Boston was brought to life on Sunday as thousands of runners and spectators gathered for the 2026 Boston Running Festival, with a day of sport, community spirit and celebration rounding off another successful year for the popular event.
Despite blustery conditions throughout the day, spirits remained high across all four races, with participants of all abilities taking to the streets. The event once again showcased Boston at its very best, drawing visitors from across the region and beyond.
Race Director Kay Bonnell praised the efforts of everyone involved, particularly the volunteer team who made the day possible.
In a heartfelt message shared after the event, she said: “Wow wow wow! Thank you all so much for joining us for an amazing but windy day! We have had so many positive comments which mean so much, we are a committee of volunteers, so hearing this really makes your soul feel good.
“Thank you so much to all volunteers on course, we couldn’t do it without you, you guys are amazing.”
She added that while the team were “falling asleep in front of the TV” after an early start and a long day, they were incredibly proud of what had been achieved, with more updates, photos and prize winner announcements to follow in the coming days.
All races finished at Boston College, which served as the main event hub. A lively Runners Village and Trade Village created a festival atmosphere at the finish line, with a strong line-up of local traders including Nik ‘n’ Mix, Over The Moon Bars, Lincs Runners, Nuda Nutrition, Pig and Pastry, Gourmazin, Really Awesome Coffee and Frisky Fudge.
Runners were also able to take advantage of free post-race massages from HS Health Group physiotherapists, helping them recover after completing their races.
One of the standout moments of the day came as Bill and Pauline Howes completed their remarkable 700th marathon each, choosing Boston for the milestone, a moment organisers described as an honour to host.
The event attracted strong support from sponsors including Boston Seeds, Boston College, 107 Endeavour FM, Central Cars, Lincolnshire Motorhomes and Caravans, HS Physiotherapy, Alarmline Security, Boston Transport Training and McCartney Foodservice.
Local MP Richard Tice was also in attendance, greeting the top three finishers in both the full and half marathon categories.
In a statement, he said: “It was fantastic to see so many people taking part in this year’s Boston Running Festival. Events like this bring real energy into the town and showcase the strength of our community.
“I would like to wish all competitors my congratulations on their achievements and thank the organisers, volunteers and sponsors for creating such a successful and vibrant day for Boston.”
Race Results
Full Marathon – Male
1st: David Webster – 2:34:10
2nd: Mohamed Abdil – 2:37:17
3rd: Conor Culham – 2:37:22
Full Marathon – Female
1st: Lizzie Keep – 2:54:22
2nd: Katie Latham – 2:55:42
3rd: Elizabeth Joyce – 2:56:05
Half Marathon – Male
1st: Joe Crutchley – 1:10:53
2nd: David Morris – 1:14:08
3rd: Joe Oakden – 1:14:19
Half Marathon – Female
1st: Kirsten van Dorp – 1:26:21
2nd: Hannah Thomas – 1:28:15
3rd: Mairi Littleson – 1:28:38
With overwhelmingly positive feedback already pouring in, organisers have confirmed that planning is already underway for 2027, which will mark a special milestone year for the event.
For now, though, Boston can reflect on a windy, but hugely successful, day that once again put the town firmly on the running map.
