Shakespeare competition
The Shakespeare Race league is our monthly race series which provides the opportunity for regular racing and is open to club members only (occasional exceptions can be made!). Races are held on Wednesday evenings. We aim for the first Wednesday of the month where possible.
Information is sent out via Spond a week or so in advance (date, venue, start time, route description and/or map if possible and parking arrangements if necessary). We need marshals as well as runners so those injured, unfit or not fancying a race can still be involved. We ask that everyone marshals at least one race. If you would like to organise an event, let me know and you will get points for your efforts!
The race format is geared to provide a fun event with the opportunity for food and socialising afterward. There will be 11 races in total, and you will need to do at least 7 to be counted in the Shakespeare championship. Your best 5 races will determine your overall position. Each race is split into three groups: race walkers, medium-paced group and fast-paced group. The three groups start off with 10min separation (usually 6.50pm, 7pm and 7.10pm) with the aim to have most racers back at the rave HQ for food etc by a similar time. Runners must wear their Stratford AC vests and will be instructed to wear hi-viz vests for the Spring and autumn races (due to reduced daylight).
There are separate league tables for men and women with prizes awarded for the top three in each league. Separately, there are age group leagues with a prize for the winner of each five-year age group. The first three overall are not eligible for age group prizes.
The finale of the series is the Club’s Awards Evening in November.
Coming into the New Year, the races start in Stratford (around town and on the track) and then head out into the surrounding villages as daylight allows. The series is a great way to get into racing, as well as an opportunity for some friendly competition and post-race banter!
The races cost £5 to enter, and food is an additional £3. Marshals to pay £3 for their food. Payment can be made on the night by cash or card (for which there is a small surcharge).
Please contact me on Spond if you have any questions.
Simon Penson, Race Director
2026 fixtures (dates subject to change)
| RACE | DATE | TYPE |
| 1: TBD | January 14th | 6 mile flat road race in Stratford |
| 2: TBD | February 4th | TBD |
| 3: TBD | March 4th | TBD |
| 4: TBD | April 1st | TBD |
| 5: TBD | May 6th | TBD |
| 6: TBD | June 3rd | WRRL Sphinx 5 TBC |
| 7: TBD | July 1st | TBD |
| 8: TBD | August 5th | TBD |
| 9: TBD | September 2nd | TBD |
| 10: TBD | September – date TBD | TBD |
| 11: TBD | October 7th | TBD |
Results
Past Results