More than 600 runners are expected to pound the streets of Newtown with the town hosting its first ever 10K race this Sunday (May 21) - and there’s still time to sign up.

Described as one of the most “scenic, beautiful and extremely fast” 10K races in mid Wales, organisers say the “really flat” route will be pushing runners’ personal bests into new territories.

Adrenaline Sporting Events - organisers of the Welshpool and Oswestry 10Ks - are the brains behind the Newtown race.

Event director Alan Lewis said it has been arranged by demand of local runners and businesses such as headline sponsor Control Techniques who will have 45 staff members including its president taking part.

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He said runners visiting the town will be “blown away” by the views.

“This is very much an event for the town and it’s for the wider community.

"We are bringing a lot of people into the town who have never been before, but I think they’re going to be surprised how lovely the town and route is.

“The wider opportunity is these people could come back in the summer and spend more time in the town as a result of this event introducing them to the area.”

Which roads will be closed for the Newtown 10K?

  • Back Lane and Long Bridge Street from 8.55am to 9.10am
  • Canal Road from 9am to 9.30am
  • Llanllwchaiarn Church to the water works lane from 9.05am to 9.35am

The Welsh Athletics licensed event starts at 9am outside Hafan yr Afon, Back Lane and will take runners through the town centre via Canal Road to Llanllwchaiarn and the water works before turning back along the canal path, crossing the Halfpenny Bridge and then past the ruins of St Mary’s Church, passing the riverside venue towards Trehafren Fields and Park Lane before returning to Back Lane car park where runners will receive a well earned bespoke medal featuring Newtown-raised philanthropist and social reformer Robert Owen. 

There will also be inflatables free of charge for children and face painting near the riverside venue.

Alan said: “It’s extremely fast. I’m not known for giving people the kindest routes because Welshpool and Oswestry 10Ks are very challenging. It’s lovely to be able to say come to Newtown and it’s really flat and actually really beautiful.

"It’s stunning. I think people will be blown away by it. I don’t think people will expect to see or feel this. The route is scenic, beautiful, and extremely fast. It’s PB territory.

“We would love to see the course filled with residents. If you’re not in a rush to go anywhere come out and give them a clap and a cheer for 10 minutes. The impact that will have will be really high. Runners put themselves through quite a bit of pain so any support on the route will be really welcome.”

People who are looking to get their best 10K time and have around an hour spare on Sunday morning can still sign up online for up to £23.49 at https://www.adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk/newtown-10k-run/