Following its successful relaunch in 2024, the Alf Shrubb Memorial Races return to Slinfold to celebrate one of the village’s most famous sporting heroes while raising funds for local community causes.

Taking place on Sunday 13 September 2026, the event offers something for everyone with a 10k race, 5k race and children’s races, making it a fantastic day out for runners and families alike.

The popular one-mile children’s race (ages 8–11) will once again feature the Inter-Schools Challenge Trophy.

The event has grown rapidly since its return. In 2025 entry numbers doubled, the 10k reached full capacity, and the inaugural 5k attracted more than 100 runners. Both races are expected to fill quickly in 2026.

Why Take Part?

Support local community causes

Run through the beautiful Sussex countryside

Chip-timed races for accurate results

Events for all ages, including children’s races

Refreshments, cakes and a fully licensed bar

Plenty of facilities, including additional ladies-only toilets

Replica Alf Shrubb medal for all race finishers

Prize category winners receive a winners certificate

The Races

The 10k and 5k mixed trail races start in Slinfold and take runners through the scenic West Sussex countryside, using a combination of local footpaths, bridleways and trails.

10k – two scenic laps finishing at Slinfold Cricket Club

5k – closely similar scenic route but one lap only

All races are chip timed and finish on the cricket pitch.

The one-mile children’s race (ages 8–11) will feature the Inter-Schools Challenge Trophy.

The 5–7 year-old race takes place at Slinfold Cricket Club, which also serves as event headquarters for race number collection and warm-ups.

A professionally led warm-up will take place on the cricket field before runners move to the start line on Clapgate Lane.

Race Day Atmosphere

Refreshments will be available throughout the day including tea, coffee, soft drinks and plenty of homemade cakes. The cricket club’s fully licensed bar will also be open.

About Alf Shrubb

Born in Slinfold in 1879, Alf Shrubb became one of the greatest distance runners of his era.

He won the 1901 National Cross-Country Championship by an extraordinary 350 yards, later breaking the three-mile world record in 14:17.6, which stood for 29 years. By 1904 he held the world records at 1½, 2, 3 and 4 miles, and in 1905 in Glasgow he famously broke seven world records in one evening.

A pair of Alf Shrubb’s running shoes, normally held at Horsham Museum, will be on display at the Cricket Club on race day.

Supporting the Community

The event raises funds for local organisations and community causes, and we are proud of the donations made in recent years. With your support, we hope to continue making a positive impact in the local community.

Additional donations and sponsorship are always welcome to help maximise the funds we can give back.

Awards

All finishers will receive a bespoke medal, a replica of Alf Shrubb’s original medal.

Awards will also be presented for:

Top male and female finishers

Age-group category winners

Top male and female Slinfold residents

Description supplied by the event organiser.