The Round Norfolk Relay
A True Test of Endurance
Last week we were proud to support the North Norfolk Beach Runners as they took on one of the county’s toughest challenges: the legendary Round Norfolk Relay.
The Round Norfolk Relay – A Race Like No Other
The Round Norfolk Relay is one of the UK’s most distinctive endurance events, tracing the county boundary in a breathtaking 200-mile circuit. Split into 17 stages of varying distances, it offers a showcase of everything that makes Norfolk remarkable: vast skies, sweeping beaches, winding coastal paths, medieval churches, and picturesque villages.
The journey begins at Lynnsport in King’s Lynn, with runners heading towards Hunstanton before tackling the rugged Norfolk Coastal Path all the way to Cromer. From there, the route transitions onto roads, passing iconic landmarks such as Horsey Mill and Belton.
As darkness falls, the race intensifies with its longest single section — a gruelling 62 miles through the heart of Breckland. Entirely run at night, this is often the decisive point where races are won or lost. When dawn breaks, the course leads runners through the misty Fens, before following the Great Ouse River back into King’s Lynn, finishing where it all began at Lynnsport.
More than a relay, this event is a supreme test of endurance, teamwork, and careful organisation. Run continuously over 24 hours, it demands meticulous planning, strong support crews, and unwavering determination. A staggered start system allows teams of all abilities to compete side by side, with faster runners chasing those ahead — ensuring an electrifying race dynamic throughout.
For every participant, the Round Norfolk Relay is not just a competition, but an unforgettable experience and an achievement to treasure.
Running for a Greater Cause
While the Relay celebrates speed, resilience, and team spirit, its heart lies in fundraising for a vital cause — the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).
In 2024, the EAAA team completed the course in an impressive 25 hours and 58 minutes, securing 25th place out of 60 teams. This year, they return with a bold fundraising goal of £4,250 for 2025, ensuring the Air Ambulance can continue delivering life-saving care across our county.
Subaru Support on the Road
To ensure the runners had the support they needed, friend of Crayford & Abbs Clive Hedges and his team were tasked with shadowing the North Norfolk Beach Runners in a Subaru Outback, providing on-road assistance throughout the 24-hour challenge.
After completing the event, Clive shared his experience:
“Once again, Crayford & Abbs kindly provided a vehicle for the North Norfolk Beach Runners in the 2025 Round Norfolk Relay — this time, a Subaru Outback. I had never driven a Subaru before, but from the moment I sat inside I was impressed. The build quality is superb, the finish excellent, and the smoothness and power of the engine outstanding. It was effortless through the six-speed automatic gearbox and remarkably quiet too. The 4x4 capability also proved invaluable on several stretches of the Relay. Thanks to the team at Crayford & Abbs for allowing us the use of this superb car.”
Looking Ahead
The Round Norfolk Relay remains one of the most demanding yet rewarding events on the running calendar, bringing together athletes, volunteers, and communities in a celebration of endurance and spirit.
We’re proud to have played a small part in supporting this incredible race and the North Norfolk Beach Runners — and we look forward to cheering them on again next year.
👉 If you’d like to show your support, you can donate directly to the East Anglian Air Ambulance and help them reach their 2025 fundraising goal here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/rnr-eaaa2025
Credit to Dreampace for the photography.