Wonderland festival follows successful Sting Challenge

The Sting Challenge delivered fast times, colourful costumes and a fantastic atmosphere as 398 runners crossed the finish line at South Street Park in Caistor.

On a glorious, if slightly warm summer day, competitors tackled the approximately six-mile route featuring footpaths, roads, a scenic 3km off-road section and the testing hills of Caistor.

Rob Payne (Caistor RC) stormed to victory in a men's course record of 32:54, while Sylvia Parkinson (Lincoln Wellington AC) claimed the women's title in a course-record 40:43. Adding to the spectacle, many participants embraced the Alice in Wonderland theme with imaginative fancy dress, making it a memorable celebration of running and community spirit.

The Challenge’s president Mark Hodson also thanked the 70-plus volunteers, whose support made the event possible.

“All your help and support is massively appreciated by all the Sting Challenge Team.”

There was free ice cream for all finishers, and a free Sting Challenge vest too.

A fun family festival followed the event in the park – Caistor Goes to Wonderland.

Crowds were encouraged to stay around after the run to enjoy the free event. Free attractions and entertainment included fairground rides, bouncy castles, meet and greets with Alice (SJ Productions), face painting, a magician, live music and line dancers. The kitchen and bar was by Caistor and District Lions and food and craft stalls including Tuckers Ice Cream and the Choowee Company.

Sally Allison from Caistor Goes said: “The sun shone and many people attended from home and away. It was great to see everyone enjoying themselves. The hard work by Caistor Goes events committee paid off. Here’s to our next event, Proms in the Park.”