Run it. Walk it. Do it with family. Do it with friends. Do it for someone you love. Every person who signs up makes this day stronger, more meaningful and more hopeful.
Be part of Ampthill vs Cancer 2026. Stand with us. Walk with us. Run with us. Help make a difference.
Last year, our community came together in a way none of us will ever forget. Families, friends, neighbours, strangers - all walking and running with one purpose. In that single day, we raised over £25,000 for three incredible local cancer charities. It was powerful. It was emotional. And it proved what happens when people stand together. So, we’re doing it again. Because cancer hasn’t stopped and neither can we.
Why this matters
Cancer will affect 1 in 2 of us in our lifetime. For many, it’s already here, in their home, in their family, in someone they love. Ampthill vs Cancer is our chance to rally together. To show support. To honour those we’ve lost. To walk for the people still fighting. To stand with those who feel scared, tired or alone. This day is about strength, solidarity and community, not about how fast you can run (well it might be for some!).
More than a 5K
Yes, there’s a 5K. But the day is so much more than that. It’s Ampthill Park filled with hope. It’s catching up, showing support and being part of something local and genuine. It’s a whole day dedicated to making things better, even in small steps. It’s kids running, music playing, food vans, drink, picnics and stalls. It’s bringing everyone together. It’s a simple way to make a difference.
What’s happening
- 5K run or walk - open to all abilities from age 11 upwards
- Golden Hare Mile for ages 7–12
- Mini Hare for age 6 and under (around the cricket pitch)
- Stalls, food, drink & live music throughout the day
- Picnic (you are welcome to bring your own alcohol) and space to pause, reflect and be together
Timings
- From 08:30 – Bib/number collections open (will stay open most of the day so kids can collect their numbers for the Golden Hare Mile and Mini Hare)
- 09:15 – Warm-up
- 10:00 – 5K (followed by awards)
- 12:00 – Golden Hare Mile (followed by awards)
- 14:00 – Mini Hare
Costs
- 5K, age 11 and over - £15
- Golden Hare Mile, ages 7 to 12 - £6
- Mini Hare, age 6 and under - free (please still register your little one)
Where your support goes
Our chosen charities this year are Keech Hospice and Move against Cancer (chosen by our community). We are also raising money for a community fund to help people directly in our community affected by cancer.
A few practical details for the day
Car Parking
If you live locally you are strongly advised to walk to the event. However, free parking is available in the West Car Park at Ampthill Park. If this fills up, free overspill parking will open at (in this order):
- Queensman FC (Lawrence Park)
- Ampthill Rugby Club
- Alameda Sports Hall
Other bits..
- 5K - all finishers will get a running t-shirt with medals for age group winners
- Golden Hare Mile and Mini Hare races - medals for all the kids
- Team event and the ‘Hill of Hope’ challenge in the 5K with awards
- Chip timing and live online results for the 5K and Golden Hare Mile
- Race bibs with integrated timing chips
- Clearly marked course with enthusiastic marshals throughout
- Medical support at the start, finish and on the course
- Early registration/number collection will be available from The Social (Coffee Shop) in Kings Arms Yard (off Church Street), Ampthill from 08:00 on Monday 22nd June to 16:00 on Saturday 27th June during normal opening hours (we strongly recommend this)
Please arrive in good time to collect your number (if not already done so) and warm up!
Good luck and thanks for the support.
Also check out other Sports events in Bedford, Nonprofit events in Bedford, Kids events & activities in Bedford.
