History | ashby20

ALDI Ashby 20 - history

The Ashby 20 was founded in 1988, when a group of passionate members from Ivanhoe Runners believed the club could host a 20-mile race. From that vision came:

"The ALDI Ashby 20 - a race organised by runners, for runners"

The initial organising group was formed by a small group of members, including Paul Enion, Bob White, Peter Brown, Dave Mann and Kevin Sanders, and they shared the race responsibilities among them. Unlike today where Ivanhoe Runners have a separate race committee of over 20 people, who under the direction of Race Director Richard Bebbington work all year to put on the race.

The inaugural Ashby 20 took place on 2nd April 1989, starting from Hood Park Leisure Centre, heading north from Ashby on a one-lap route. Over 400 runners completed the race, with Trevor Hawes winning in 1.52.46, and Sandra Lappage finishing as the first lady in 2.10.48.

The race continued on that route until 2001, when the race was sadly cancelled due to the foot-and-mouth outbreak, and by the time the 2002 race came around the new Ashby bypass meant moving to a new two lap route to the South of Ashby. Since 2015 the route has seen a partial road closure to increase the safety of the event, allowing a field of circa 1500 athletes.

The race has been cancelled on two other occasions, 2018 (Mini Beast from the East) and 2020 (Covid-19). The very first virtual Ashby 20 took place in 2021, as a result of Covid-19 restrictions.

The current course records stand as:

Men's Record: Gareth Raven - 1.44.17 (2005)
Women's Record: Diane Lobacevske 2.02.40 (2009)

The race continues to attract runners from across the UK and beyond, earning a reputation as one of the best 20-mile races in the country. In 2017, the race was honoured with the Bill Reynolds trophy for excellence.

Since 2006 the main sponsor has been Aldi, and their support has been tremendous. Many other organisations also make the event possible, including Leicestershire Search and Rescue, Ashby Endurance Explorer Scouts, the Rotary Club of Ashby Castle, Ashby Town Council, North West Leicestershire District Council, Derby Runner, Conkers parkrun. The day itself requires nearly 250 volunteers to stage – a mammoth undertaking!

The race enjoys a long prize list, including the Paul Enion Prize, awarded in memory of one of the races founders, who was sadly killed training in 1992. This is for a local male and female finisher drawn randomly, and again very kindly donated by EveryOne Active.

The event has become a prominent community event for the area – the support of local villages, residents and businesses, along with Leicestershire Search & Rescue, Ashby Castle Rotary, and Explorer Scouts on race day is vital and appreciated.

Along with being a serious 20-mile race it also raises money for local and national charities – which include Wishes 4 Kids, Bright Hope House and Teenage Cancer Trust.

In addition local businesses such as hotels, cafes, pubs and shops benefit from the 1500 plus people coming into the area on race day. So it’s a win-win for everyone!