The Ayr Classic Run

Ayr Racecourse is breaking with 112 years of tradition to launch its first race meeting - without a horse.

The Ayr Classic Run means human runners of all abilities and ages can follow in the hoofprints of Red Rum. With no jumps to navigate, the going is guaranteed be good as the route follows a pathed circuit around the one-and-a-half-mile course.

Thousands are expected to sign up for the historic run when entries open for the showpiece five-mile event, the 3k junior run and the family mile. And with free admission for friends and family plus some great entertainment, there will be no shortage of noise and atmosphere to spur the runners on.

Ayr joins Cheltenham, Aintree and Newmarket as the latest racecourse to turn over its track to athletics. World stars Eilish McColgan and Luke Traynor, who have signed up as ambassadors for the Classic Series, reckon iconic Ayr will pull in everyone from elite runners to absolute beginners. 

Eilish, who won European 5000m silver last year, said: “This is a brilliant idea to get all the family involved in a new series of runs at exciting new venues. And I know some runners will be keen to be the first to do all four venues.”

Team GB athlete Luke, who has his sights set on marathon glory at Toyko 2020, added: “There is something special about running around such a historic sporting venue. It’s been done before on motor-racing circuits but this is a first for a race-course like Ayr. We spent time working out courses to accommodate all abilities and all ages. While the five-miler is the headline event, we expect a big entry for the junior and family races.”

David Brown, Ayr Racecourse Managing Director, said his team were gearing up for a big crowd to cheer on the runners on October 6. He said: 
“We are delighted to host the inaugural Ayr Classic 5 Mile Run which reinforces our reputation as a five-star venue. The Ayr Classic Run is a great opportunity for all runners, from beginners to elite, to relish the unique experience of running around an iconic course with their families cheering them on. We are already home to race classics such as The Coral Scottish Grand National and William Hill Ayr Gold Cup. The Ayr Classic Run is a wonderful addition.”

To enter:

The Ayr Classic Run is open to all – irrespective of age of ability. All you need to do is decide which of the four events best suits you:

The Ayr Classic 5 Mile Run. From elite athletes, club runners, fun runners, first timers to brisk walkers. Top cash prizes for the winners.

The Ayr Classic Junior Run. At 3k, specially designed for 9 to 15s..

The Ayr Classic Family Mile. For children aged three to eight accompanied by parent or guardian. Mums, dads, toddlers, grans and grandads all welcome for a Sunday jog, walk or toddle.

The Classic Corporate challenge.  You and your workmates can sign as a four-person team and compete against others for the Ayr Challenge Cup. Who will be the fastest company in Scotland?

Learn more about The Ayr Classic Run by visiting www.theclassicrunseries.co.uk