Skipton Night of the 5000s

Guernsey Athletics has announced the date for this year’s ‘Skipton Night of the 5000s’ event, which, alongside the ‘Masters Mile’ is open to all islanders who may want to try running on a track.

The annual event has a fun and festive atmosphere and takes place at Footes Lane on Friday 5 July from 6pm.

For the first time, local bank Skipton International is partnering with Guernsey Athletics to sponsor the event. Guernsey’s fastest woman, athlete Abi Galpin, works at Skipton so it was a natural decision for the partnership.

There will be races for all ages and abilities, with the final event being the 5,000m race. There is free entry to the Masters Mile for all those over the age of 50 and pre-event training sessions on offer to help get ready for the challenge.

The challenge of running 5k is already popular, with hundreds regularly turning out for Parkrun or Guernsey Athletics-organised events throughout the year. Now they can come along to try their hand at the distance on the athletics track.

Tom Druce, Development Officer at Guernsey Athletics said: “There will be food, music, a bar, plus plenty of support. As the night goes on, participants will get the chance to watch faster athletes battle it out.

“We would encourage people through to their 70s, 80s and even 90s to try the Master’s Mile – being active at these ages helps people have a fulfilling, healthier life, and we want to celebrate that.”

Pictured: Left to right – Aaron Walden, Tom Druce and Abi Galpin.