MEN'S NEW COURSE RECORD - King’s Lynn Comes Alive as Thousands Compete in Bespak GEAR 10K

The atmosphere was electric this bank holiday weekend as thousands of runners took to the streets of King’s Lynn for the annual Bespak GEAR 10K.

Delivered by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All with title sponsor Bespak, the hugely popular event welcomed a wide range of participants, from athletes chasing personal bests on the fast, flat course, to fun runners in fancy dress and those taking on the challenge in support of charity.

Runners set off at 9.30am to complete the scenic 10K route through the heart of King’s Lynn. Starting and finishing in the town centre, the course showcased some of the area’s most iconic landmarks, including The Walks, Red Mount Chapel and the River Great Ouse.

In the men’s race,  Josh Holam stormed to victory, breaking his own record (31:38 in 2025), crossing the finish line first in a time of 30:40. He was followed by Mitchell Bunn in second place with a time of 32:07, while Adrian Mussett completed the podium in third with 32:52.

The women’s race delivered equally impressive performances, with Leanne Finch claiming first place in 35:27. Second place went to Lucy Mapp in a time of 36:16, while Grace Buchanan secured third in 37:22.

An elite wheelchair field also took place, with those participating starting at 09:24. Susannah Rose Morgan crossed the line as 1st female in 46:03 and Dean Waring finished as 1st male in 49:36.

Adding to the competitive spirit of the day was the Corporate Challenge, which saw teams from local businesses and organisations battle it out for the fastest combined team time.

Following the main race, the Bespak Mini GEAR took place, offering a 1.9km course open to children and adults of all abilities. The sold-out event welcomed hundreds of participants, each receiving a medal, goody bag or water bottle in celebration of their achievement.

Beyond the competition, the event was also a fantastic day for fundraising. Participants were encouraged to raise money for a charity of their choice or to support the event’s partner charities, including the 8:56 Foundation, Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Linnets in the Community, Mind Norfolk and Waveney, and WNDA.

Kevin Reid Site Manager at Bespak said: “It was a great day and fantastic to see such strong participation across all age groups and abilities. The support from the local community was truly outstanding, offering great encouragement to everyone involved.  The commitment,  camaraderie and overall atmosphere on the day was incredible.

"We believe it is essential to play an active role in supporting activities within the communities where our people live and work, especially when local charities can benefit so greatly. The increased participation in both GEAR and Mini GEAR, which sold out this year, show the event continues to go from strength to strength. We are already looking forward to 2027!"

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, said:
“The Bespak GEAR 10K is always a fantastic event, and this year was no exception. We welcomed thousands of runners with a whole range of motivations, from first-timers and PB chasers to those raising vital funds for charity.

“We’d like to say a huge thank you to all the volunteers and spectators who helped create such a brilliant atmosphere, and congratulations to every runner who took part – it was a memorable day for all involved.”