Halifax buildings become racecourse in quirky urban trail debut
Forget muddy fields and windswept moors – running in West Yorkshire is getting a decidedly urban twist this Easter. Halifax is set to host its inaugural Urban Trail race, transforming historic buildings and city streets into a 10km course unlike anything seen in the UK.
Inspired by a breton holiday, a novel race is born
The brainchild of race director Andrew Bibby, the concept arose from a chance encounter during a holiday in Fougères, France. “It was a real spectacle,” Bibby recalls, describing a similar event where runners navigated ramparts, theatres, and even classrooms within the town’s ancient structures. “The atmosphere was electric; everyone was out celebrating. I thought, ‘Halifax has some incredible buildings too – why not try this here?’”
And so, after 18 months of planning and securing permissions from building owners, 500 runners are poised to dash through Halifax landmarks on Easter Monday. The route will weave past the iconic Piece Hall, the town’s minster, the bustling market, the imposing town hall, and the Dean Clough art gallery, offering participants – and spectators – a unique glimpse into the town’s architectural heritage.
A community embraces a new tradition
What’s perhaps most surprising is the overwhelming enthusiasm from the building managers themselves. Nicky Chance-Tompson, Chief Executive of the Piece Hall, explains, “We loved the idea immediately. The Piece Hall is all about celebrating Halifax’s heritage and community spirit, and this race felt like a perfect fit.” Even the Rev Canon Hilary Barber, vicar of Halifax, sees it as an opportunity to showcase the town’s inclusivity, stating, “It’s a real honour to be part of this innovative way of celebrating the town and welcoming the community.”
Among the entrants is 80-year-old Kay Pierce, a seasoned runner who, after hearing about the race, declared it a “crazy, great idea.” She'll be joined by friends, eager to enjoy a morning unlike any they’ve experienced before. While many runners hail from Leeds and surrounding areas of West Yorkshire, others are travelling from as far afield as Cardiff and Somerset, drawn by the novelty of the event.
But Bibby’s ambition extends beyond just providing a fun race. “We wanted to showcase what Halifax has to offer,” he explains. “Many people, especially those outside of Yorkshire, might think of Halifax as just an industrial town. It’s a beautiful place, full of fantastic architecture, and I think people will be genuinely surprised – even those who live here.” The race promises not only a memorable experience for the runners but also a welcome boost to the local economy and some much-needed positive publicity for the town.
The Halifax Urban Trail isn't just a race; it’s a testament to a community’s willingness to embrace the unexpected, revealing a hidden charm often overlooked. And judging by the enthusiastic reception, it’s a charm that’s ready to be discovered.