilepsy Action’s Bradford 10k is a really good one. It’s nice and flat, very straight forward – and the crowds are amazing.”
Jack was followed by Jake Ridding, from Sunderland Harriers & AC, in 2nd and Callum Zorn-Singh in 3rd place. Rachel Friend was the first woman to cross the finish line with a time of 37:56, followed by Luci Robertson in 2nd and Margaret Beever in third.
Since the first race in 2008, runners have raised over £600,000 for Epilepsy Action and over 16,000 people have crossed the finish line. This year, the event takes place in 2025’s City of Culture, making it an even more memorable occasion.
Louise McCormick, Bradford 10k Race Director said: “It was fantastic to see so many people out this morning, taking part in the race. There was such a buzz at the start line, with everyone gathered waiting, and this continued as all of our runners returned to the finish, back in Centenary Square.
It was amazing to see the course record be broken, especially as it’s the first time in twelve years. As well as this, we had our first ever wheelchair participant, who we are sure has inspired hundreds of runners and spectators today.
We were once again amazed by the support of the people of Bradford and beyond. We’d like to say a big thank you to all those who took part: the runners, volunteers, medics, supporters and everyone else who came along. You were all a big part of creating such an amazing atmosphere and memorable day.
The money raised will ensure that Epilepsy Action can continue creating a World Without Limits for people with epilepsy. It’s thanks to each and every supporter that we’re able to provide such life-changing services for people across the country including an award-winning helpline, support groups, a one-to-one befriending service and much more.”
Stephan Couture took part with his daughter Chloe, in a wheelchair. The pair completed the race together, with Stephan pushing Chloe all the way. Stephan said “It was absolutely wonderful. It’s been an awesome event. We’re very proud of ourselves – we do absolutely everything together. This year we’ve done Paris marathon, London marathon and Manchester marathon.
It’s so important for disabled people to be able to take part in these events, as it’s such an amazing feeling for that person. Thank you so much to Epilepsy Action for letting us take part in the race, it’s been an amazing day.”
Epilepsy affects around 630,000 people in the UK and around 80 people are diagnosed every day. Epilepsy Action is committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, by campaigning for better services and raising awareness of the condition. They provide a national network of support groups, with expert advice available on its freephone helpline 0808 800 5050 or online via epilepsy.org.uk.
