Taking in the scenes at Race HQ and the start line, you can see this belief in action; a community full of smiles and out in force to support each other, race together and help raise funds for their community, together; it’s an extraordinary thing to behold. But, The Sports Trust was in no way the only recipient of this year’s race which, through individual fundraising efforts and close ties to the Folkestone Rotary Club, supports other charitable organisations in the community.

The race attracts both club runners, professional athletes and fun runners. As always, they were cheered across the finish line by enthusiastic crowds and rewarded with a bespoke medal and some unique and thoughtful goodies and tote bag – a rather lovely race detail that this event is famed for. There were also cash prizes for the leading male and female, generously sponsored by SAGA and adding a finishing flourish to the race day vibes.

This year, The Folkestone Coastal 10k garnered some truly astonishing results including a new course record; Charlie Brisley of Newham & Essex Beagles AC crossed the finish line in a blistering 00:29:50 to take home first male beating the course record (31:02 – also broken by Charlie!) whilst Catherine Kandie of Kent AC took first female in just 00:37:56. Whilst we look forward to seeing both Charlie and Catherine defend their wins next year, it has to be said that every single runner that stormed the finish line ran a magnificent race and gave their all. Whilst the heatwave was slightly more forgiving than in previous days, it was still incredibly warm conditions and every one that took part put in a truly inspiring performance.

Of course, the race would not be complete without the support it receives from it’s sponsors and community. Once again, the Police Cadets were out in force and this year saw SAGA return as headline sponsors, whilst a clutch of other wonderful, community orientated organisations helped to ensure that this race returned, bolder and brighter than ever before. Our thanks goes out not only to SAGA, but Church & Dwight, The Roger De Haam Charitable Trust, Holiday Extras, Oak, Jenner, Pod+, Motis Estates, KAP, Voco Clifton, Eurotunnel, Prainer Raines, The Cliffe Bar & Kitchen, Livingstone Homes, Folkestone College, Martello Consultancy, Folkestone Care Centre, Folkestone & Hythe District Council, McDonalds and The Burlington Hotel.

When The Folkestone Coastal 10k first took place in the Olympic Year of 2012 it was designed to capture the London Marathon experience and bring it to Folkestone. Above all, it was crafted to encourage runners of all abilities to participate, raise funds for local causes, encourage visitors to Folkestone, promote good health and celebrate a vibrant community. 2026 has been an epic year for The Folkestone Coastal 10k… and we look forward to seeing what 2027 will bring. Who’ll be joining us?

In addition, we had two SAGA cruise ships enjoying the virtual option with a record 320 participants, both crew and guests were raising funds for good causes.

Next year’s race will return on Sunday 30th May 2027 and we have already received a few entries!!