ATW Colchester Friday Night Runs

Essex County Championships & Comms Express Elite Races
Join us for an evening of competitive racing at the Essex 5K County Championships. The event kicks off on Friday at 5:30pm with a family-friendly 1-mile fun run, perfect for encouraging young runners and cheering on friends.
The main attraction begins promptly at 6:00pm with the first of several timed 5K races designed to accommodate athletes of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned competitors. The evening's highlight features two elite-level events: a women’s race starting at 8:30pm for runners under 20 minutes and a men’s event beginning at 9:00pm for those who can complete the course in less than 16 minutes.
The races are held on an ideal, traffic-free tarmac circuit that offers no sharp turns or elevation changes. This creates a level playing field where every runner has the chance to achieve their personal best time. The chip-timed results will be merged into Essex County Championship standings across various age categories and team competitions for both men and women.
To qualify for the Essex Championships, participants must meet specific criteria including being either born in or having lived in Essex for at least nine months prior to the race year (September 1st - August 31st). They also need to represent an eligible club with their official vest and provide a valid UK Athletics number upon registration.
The event is not just about competition; it’s also a celebration of community spirit. Attendees are encouraged to raise funds for Alzheimer's Research UK, turning each stride into support for vital research efforts. Opportunities to donate will be available at the race venue.
For those looking to participate in future events or transfer their entry due to unforeseen circumstances, ATW offers flexible options up until 48 hours before your scheduled event date. This ensures that no runner misses out on a chance to compete and celebrate their achievements with like-minded individuals.
Whether you're chasing glory as part of the Essex County Championships or simply looking for a safe space to push yourself in a supportive environment, this race offers something special for everyone involved.
Join us at ATW events where we foster dreams, believe in your potential, and help turn aspirations into reality.