This year’s Paisley 10k and 3k Fun Run saw a record-breaking number of participants take to the streets, with over 4,500 people joining in the festivities. The event, organised by OneRen and supported by Renfrewshire Council and Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club, has become one of Scotland’s premier road races, ranking as the third-largest in the country.
With so many runners this year I’m not even going to attempt to edit or sort any of the photos all 5,410 !! of them but have separated them into 10K and fun run batches.
10K photos link CLICK HERE
Fun run photos CLICK HERE
A Thrilling Race Day
In a testament to the event’s growing popularity, the 2024 Paisley 10k attracted 3,953 participants, while 1,602 took part in the 3k Fun Run. This year’s total of 4,555 runners marks a significant increase of 1,000 from last year. Thousands of cheering spectators lined the streets of Paisley, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere for the runners as they wound their way through the town, enjoying clear skies and iconic local landmarks.
A Star-Studded Start
Former Olympic distance runner and local track hero, Derek Hawkins, had the honor of starting the race. Having won the Paisley 10k himself in 2012, Hawkins was thrilled to see the event’s growth. “The Paisley 10k is one of the biggest in Scotland,” he said. “It’s truly inspirational and an amazing atmosphere. The most important thing is to get some enjoyment from it, whatever goal you are trying to achieve – and so many are making that happen today.”
Fierce Competition in the Men’s and Women’s Races
The competition in the 10k race was fierce. In the men’s race, Jamie Burns of Shettleston Harriers clinched the top spot with an impressive time of 30 minutes and 13 seconds. Scott Stirling of Falkirk Victoria Harriers was hot on his heels, finishing just nine seconds behind at 30 minutes and 22 seconds, followed closely by Seyd Taha Ghafari of Shettleston Harriers, with a time of 30 minutes and 26 seconds.
On the women’s side, Nynke Mulholland of Inverclyde Athletics Club took first place, crossing the finish line in 35 minutes and 39 seconds. This victory was especially sweet for Nynke, who had finished second in last year’s race. “It’s an amazing course, and there’s always sights to look at,” she said, reflecting on her win despite the challenges posed by the windy conditions. “I knew I was holding it together and in with a chance of the win.”
Rosa Donaldson of Bellahouston Harriers secured second place in the women’s race, with a time of 36 minutes and 29 seconds, followed closely by Sarah Dempsey of Kilbarchan Amateur Athletics Club, who finished third with a time of 36 minutes and 41 seconds.
Running for a Cause
While elite athletes battled it out for top honours, many fun runners participated with equally important goals – raising money for charities, local sports clubs, and good causes. Among the participants was Dr. Julie McElroy, who uses a frame to assist her running. Julie’s inspirational journey has seen her use the Paisley 10k as a platform to race in the London Marathon. Her participation, alongside fellow members of Victoria Park Athletic Club, highlights the event’s inclusive and community-oriented nature. “Seven years ago, I had my independence and physical agility taken away from me after a traumatic accident,” Julie shared. “Joining my local running club has been a game changer, and it’s amazing how far I’ve come.”
A Community Effort
Dr. Victoria Hollows, Chief Executive of OneRen, praised the event’s success and the dedication of everyone involved. “The Paisley 10k and Fun Run is one of Renfrewshire’s biggest outdoor participation events, and I’m delighted that more people than ever before have taken part,” she said. “It was fantastic to see so many runners of all ages and abilities taking part. I want to thank all of the OneRen staff, volunteers, and our partners, including Renfrewshire Council, Police Scotland, and Kilbarchan AAC, for coming together to make this event one of Scotland’s best 10k events.”
Looking Ahead
With each passing year, the Paisley 10k continues to grow in stature, attracting participants from across Scotland and beyond. Whether running for charity, personal goals, or the thrill of competition, the Paisley 10k offers something for everyone. And with record numbers this year, the future of the event looks brighter than ever.
As Derek Hawkins said, “It’s all about enjoying the race and celebrating the spirit of running.” For Paisley, the race is more than just an event—it’s a community celebration that brings people together, fosters health and fitness, and showcases the best of what the town has to offer.
Paisley Photographs 