Potters 'Arf 2024 route change as Heartbreak Hill remains
The Potters 'Arf route has changed for 2024 – sparking a debate among runners. The new organisers of the Hanley Economic Potters 'Arf have scrapped the start from the traditional spot under the bridge over Potteries Way and moved it to Tontine Street, in Hanley.
To make up the mileage shortfall, 'scenic' Central Forest Park has also been added as part of the end of the 13.1-mile race. However, the vast majority of the route is the same, meaning runners will still have to haul their way up big hills on Anchor Road, in Longton, and Milton Road in Sneyd Green, known as Heartbreak Hill.
The decision comes after the race – traditionally run on the second weekend in June – was moved this year to Sunday, September 29.
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It is being organised by HS Sports and Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All for the first time after Stoke-on-Trent City Council put the race organisation out to tender.
Organisers revealed in a social media post: “No more starting on Potteries Way and uphill for the first mile. Now we’re starting on Tontine Street in the city centre, and running straight out before a steady downhill on Lichfield Street. Then… on the way back in, after Heartbreak Hill (sorry… yes, we kept that), we’re taking a nice scenic route through Hanley Central Forest Park.”
Runners have been quick to give their views - with some offering more support than others.
One claimed on social media that ‘changing the very tough uphill start has changed it significantly’, while another said it was ‘a disaster waiting to happen having that many people negotiating the park’.
Organisers have not revealed the reason for the changes.
Runner Vanessa Milward, from Go Team running club, said the changes were positive.
Vanessa, from Hanford, said: “It’s great to hear that the organisers are trying their best to attract new generations and tourist runners by changing up the route and acting on feedback about the time of year the ’Arf takes place. Local runners do seem keener to keep to the well-trodden ways. However, a broader mindset and reserving judgement until after the full experience could well stand the race in good stead for the future.”
Eric Talbot, from Westbury Park, added: “In my opinion the changes must not compromise the safety of the runners. If the changes to the start enable better access to facilities for the runners, such as toilets immediately before the race, this will be a change for the better. It’s good to see that the majority of the race and its iconic landmarks are not affected, and I’m sure that the runners will experience and appreciate the amazing support around the course.”
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