Carnwath Red Hose Race

Where: Carnwath, Lanarkshire at Heads Inn Farm
When: Saturday in late July
Time: Noon

 

Dating from 1508, the Red Hose Race at Carnwath is a race with a pair of red socks as the prize and is believed to be the oldest surviving foot race in the world. Originally held around the Feast of St John the Baptist in June, the race has now been absorbed into the Carnwath Agricultural Show in July as part of a much larger event, following rumours that it would cease due to lack of entries.  The 3 mile race is a well loved local event and organisers were keen to keep the tradition alive. The show has many other attractions including dancing, handicrafts, other sports like tug-o-war, music, sheep shearing and of course animal classes.

Helpful Hints

In 2023 it should be on Saturday 29th July.

The timing and location of this event only changed during 2011 – don’t be misled by earlier articles that it is held in June at Sir John Mann Park . In 2012 it was won for the first time ever by a female entrant! While outsiders may take part in the race, only locals are eligible to win the socks.

Click here for the event website : http://www.carnwathagriculturalsociety.com/

and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/carnwath.show/

Show Secretary is Anne Robertson (Tel. 07887 573437)

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