Leeds Abbey Dash 2026 opens for entries as England Athletics Championship returns

The Leeds Abbey Dash is back – and entries for the 2026 event are now officially open, giving runners the chance to secure their place in one of the city’s most iconic and much-loved races.

Taking place on Sunday 29^th November, the popular 10K will once again see thousands of runners of all ages and abilities take to the streets of Leeds, creating a fantastic atmosphere in the city.

Now in its second year under the stewardship of Run For All, the event continues to honour its proud heritage, having been delivered by Age UK for nearly 40 years. As in 2025, Age UK will return as lead charity partner, with participants encouraged to raise vital funds to support older people across the UK.

The 2026 event will retain the much-loved format that has made the Abbey Dash a staple in the city’s sporting calendar, while building on Run For All’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and community spirit. Whether chasing a personal best, tackling a first 10K, fundraising for charity or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Abbey Dash offers something for everyone.

Adding to the excitement, the Leeds Abbey Dash has once again been confirmed as the England Athletics 10K championship race for 2026, cementing its position as a key fixture on the national road racing calendar and attracting both elite athletes and mass participation alike. As a result, England Athletics will play an active role in supporting the delivery of the event.

With demand expected to be high and places limited, organisers are encouraging runners to sign up as soon as possible to avoid missing out on what promises to be another unforgettable event.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said: ‘We are incredibly excited to launch the 2026 Leeds Abbey Dash and build on the success of last year’s event, once again working in collaboration with Age UK and England Athletics.

‘The Abbey Dash is a great race with a long-standing place in Leeds’ sporting calendar, and we’re excited to once again welcome thousands of runners back to the city this November.  

‘Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, taking on your first 10k, or running to support Age UK, we’d encourage anyone thinking about taking part to sign up early and be part of what promises to be a fantastic day.’

Barry Hopkins, Head of RunEvents & Licensing at England Athletics, said: 'It’s great to be working again with Run For All, and their lead charity partner, Age UK, at the Leeds Abbey Dash. We will be offering opportunities for all levels of runners at this exciting event, whether they be from our network of clubs across the country, our RunTogether groups, runners who are part of our RUN:EA individual membership or just those who love running.

The Leeds Abbey Dash will also host the England 10k Championship for the top athletes in the country on what is a brilliant route for those chasing top end performances.

It’s really important that we sit at the heart of the Sport, working in collaboration with key partners to make the Sport stronger and open to all. Our partnership with Run For All is a great demonstration of this collaborative working in action.'

Hannorah Lee, Fundraising Director at Age UK, said: ‘The Leeds Abbey Dash is a much-loved event for longtime supporters and new runners alike, and Age UK is delighted to see it return this year. We’re proud to be the lead charity partner once again, with funds raised helping to support older people in Leeds and beyond.

‘Run For All delivered a fantastic event last year, and I’d encourage anyone considering taking part to get involved. It’s a great day out – and by supporting Age UK, you’ll help older people feel included and valued.’