Hitchin's 5km race enjoyed its biggest turnout yet this weekend, with more than 500 entrants lining up for the final event in Burnt Hare's 2025 calendar.

The weather was well behaved as runners of all ages and abilities took on the popular course, cheered on by supporters who packed the streets to show their encouragement.

Victory went to Michael Washington of Ware Joggers, who crossed the line in a rapid 15 minutes 51 seconds – just 14 seconds shy of the course record. The first woman home was Sareno So, finishing in an impressive 20 minutes and 9 seconds.

Organisers praised the community spirit, with many new faces joining returning regulars, and plenty of participants and spectators staying in town afterwards to enjoy Hitchin's shops and cafés.

Burnt Hare confirmed they will return next year with another packed schedule of events - they're also on the look out for sponsors 👀

• Hitchin 10km – Sunday 3rd May

• Hitchin Half Marathon, Tough 10 and Fierce 5 – Sunday 7th June

• Brand new Hitchin Bike Festival – Sunday 14th June

• Hitchin Triathlon – Sunday 5th July

• Hitchin 5km – Sunday 27th September

Jake Amos from Burnt Hare told Hitchin Nub News that the race's success owed a huge amount to the support of the Visit Hitchin team and the volunteers who marshalled the course.