GET ready to hit the pavement! Hailsham’s Active Run will be making its debut this month — after a 30-year hiatus — mark your calendars for Sunday 21 May and dust off your running shoes to join in this classic event.
With huge support from Hailsham Town Council, there are four exciting distances to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
Share the thrill of taking part with your family and make memories at this festive running event.
Soak up the buzzing atmosphere at the start line on the high street and medals awarded to all finishers.
Ready, set, go!
The exciting race begins at 9.30am in Hailsham’s High Street as runners wind their way through the parish boundary of Hailsham before finally sprinting to finish line back on Hailsham’s High Street.
Get ready for an extraordinary experience that awaits all participants!
The available runs are: 10k, 5k, 3k and 1-mile runs. Whilst there is no age restriction for the 3k and 1-mile runs, entrants are required to be over the age of 15 to enter the 10k run and 11 for the 5k run (by 21 May 2023).
The Routes

Hailsham Active has joined forces with Sport Systems, renowned for its professional organisation of races across the UK on behalf of running clubs, charities and local authorities.
“Hailsham Active is delighted to be co-organising the event with Sport Systems, complementing our mission to create a healthier Hailsham community,” said joint project lead Mary Laxton. “Yes, it’s true, we were inspired by Team GB’s success in the Olympics last year and are bringing back the ‘Run’ to our great town of Hailsham!”
“In the mid-90s we hosted various fun runs but now, running is a growing community activity, beneficial to participants’ mental health, well-being and helping to combat isolation and stress into the bargain.
Of course, this will be a prestigious event that will bring in runners and clubs with their families from across the area, and this in turn will also benefit our local economy and town centre trade on the day.”
“Furthermore, we are encouraging all Hailsham residents with any form of disability or special need to participate in the 1-mile inclusive run especially, using any form of support that they require. There will be a fully-accessible portable toilet on site. It’s so important to us to be fully inclusive as a community.”
Mrs Laxton added: “We are advertising far and wide to spread the word of this event, and now the Run is in place, it will go ahead regardless of the weather and applications are open! Let’s do this together and help put Hailsham on the sporting map.”
“It was a shame that we had to postpone the original date scheduled for May of last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but we are pleased that we have now launched the event and are accepting applications now!”
Steve Wennington, chairman of Hailsham Active commented: “Getting people active is our objective, and we are sure the Hailsham Active Run will be a spur for many to start gentle exercise, working towards another wonderful fun day with the whole community. We are very grateful for the unanimous support with this project from race organisers Sport Systems and of course, the Town Council, which is a major sponsor of the event.”
The prices and start times for each race differ. This all-inclusive event is the perfect opportunity for people with disabilities to get involved.
Plus, it doesn’t stop there — those who wish to attend can also register their Carers too! 9:30am: 3k Race: £4.00 • 10:00am: 1 Mile Race: £5.00 10:30am: 5k Race: £13.00-15.00 • 10:30am: 10k Race: £16.50-£18.50.
You will need to attend a registration ahead of your race, please factor this into your arrival time.
Age Requirements
The 1 Mile race is open to all ages, the 3k is aimed at primary school children, but all are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the race. The 5k is open to everyone over the age of 11 and the 10k is open to everyone over the age of 15.
Facilities
There will be toilets and a bag drop provided by the event organisers.
Don’t miss out — register now for the upcoming race! With a limited capacity of 400 runners, this event is expected to fill up quickly. Act fast and secure your spot today!
Even if you can’t join in the party, don’t miss out on what’s sure to be a memorable day. Come and cheer on our runners and show your support — plus take advantage of local amenities as they open their doors for everyone to enjoy!
It will create unforgettable energy with every racer crossing the finish line.
Race Sponsors
Hailsham Town Council, Crown Wealth Management, Alinka UK, Colston, Hallmark Glazed Extensions Ltd, Hailsham & District Chamber of Commerce, Stevens & Carter Estate Agents. Media Partner: Hailsham News.
For more information and register to take part, head over to:
https://register.enthuse.com/ps/event/HailshamRun2023
SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT

The team at Hallmark Glazed Extensions are very proud to support the Hailsham Run, as one of the local business sponsors.
It is going to be a wonderful event for the town and local community. We particularly appreciate the tireless work that the organisers, Hailsham Active, do to promote a healthier lifestyle for the residents of the town through their campaigning for improved accessible facilities for all, whether that be supporting local sports clubs, building an all weather path around the recreation field or organising free fitness classes. The Hailsham Run is yet another example and it would be great to see it become a regular date on the Towns annual events calendar.
From a personal perspective, I remember watching the Fun Runs held in the Town back in the 80’s and what an occasion it was for everyone. It’s great to see it return and the same positive atmosphere again experienced by both those running and watching.
Running has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past 5 — 10 years. No longer is it considered to be an activity for a select few. It doesn’t have to be about time or distance, it’s simply about getting out and taking it one step at a time, in doing so the benefits both from a physical fitness, and, importantly, mental health, perspective become apparent. I only started running a few years ago, in my early forties, and have found it to be a great way to declutter my headspace, within the world of distractions that we currently live in. Especially, as we are so lucky as a Town to have beautiful countryside on our doorstep to explore.
It’s also a great way to meet others, with the established Hailsham Harriers or local 6am Runners & Thursdays Running Groups, found on Facebook, a great place to start.
No matter your age, or running experience, the Hailsham Run will provide a great opportunity for those wanting to a PB or simply get up and running for the first time, with a selection of runs to suit all and take part in. Ultimately, though it’s about enjoying yourself and having fun!
So, sign up now and get those trainers on. If running simply isn’t for you, then put the date in the diary and be part of a supportive crowd creating an atmosphere to be remembered by all!
Marcus FitzGerald (pictured).
Director — Hallmark Glazed Extensions

