From Marie Watson…
Keighley 10K – Mother’s Day Miles
Today’s Keighley 10K, held on Mother’s Day (15th March), felt like one of those races that means a little more than just the time on the clock.
I first ran this race in 2024 on the first Mother’s Day after losing my mum. That one was emotional, but also slightly ridiculous. I ran it dressed as a giant star, in the wrong trainers, sliding around a muddy field with limited visibility. It was chaotic, muddy, and strangely perfect for the day.
What I remember most from that race, though, wasn’t the mud. It was the atmosphere. This race supports Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, and you can feel that purpose on the start line. Many runners are there with their own stories: running in memory, in gratitude, or simply to support the hospice.
This year I returned to the start line with the same sense of reflection, but with a slightly different outfit choice: Doc McStuffins. When a day carries a bit of emotional weight, a bit of fancy dress can help keep things light.
The course itself was just as I remembered—undulating and honest, with plenty of local support along the way. One big change from last year: the infamous muddy field has gone, replaced with a longer stretch along the canal. Less sliding, more steady running which helped as I had one hand steadying the giant foam cartoon head on my head!
Running events like this always remind me that races aren’t just about pace or position. They’re about people. The conversations before the start, the cheers from spectators, and the quiet understanding among runners who are there for reasons bigger than the race itself.
Grief doesn’t disappear with time, but days like today show that joy and sadness can exist side by side.
So today’s miles were for Mum.
For everyone missing someone on Mother’s Day.
And for the incredible work of Manorlands.
Also… possibly the only race today with a cartoon doctor on the course.
Marie Watson: 57:37