Thousands turn out for the 2025 Leeds 10K

Thousands turn out for the 2025 Leeds 10K

The streets of Leeds came alive this morning as thousands of runners, spectators and volunteers took part in the highly anticipated and popular Leeds 10K, marking another triumphant year for the city’s flagship running event and saw the female course record broken in 00:33:39. 

Participants of all abilities and ages laced up their shoes for the 10 – kilometre challenge, with charity fundraisers, seasoned athletes and first timers all joining in to make the day a celebration of spirit, fitness and philanthropy.  

Organised by Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All, the event once again raised vital funds for a wide range of local and national charities as those involved were encouraged to fundraise for a cause of their choice or one of the event’s Partner Charities; the Jane Tomlinson Appeal, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, Athletic Minds Foundation, Leeds Hospitals Charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, Leeds Community Healthcare and Lees Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm.  

The 10K kicked off at 09:00am from the Parkinson Steps of University of Leeds, with the route weaving through of the city’s most iconic streets and finishing along The Headrow to roaring crows and electric atmosphere. 

Yohanes Ghebregergis crossed the finish line in the men’s race with a time of 00:30:38, while Heather Townsend claimed the women’s title, finishing in 00:33:39, a new Leeds 10K female record.   

Within the top three males, Matthew Thackwray placed second with a time of 00:31:25 and in third, Andrew Humphries completed the 10K in 00:32:07. 

In the female field, Sarah Potter finished with a time of 00:34:23 and Katie Brown in a time of 00:36:07. 

The Leeds 10K continues to play a pivotal role in the city's sporting calendar and is a key part of the Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All series after its launch in 2007. 

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Operations Director at Run For All, commented on this morning's event, “We’re absolutely thrilled with today’s turnout. The energy, the support from the crowd and the incredible efforts of all runners and volunteers made it a truly incredible event.” 

Mini and Junior events followed shortly after the main event, as the spotlight then shone on the next generation of runners. The Mini (1.5K) and Junior (2.5K) runs gave young athletes and families a chance to experience the excitement and camaraderie of race day in a safe and fun environment.  

The Clarion Leeds 10K Corporate Challenge bolstered the day; a workplace initiative that saw teams of five battle it out to cross the finish line in the quickest combined time. 

Set to return next year, 2026 Leeds 10K entries are now open and those looking to participate can enter now at a discounted price.