A potato producer is once again looking to put a little fun into this year’s harvest by running the 5th annual potato race in Ely – and are appealing for teams to take part.
Isle of Ely Produce, of Littleport, is gearing up for the relay race which will see teams race from up and down the High Street in October. It is a race all local farmers want to win.
Each competitor will be required to run the race with a 20kg bag of potatoes on his or her back.
The two-man team from the Cambridge Ambulance Service, were crowned worthy champions in 2016, powering away from runners-up the Atrium Gym in the dash to the line. The Sylhet Restaurant Ely came third. Dawn Lamb Fitness won the ladies race.
Also running in 2016 was Widow Twankey from KD Theatre’s panto Aladdin.
The winning team was racing with potatoes from farmers D Palmer and Sons.
All competitors get to keep their potatoes as part of their entry fee.
The main race will be run at a fast and furious rate on Saturday, October 14, at 11am. It is organised by Isle of Ely Produce who use it to showcase more than 20 different local potato farmers. It coincides with the harvest festival which starts in the city on the same day.
They have since added a schools and ladies race to the day as the spectacle grows.
It is hoped to eclipse the £3,000 raised last year for local schools & charities.
Oliver Boutwood, Director of Isle of Ely Produce, said: “Last year’s race was amazing, more than 1,000 people lined the streets, and helped us raise over £3,000, and help 10 local charities.
“The race fits nicely with our campaign which highlights the journey the potato makes from field to frier.”
If you would like to enter a team of two for the mens or ladies race please email Austen at austen@isleofely.co.uk, it is £10 per team and places are very limited.
