Following another outstanding year for the Hailsham Community Run, organisers are already looking ahead to an even bigger occasion in 2027, inviting runners, walkers, supporters and volunteers to save the date for the event’s fifth anniversary on Sunday 16th May 2027.
Part-sponsored by Hailsham Town Council in recent years, the annual event has grown into one of East Sussex’s most popular community sporting occasions, attracting more than 1,000 participants this year across a variety of race distances. The 2027 programme will once again feature 10k, 5k and 3k races, alongside the much-loved fully inclusive one-mile event, ensuring there is something for people of every age, experience and ability.
Having established itself as one of the county’s fastest-growing community sporting events and now recognised as the second largest public event in Hailsham’s annual calendar, organisers are planning a memorable fifth anniversary celebration with an even greater emphasis on community participation, accessibility and local involvement.
As the Hailsham Community Run prepares to celebrate its fifth anniversary, organisers are reflecting on the remarkable journey the event has taken since its inaugural race. What started as a new community initiative has grown year on year into one of East Sussex’s leading participation events, attracting increasing numbers of runners, volunteers, sponsors and spectators.
The milestone anniversary provides an opportunity not only to celebrate five successful years of bringing the community together through sport, but also to build on that success and make the 2027 event the most memorable yet.
Project Lead Mary Laxton said: “Watching the Hailsham Community Run grow year after year has been incredibly rewarding. What began as an ambitious community project has become an event that brings together people from every walk of life, whether they’re chasing a personal best, fundraising for charity or simply enjoying the atmosphere. Our fifth anniversary gives us the opportunity to make the event even more special, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back in May.”
Schools, youth organisations, sports clubs, charities, community groups and local businesses are being encouraged to get involved by entering teams, volunteering or using the event as an opportunity to raise funds for worthwhile causes. Registration for the 2027 Hailsham Community Run will officially open on Thursday 1st October, giving participants plenty of time to secure their place at what promises to be the event’s biggest celebration to date.
Inclusivity remains at the heart of the event’s vision. Organisers are committed to ensuring that everyone feels welcome, with the all-inclusive one-mile run providing opportunities for participants with disabilities, long-term health conditions or additional accessibility needs to enjoy race day alongside family, friends and supporters.
Inclusivity Lead Karen Nicholls said: “Creating an event where everyone feels able to take part is central to everything we do. We want people to know that the Hailsham Community Run is for everybody, regardless of age, ability or experience. By removing barriers and celebrating participation in all its forms, we’re building an event that truly reflects the spirit of our community.”
Project Co-organiser Colin Mitchell added: “The enthusiasm we’ve seen from participants, volunteers, sponsors and spectators has been phenomenal. Every year the event grows stronger because the community gets behind it. As we prepare for our fifth anniversary, we’re inviting even more organisations and local businesses to join us and help make 2027 our most successful event yet.”
The organising team is also appealing for sponsors, businesses and individuals who would like to support the event through financial sponsorship, donated prizes or services. Their backing helps ensure the Community Run continues to grow while remaining an accessible, affordable and high-quality event for participants.
Anyone interested in supporting the 2027 Hailsham Community Run or becoming a sponsor is invited to contact the organising team on 07723 444209 or by email at marylaxton70@gmail.com.
Further information, including details of how to register when entries open on 1st October, will be available at www.hailshamcommunityrun.co.uk. Regular updates, announcements and behind-the-scenes news will also be shared via the Hailsham Community Run’s social media channels as preparations continue for next year’s landmark fifth anniversary event.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk