The Boxing Day Run, a non-competitive fun run that takes place in Felthorpe, first started in 2002 with only a few participants. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity and has seen hundreds of participants. However, due to Covid, the number of participants has decreased. Many long-term participants have given up running or decided that getting wet and cold during the Christmas festivities is no longer for them. Despite this, the run remains a fun and crazy event, with teams of runners in fancy dress and covered in mud as they follow a marked trail.
The Boxing Day Run also serves as a fundraiser for various charities, with thousands of pounds being raised over the years. Notable sports stars and personalities, ranging from boxing to cricket to speedway, have participated in the event. The event’s founder, Neil Featherby, has had a change of heart about continuing the event due to the requests of long-term participants and friends. One of the original participants, who brought the fancy dress element to the event, is eager to participate again, even though he now suffers from Parkinson’s Disease.
The idea for the Felthorpe Hare & Hounds Run originated during a run on Boxing Day in 2001 when the founder was reminded of a fox that had been shot in Felthorpe the previous year. Devoted to animal and fox rescue, the founder was inspired to navigate a muddy bog and leave the other runners in pursuit of him, likening himself to a fox and his pursuers to hounds. This experience became the catalyst for the following year’s run, which has been a beloved tradition ever since. The 22nd running of the event is dedicated to the memory of Mr. Felthorpe Fox and a supportive village resident. The event is open to anyone who wants to have fun, get wet and muddy, and raise awareness for designated causes. Although the event is non-competitive, there is an award for the best-dressed team. For more information, interested individuals can contact Neil Featherby via email.
