Race for Life

Race for Life is a series of fundraising events run by Cancer Research UK, with 3k, 5k and 10k distances alongside Pretty Muddy obstacle events and Pretty Muddy Kids. The standard events are designed to be fun and welcoming; people can walk, jog or run at their own pace. If you’re mainly looking for the classic distance, you can also browse other 5k runs.

Race for Life Pretty Muddy is the obstacle-course version of Race for Life, rather than a standard road or park run. The course distance is 5k and includes muddy obstacles to crawl or slide through that you can tackle at your own pace. If the obstacle element is what appeals to you, there are more events to compare on our obstacle races page. The main Pretty Muddy event is for participants aged 13 and over. Pretty Muddy Kids caters for children aged 6 to 12, as long as they’re over 1.2m tall.

Race for Life is designed for a broad range of ages and fitness levels, including total beginners. There’s no pressure to run the whole course - walkers are welcome - and you don’t have to meet a particular standard before entering. That’s why the shorter distances are so well suited to people who are new to organised events. If you’d like to see other relaxed, accessible events, have a look at our fun runs.

People of all ages can take part in the standard Race for Life 3k, 5k and 10k events, although under-16s need to be accompanied by an adult. Pretty Muddy has slightly different rules. The main event is for ages 13 and over, and Pretty Muddy Kids is for children aged 6 to 12 who are also over 1.2m tall. If you have children under six, you can bring them with you at a 3k, 5k or 10k without paying an entry fee, but they don’t count as registered participants.

Entry fees vary by distance and age, but they’re generally affordable, ranging from around £15 to £25. Child prices are lower, and under-sixes can accompany an adult free at standard 3k, 5k and 10k events without being registered themselves. Cancer Research UK sometimes runs promotional offers that allow you to enter for less; it’s worth checking the event you want to do before entering. There’s a suggested £50 fundraising target, but don’t worry if you don’t quite meet it - you can still take part.

Race for Life isn’t one of those events where people are focused on achieving a new PB. There’s no pressure to finish within a certain time, which is great news if you’re planning to talk or take breaks. 10k events do tend to be chip timed, but that’s more about recording your result rather than making it competitive.

Race for Life events are closely associated with the colour pink, but there’s no dress code for them. It’s best to prioritise comfortable clothes and trainers without worrying about matching a colour scheme. Don’t forget to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty if you’re taking part in a Pretty Muddy event - it’s worth bringing a change of clothes and a towel for afterwards, too.

Some Race for Life events allow you to bring your four-legged friend, but the rule varies. Make sure you check the facilities information for your race before bringing them, and don’t forget to bring water to keep them hydrated on the day, especially if it’s warm.

Pretty Muddy entrants are awarded with a medal when they cross the finish line, but it’s worth remembering that any under-sixes who come along without being registered won’t receive a race number or medal.

Don’t worry if you haven’t received your pack; it doesn’t mean you’ve lost your place. If you don’t have your race number when you arrive, head to the enquiries tent for a replacement. 10k participants collect their number on the day anyway, so you should allow extra time before the start.