This is a fantastic annual club funded, chip timed event and a really good opportunity for the whole club to get involved, whether spectating or participating.
Organised by Ipswich JAFFA and sponsored by Ellisons Solicitors, the Ekiden relay race has become a well-established fixture in the local racing calendar, attracting teams from running clubs all over East Anglia. It includes a senior race (for runners over 16) and a Junior race (for runners under 16).
The Junior Ekiden race is run in teams of four as a relay in one-mile legs and is expected to be completed within 45 minutes. Children aged 8 and under are required to run with an adult.
The Senior Ekiden race takes place after the Junior race has finished. Teams of six runners run a total distance of 26.2 miles as a relay, with each leg of the relay covering a different distance, i.e.: Leg 1 = 7.2k (3 laps); Leg 2 = 5k (2 laps); leg 3 = 10k (4 laps); Leg 4 = 5k (2 laps); leg 5 = 10k (4 laps); and Leg 6 = 5k (2 laps).
Since 2023, the event has been held in the grounds of Ipswich High School, consisting of an off road, mainly fast flat lawned course, with each full lap an accurately measured 2.5k.
The provision date for the next Ekiden race is Sunday 7th July 2024.
Further information about Ekiden can be found HERE
Results from previous Ekiden races can be found HERE