Runners and walkers alike hit the streets of Stoke-on-Trent to begin the hilly but scenic route of the Potters ‘Arf on Sunday 11 June, billed as one of the toughest in the country. Temperatures on the day reached a sweltering 28C, making the intense course even more challenging.

Atlanta supported the event as Healthy Snack sponsor, with Atlanta and Autonet branding at the event, on finisher T-shirts, on the official race website, the official race programme and social media coverage. We were delighted to be part of the event that raises so much for a host of good causes close to competitors’ hearts and brings an abundance of community spirit to the city of Stoke-on-Trent. 

Around 2,000 people took part in the event, including runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. The city cheered on competitors taking on either the 13.1 mile run, 13.1 mile walk, relay event or 1km or 2km kids races. 

Team Atlanta

We were proud to support our Atlanta Relay team and half marathon runners, who did brilliantly throughout the route across the city. Their commitment was fantastic, particularly when the sun was blazing down. 

Pictured: Atlanta runners (left to right) Sam Day, Helen Worthy, James Fowler

These events can’t take place without our brilliant marshals, so special thanks also to our fantastic Atlanta Volunteer Crew, who were stationed on Victoria Road cheering the runners and making sure the roads were safe, and at the finish line handing out goodie bags to the finishers. 

Pictured: Atlanta Volunteer Crew (left to right) Lauren Smith, Kayleigh O’Keeffe, Victoria Emery, Helen Mulholland

Chris Holmes, our Head of Commercial Management, said:

“Brilliant experience. This was my seventh Potters ‘Arf. I managed 8 miles in the relay and next year I’m looking to run 13. It was a warm one, but it’s a day when you are certainly proud to be a Stokie!”

You can make a donation to Chris’ fundraiser page here.

Pictured: Atlanta runner Chris Holmes

Helen Worthy, our Leadership Facilitator, said:

“It was a brilliant day. Really enjoyed the experience and atmosphere.”

Matt Bourne, our Van Team Leader, said:

“It was a boiling day, but I’m proud to have completed it and to have raised money for an important cause. Thanks for all of the support!”

You can make a donation to Matt’s fundraiser page here.

Pictured: Atlanta runners Matt Bourne and Julie Goodall

James Fowler, our Risk Officer, said:

“Well done to everyone who took part this year! It was a crazy hot day but the atmosphere was brilliant. It was great to see our Atlanta volunteers when I was on route to the relay point and at the end. A special shout out to my relay teammates, Sam for tackling Vicky Road with no shade in the heat, and Helen who finished the relay so quickly. She even got to the finish line before me, and I got a lift there!”

Pictured: Atlanta runner James Fowler

Ian Cawley, our Renewals Administrator, commented:

“Congratulations to all the runners. That was my ninth Potters, and undeniably the warmest of the lot! God bless everyone with water hoses and ice pops.”

Pictured: Atlanta runner Ian Cawley

Sam Day, our Fraud Technician, said:

“Well done, everyone! I had a great first experience of the Potters ‘Arf. The atmosphere was brilliant and I’m looking forward to taking part again next year!”

Congratulations to all our runners who took part in the Potters ‘Arf 2023!