When Mitchell Hawthorn watched a friend cross the finish line of the Edinburgh Marathon back in 2022, something clicked – and he decided to give running a go too, starting with the Worcester City Runs 10K.
Fast forward to today, and Mitchell is gearing up for his fourth Worcester City Runs 10K. Not only that, this year he’s one of our 2025 event ambassadors.
By day, Mitchell works as the Corporate GIS and Systems Officer at Worcester City Council. But outside the office? You’ll most likely find him in his trainers, clocking up miles along the canals, through parks or at his local parkrun.
For Mitchell, running quickly went from curiosity to passion. The Worcester City Runs 10K was his first ever race – it remains one of his favourite events on the calendar and he keeps coming back for more!
“It’s a really flat and scenic route, and a great way to take in some of Worcester’s best views,” he says. “There’s something about running through your own city with thousands of others that’s hard to beat.”
Since that first outing, Mitchell has joined Droitwich Athletics Club, expanded his training routes, and sees running as the perfect way to explore the local area.
“Running has really helped me explore the area I live in. You get to see your hometown from a whole new perspective,” he says.
But since that first race at Worcester, running has taken him abroad too – he even ticked off a parkrun in Krakow (with bonus Easter chocolate at the finish)!
Now, he’s working with Worcester Physiotherapy Clinic to build strength and avoid injury – all while keeping active with weekly parkruns. With a personal best of 49:29, Mitchell’s aiming to dip under 47:30 this September.
Mitchell’s 10K tips
If you’ve got the Worcester City 10K in your sights too, Mitchell has some words of wisdom to share:
- Start slow and build up. “Train up to 8K and let the race day atmosphere pull you through the last 2K.”
- Don’t worry about what you look like. “Everyone is focused on their own race. I really admire the people who run in fancy dress!”
- Embrace the feel-good factor. “Running gives you a buzz like nothing else. I love parkruns and try to do one wherever I go, even on holiday.”
Mitchell has already completed three Worcester City Runs and he sums up what the event is all about – a supportive community, big goals and an epic atmosphere!
If Mitchell’s story is making you want to join him on the start line on the weekend of 13-14 September, there’s still time to enter – and plenty of time to prepare. Check out our no-fuss how to go from 5K to 10K guide if you need a hand.
Register now at worcestercityrun.com
