FREE entry is up for grabs for Hackney residents at the Hackney 5.5k run and festival style event on Sunday 30 April.

It’s part of the Hackney Festival of Fitness by Virgin Sport, in partnership with Hackney Council, which also includes the 13.1 mile half marathon, with roaring crowds and music at every mile, passing by Hackney’s most famous landmarks. This year also features a free “Go Fit Yourself” fitness and yoga boot camp on Hackney Marshes including, on the main stage, Faisal Abdulla (Barry’s East and Ellie Goulding’s PT) hosting a HIIT class full of positive mental attitude, and Hackney based Fat Buddha Yoga providing the next generation of urban yoga.

All day festival

So if you are a bodybuilder or yogi, passing dogwalker or loyal supporter – there’s something for everyone. Come and soak up the vibes at the free access festival village area on the Marshes including local bands and DJs, roaming entertainment, live artwork installations, pop-up sports activities including free football skills sessions, plus an amazing array of East London’s finest food & drink (with a license this year).

Enjoy a closed road race 

The 5.5k closed road race starts at 1.30pm, and participants will get to enjoy the full 'big city race' treatment, complete with water stations, bands and entertainment, pace setters, signage, finishers medals and t-shirts.

To apply for a free 5.5k place, e-mail: park.events@hackney.gov.uk, stating your name, address and postcode.

Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents applying for a 5.5k place must be aged 15 years or over.

All those who do secure a place will be notified within 24-hours of submission.

For more info, go to www.virginsport.com