Trevithick 12K Preview – What to Expect at the New Cornish Grand Prix Opener
A new name, a new distance, but the same legendary start to Cornwall’s racing season — the Trevithick 12K is here to take the torch from the much-loved Storm Force 10. Organised by Carn Runners, this refreshed event pays homage to Camborne’s heritage while offering a scenic, challenging and fast early-season test.
January 2026 will mark the second running of this new-format race, and excitement is already building among runners across the county.
A Fresh Take on a Classic Race
The Trevithick 12K keeps the friendly, community-driven spirit that made Storm Force such a staple but introduces a slightly shorter 7.45-mile (12 km) course with smoother logistics and even better countryside views.
Starting just outside Camborne, the route takes runners through Penponds, Barripper, Carnhell Green, Reawla and Rosewarne before looping back to the finish. With 131 m of total ascent and 126 m of descent, the course balances rolling terrain with long runnable stretches that encourage quick times.
Expect narrow rural lanes, cheering locals, and those deceptively steady climbs that can sting late in the race. It’s a course that rewards smart pacing — steady through the first few miles, hold back for the rise past Carnhell Green, and dig deep on the return climb toward Camborne before a fast, satisfying finish.
Honouring Camborne’s Engineering Heritage
The race’s new identity celebrates Richard Trevithick, Camborne’s pioneering engineer whose innovations in steam power shaped the region’s industrial history. The Trevithick 12K not only connects runners to that spirit of progress and endurance but also anchors the event firmly in local pride and Cornish identity.
Grand Prix Season Opener
As the first event of the 2026 Cornish Grand Prix Series, the Trevithick 12K sets the tone for the year ahead. It regularly attracts 500+ runners from clubs all over Cornwall and Devon — from elite competitors chasing points to social runners easing back after Christmas.
With friendly marshals, well-marked signage, and Carn Runners’ trademark organisation, it’s a race where everyone feels welcome. Expect a strong field, buzzing energy, and the kind of camaraderie that only a January road race can bring.
Race Day Essentials
- Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles
- Total Ascent: 131 m
- Start/Finish: Camborne area
- Terrain: Quiet country lanes, undulating road sections
- Date: January 2026 (TBC – check Carn Runners website for entries)
And yes — the legendary post-race cakes and hot drinks will still be there at the finish.
Why You Should Run It
- The perfect early-season test of fitness
- Scenic, well-supported Cornish countryside route
- Inclusive for runners of all speeds
- A celebration of local heritage and community spirit
Whether you’re a Grand Prix regular or a first-timer, the Trevithick 12K is the ideal way to kick-start your racing year.
See You on the Start Line
With a new name, a new route, and the same welcoming spirit, the Trevithick 12K is ready to become a modern Cornish classic. Sign up early, lace up after the holidays, and join Carn Runners for what’s sure to be another unforgettable season opener. 💛💙
