Established in 1992
About us
Learn more about the history of the Hook Fun Run & Road Races, including the first race and how the event has grown over the years.
A Bit of History
Two of the governors, namely John Lambert and Graham Kingsbury, were asked to set up a working party to look at how this landmark achievement could be celebrated. They explored several ideas, all of which revolved around the central theme of involving the village. One of the events they considered was some sort of village Fun Run.
As luck would have it, another working party was also in action at this time, looking at ways for St John’s Church to raise money for the extension to the new parish room. This group was headed by Bob Ashwood, who had also had the idea of staging a Fun Run. Very quickly the two groups came together, and the Hook Fun Run was born, with Bob Ashwood as founding chairman.
The First Race
By 1996 the event had expanded to take in a 10 mile road race, 5 mile road race and 2.5 mile fun run. In 2006, the 5 mile road race was replaced with a 6 mile race and a second 2.5 mile run was added.
In 2014, the event passed a major fundraising milestone when the total donations passed the £100,000 mark. At that time, electronic chip timing was introduced. 2015 was another milestone with over 1,000 finishers for the first time.
2016 saw a major re-organisation of the event. The Hook Schools site was no longer available due to building work and expansion. The event moved to a new home at Hartlett’s Park. At that time, the Hook 10k was introduced, replacing the 6 mile race. A new 10 mile course was also created, alongside the ever-popular Fun Run.
From small beginnings, the Hook Fun Run has expanded to nearly four times its original size. The Hook Fun Run & Road Races now raises thousands of pounds every year for local charities and good causes.
Who has benefitted
Our Community Impact
The Hook Fun Run & Road Races is an entirely non-profit making event. We are hugely grateful to all our sponsors; their generous donations help contribute to some of our running costs which allows more money from the entry fees and other revenues to benefit local charities and community organisations in the Hook area. Many of these groups are small groups that are often overlooked, and we are very proud to be able to support them with our donations.
Well over £143,500 has been raised in the 34 years that the event has been held. This has allowed us to donate to many local groups that have included:
Register an interest
If you are involved with a local charity or similar organisation and would like to register an interest in receiving a donation from the Hook Fun Run & Road Races, please email team@hookfunrun.com. All applications are carefully considered, and funds are distributed later in the summer.
The closing date for donation requests is 31st July 2026.
Our Community
Impact
Years
We have been running over 34 years and the community spirit gets better every year
£ Raised
With the help of our sponsors, the money raised goes directly back into the community
Local Groups helped
We have helped so many local small groups and organisations that are often overlooked
How you can make a difference
We Need You
Join Our Volunteers
You don’t have to be a runner to take part, why not help out on the day.
Join our Sponsors
Be part of something special and gain visibility whilst supporting the local community.
Join the Committee
Get involved with our friendly and dedicated team to drive the event forward and celebrate our community.