With less than a month to go until hundreds of runners hit the roads for the Killer Mile, organisers are urging potential history-makers to step up and participate in the uphill challenge. 

This year's event, whose website is here killermile.com features an enhanced cash prize fund totalling £2,000 for the Elite Race.

A £1,000 reward is set aside for any runner who can break the long-standing course records—currently held by Bashir Hussain since 1991 at 6:12 and Shireen Barbour since 1992 at 7:54. These records have remained unchallenged for over 30 years! 

For the first time, headline sponsor Chaffinch will match the Mow Cop Runners' £1,000 prize to honour the female record-breaking winner, celebrating exceptional female athletes in the community. 

Bashir Hussain - Stockport RC - Setting Record of 6:12 in 1991 (Photo: Killer Mile)

The race starts on Drumber Lane and ends at Mow Cop Castle Car Park. It includes a challenging ascent of 570 feet with steep sections at a 25% gradient, offering views of the surrounding countryside along the way. 

Runners can look forward to multiple categories, including the Junior Race, Fun Run (A and B), and the Elite Race. This year, every finisher across all races will receive a commemorative medal to recognise their hard work and dedication. 

Enhanced place prizes will be awarded in the Elite Race, sponsored by Running Bear. Winners will receive a £150 shoe voucher, premium sweatshirts or hoodies for second place, and premium socks for third. There will also be prizes for the first under-18 participants. 

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Trophies will be presented in various age categories within the Elite Race, and first finishers from the Fun Runs and Junior Race will also be celebrated.  

Every child in the Junior Race will receive goody bags, certificates, and medals, all sponsored by DJH, creating a memorable experience. 

New this year is a dedicated competition for schools. For every child who enters the Junior Race, their school will be entered into a prize draw for one of three £100 book tokens. Greater participation from each school will enhance their chance of winning. 

Continuing its tradition of giving back, the Killer Mile will donate race proceeds to three charities in the Mow Cop community: Greyhound Gap, St. Luke's Community Group, and Mow Cop Community Church. Mow Cop Runners will also receive a small donation to support their activities. 

Alastair Machin, CEO of headline sponsor Chaffinch, said: "This year, with our support, we aimed to make the event bigger and better than ever. I would like to thank all our sponsors, including Running Bear, Thirst Aid Bars and DJH, for their generosity.

"Their support has allowed us to increase the prize money and offer some exciting prizes. The men's and women's course records have stood for over 30 years, and we hope that 2025 will be the year when new records are set. Record breakers won't just make history at the Killer Mile; they'll also earn £1,000." 

Race organiser, Geoff Pettengell of Mow Cop Runners, added: "I have been fortunate enough to be involved with the race from the beginning, and each year I've wondered if this will be the year a new record is set.

"It would be fantastic if Bashir and Shireen's records could be broken. We have received tremendous interest this year, not only from participants but also from community members and sponsors, for which we are extremely grateful." 

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Participants are encouraged to be part of this historic event—the 37th in 44 years! Whether aiming for a record or enjoying a fun run, there's something for everyone.  

Spots can be secured by visiting killermile.com, but act quickly, as the event is limited to just 1,000 runners, and spaces are filling up fast. For further inquiries, contact [email protected]. 

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