Thousands of runners are expected to flood the streets of Leicester on Sunday (1 March) for the annual Leicester 10K, one of the region’s biggest charity road races.
The 10-kilometre event, starting and finishing at Jubilee Square in the heart of the city, will take participants through city landmarks and green spaces as they tackle the spring course.
Picture credit: Run for All
The route heads from Jubilee Square into the city centre onto Granby Street before running through the leafy surroundings of Victoria Park and past the University of Leicester. Runners will also pass the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery and Leicester Cathedral before making their way back to the electric finish line on Jubilee Square.
The race attracts competitors of all ages and abilities, from seasoned athletes to first-time runners and charity fundraisers, and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic crowds and scenic urban course.
Siblings honour their sister’s memory
Among those taking part will be sisters Stevie and Tami, who are running in memory of their sister Lucy, who died aged 40 last August from bowel cancer. Lucy had been training for her first 10K when she was unexpectedly diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer and rushed to hospital. She passed away in August 2025.
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“It has been an absolutely devastating year,” Stevie and Tami said. “But by keeping Lucy always in our minds and thinking about how proud she would be of us, we keep on running – day by day, one foot in front of the other.”
While Stevie is an experienced runner, this will be Tami’s first 10K, a challenge she faces just a year after giving birth. The sisters are fundraising in support of Bowel Cancer UK and hope their story raises awareness of the importance of seeking medical advice if symptoms arise at any age.
“Lucy was an amazing sister, woman, mother and friend,” they added. “She was tiny, but she filled every room she entered with positivity and laughter.”
Firefighter runs in full kit for breast cancer
Also set to make an impact on race day is Leicester firefighter Taz Maguire, who will run the 10K in full fire kit to raise money and awareness for Breast Cancer Now. Inspired by someone close to him who was diagnosed with breast cancer last year, Taz has taken on a series of running challenges this year, including multiple 10Ks, a half marathon and a stair climb, all building towards a marathon goal.
“Seeing someone close to me go through a diagnosis last year and witnessing the impact on their family and on our friendship group was humbling,” he said. Running in the heavy protective gear adds a tough physical test to the race, and he will be supported along the course by colleagues from his fire station.
Taz, who is also a member of the UK Pink Firefighters, said his aim is not just to raise funds but to spark conversations about breast cancer and encourage support within the community.
A community event
Organisers say this year’s Leicester 10K will showcase the city’s strong community spirit, with participants running for personal goals, to support causes close to their hearts, and to enjoy a popular spring event.
For Stevie, Tami, Taz and hundreds of others, the race on 1 March 2026 will be more than a test of fitness – it will be a chance to honour loved ones, support vital charities and celebrate strength and resilience.
To find out more, visit: https://www.runforall.com/events/10k/leicester-10k/
