Runners – many in bright pink outfits – took to the routes around York Racecourse.
They did so to raise money for Cancer Research UK to help his life-saving work.
In the morning, participants competed in 10 km and 5 km races.
This afternoon, kids and adults alike will take to the Pretty Muddy obstacle course to climb, crawl and slide their way down a 5km course at Knavesmire.
Event manager Amy Seymour said a total of three thousand attendees are expected at all events.
“It’s going to be an amazing day,” she previously told The Press. “It is very important that these events take place in the fight against cancer.”
Among the runners were novices, experienced runners and also children.
Brian Hall ran his first 10km race at the age of 91.
“I feel good,” he said an hour before he set off. “I’ve never raced before. It’s just rare, I have to keep fit.”
The great-grandfather, known to friends as ‘The Magician’, previously told The Press he decided to take part in Race for Life after being suggested by his coach Denise Cooper.
On the day of the race, Brian, originally from Leeds and now from York, was wearing a pink tutu and wig, which he said guaranteed him an extra £10 from a woman he met in a cafe earlier.
He added that he has so far raised £500 for Cancer Research UK.
As for what he’ll be doing after the race, Brian said, “I’m going to get something to eat to celebrate.”
Elizabeth Jones participated in the Race for Life, making it her seventh time participating.
But for Elizabeth, it’s not a race, instead a chance to raise money to fight cancer.
She was running in memory of her daughter-in-law Monica Braginton, who died of breast cancer three months after marrying Elizabeth’s son Neil.
Elizabeth won £300 for her participation.
Five minutes before starting the 10-kilometer course, she said, “I’m going to do it.”
‘It takes me out of my comfort zone’
Runners were cheered as they circled the course before the finish line across the finish line.
“I feel good,” Rachel Hyde-Smart said after crossing the line. “A lot of fitness, but I don’t run much.”
Nevertheless, she managed the 10 km run in 55 minutes.
“It takes me out of my comfort zone,” added Rachel, who lives near Selby. “Cancer is such a horrible thing so it’s good to put myself in a position to raise money for a good cause.”
Monika Schmid completed a 10 km run with her colleagues from the Department of Languages and Linguistics at the University of York.
“It was great,” she said. “I’m glad it’s not as hot as earlier in the week.
“It’s a really nice course with lots of encouragement along the way.
The team raised around £1,000 for charity.
Monika explained why she participated: “Like everyone in the world, I know people who have had cancer.
“My husband Chris was treated for leukemia eight years ago.
Her team-mate Ellie Rye said her mum Sue had lost her battle with cancer which was why she was taking part.