ONE of the biggest dates in the athletics calendar will be under starter’s orders this Saturday when Highgate Harriers’ annual Night of the 10,000m PB’s returns to Hampstead Heath.

Some of the best elite runners in the world will line up at the newly refurbished Parliament Hill athletics track to compete in the not-for-profit showpiece – which is completely free to attend.

This year, the final men’s and women’s races will include the UK trials for the Paris Olympic selection, while international athletes will also be chasing Olympic qualifying times.

The racing will start from 2.30pm, closing with a medal ceremony at 10pm. Spectators can watch from on the track itself or on the grass infield where there will also be free children’s activities and entertainment.

Event director Ben Pochee said: “Highgate Harriers’ volunteer-powered event offers the unique opportunity to get up close and personal to the fastest runners on the planet. I’m very proud how our club and community have grown this initiative, from local event to international beacon destination in 10 short years.

“We are hugely grateful to the City Corporation for investing in the Parliament Hill track with their recent £2m refurbishment – without which the 2024 event simply could not proceed. And we’re appreciative of our partnership with Swiss sports brand, On, who are our title sponsor as part of their global athletics event series, On Track Nights.”