Organised by Freedom Leisure in partnership with Stafford Borough Council, the annual 10K once again brought thousands of runners, supporters and volunteers together for a fantastic celebration of running and community spirit in the heart of Stafford.
The milestone event saw a significant increase on 2025, when 1,895 runners took part, with this year’s record total representing an increase of around 17.5%.
Starting beside Victoria Park, runners took on the traffic-free 10-kilometre course through Stafford before returning towards the park and the finish line. The event once again welcomed runners of all speeds and abilities, from those chasing personal bests to participants taking on the challenge for the first time.
This year’s race was particularly special as it marked 10 years of the Stafford 10K, providing the perfect opportunity to celebrate how the event has grown and developed over the past decade.
There were some outstanding performances at the front of the field, with Lee Gratton (Rugeley Runners) taking the overall victory in a superb time of 30:33, Stephanie Giles (Alchester Running Club) was the first female runner across the finish line, clocking an impressive 37.33. The Under 21 honours went to Jack Hadley in the male category and Aimee Waters in the female category, rounding off a fantastic day of racing across the age groups.
To have smashed the record for the number of athletes finishing the race is a fitting way to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the 10k - one of the best events in the local sporting calendar. Congratulations to all who took part and all who supported the runners along the route. Thank you also to those who make sure the event is well organised, before, on the day, and after the race is over.
Councillor Gillian Pardesi
A huge thank you goes to every runner, volunteer, sponsor, partner, spectator and member of the event team who helped make the 2026 Stafford 10K the biggest yet.
What an incredible way to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Stafford 10K. To see a record 2,226 people cross the finish line is something we can all be extremely proud of. The event has grown enormously over the last decade, but what makes it so special is the fantastic community spirit surrounding it. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make our 10th anniversary Stafford 10K one to remember.
Ross Stephenson