The women of Olney are under starters orders as they prepare for the historic Olney Pancake Race, which takes place on Shrove Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
The runners, dressed in a skirt and head scarf and clutching their frying pan and pancake, will be following a great tradition; the race is reputed to have taken place since 1445 and has certainly run every year since 1948, except for 2021.
In 1950 the Pancake Race became an international event when the town of Liberal in Kansas, USA issued a challenge to Olney. In a spirit of international goodwill and friendship, the two towns now compete annually, and prizes are exchanged.
Ahead of the race itself, there are lots of activities taking place in the Market Place, starting with a special pancake breakfast, prepared by local chef, Ben Francis from The Cherry Tree Pub and Restaurant. With stalls, even more pancakes, music, a fabulous grand raffle, plus races for local nurseries and school children, there will be something for everyone.
The ticketed breakfast takes place from 8.00am, with the children’s races at 10.00 and the main race at 11.55am. and all the details are on our website olneypancakerace.org. You can also like us on Facebook @olneypancakerace, or on Instagram @theolneypancakerace
Immediately after the race, all the runners join visitors in a Shriving Service which is held in the Church of St Peter and St Paul.
The church is celebrating its 700th anniversary in 2025 and the service will include some of the famous Olney Hymns, written by Rev. John Newton and the poet William Cowper, in particular, the hymn ‘Amazing Grace’.
