Callum calls on runners to get on their marks for Paisley 10k

Scotland’s Callum Hawkins has urged runners to get on their marks as entries open for this year’s Paisley 10k. The event, which takes place on Sunday, 20^th August 2023, includes a 10k road race, as well as a fun run for adults and children it also attracts experienced club and international athletes.

Callum is a double Olympics marathon runner having competed in the 2016 Olympics in Brazil and in Japan in 2021. He is the Scottish record holder and the British all-time number three at that distance behind Mo Farah and Steve Jones.

Callum, 30, said: “The Paisley 10k is a great event and one of the best 10ks in Scotland and I always try to compete here when my schedule allows.”

Callum won last year’s race, beating his older brother, Derek. He added: “It was good to have a battle with my brother, he wouldn’t leave me alone, as much as I tried, but it was nice to come out on top.”

Callum from Elderslie, was joined in Paisley Town Centre, by a group of young athletes from Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club, where they all train. The middle distance runners warming up for the race included, Lewis Hannigan, 19, from Paisley, Amy Teasdale, 16, from Kilmacolm, Oliver Patton, 16, from Quarriers Village and Zara Redmond, 15, from Houston.

 He added: “These guys are the future and the Paisley 10k is a great place for younger athletes to test themselves.

“However, it’s not just for serious athletes, the Paisley 10k is a great way to help anyone to get fit and active and set a target for themselves. “Everyone can take part and just come along and have fun on the day – and I would encourage everyone to do so.”

The Paisley 10k is still seen as Scotland’s third biggest road race. Those signing up for the event can enjoy an early bird discount until 16 June 2023 with online entries closing on Friday 18^th August at 12.00pm, as no entries are available on race day. The event is expected to attract more than 3,000 people running, jogging around the streets of Paisley in the road race and fun run. The event is supported by Renfrewshire Council and sponsored by Kilbarchan AAC.

There is more than £2000 in prize money up for grabs in the 10K race and trophies for both boys and girl’s fun runners who are aged under seven, eight to 11 year old and 12 to 15 year old.

Jim Blythe, Regional Sports Co-ordinator at OneRen: “It’s great to be back with one of the year’s biggest outdoor events in Renfrewshire.

“Whether you’re a serious distance runner or someone who just wants to run for fun, Paisley 10k provides an amazing day out for all of the family.

“You can test yourself for a good time on the road, or jog through the sites of Paisley in the Fun Run and simply soak up the atmosphere with the crowds cheering everyone on.”

“At OneRen we’re committed to providing opportunities for everyone to improve their health and wellbeing by getting more fit and physically active and the Paisley 10k is a great way to achieve this.”