UK Enterprise Awards 2026

Trail Blazing Events is a fast-growing, family-run events company specialised in creating trail races that go far beyond a typical run – It creates exciting and memorable running experiences across the northwest of England by merging picturesque locations, creative ideas, and a buzzing atmosphere like no other. This isn’t all, for it delivers professional chip timing services to other race organisers, too, not only hosting brilliant events itself but also supporting members of the community to improve their timing with high-quality equipment. We speak to Richard McQuilton-Morgan to learn more about Trail Blazing Events’ award-winning offering. Best Emerging Events Company 2026 The UK has a strong and growing running community – and Trail Blazing Events is delighted to be contributing to it by offering one-of-a-kind events that bring people together and offer something fresh to the events industry. Every day, Trail Blazing Events strives to create unforgettable experiences for runners – the aim always being to see people cross the finish line smiling, proud, and already thinking about their next event. Guiding everything it does are core values of community, creativity, and quality; it is always listening to its runners, on the look out for new ideas, and paying close attention to the details that make each event special. Whether planning new races or improving existing ones, it remains focused on offering something that can’t be found anywhere else and a long-term vision of growing a strong, loyal running community. “We stay ahead by constantly thinking differently and being open to new ideas,” explains Richard. “As a smaller, family-run business, we can adapt quickly, try new concepts, and respond directly to feedback from our runners. When challenges arise, we tackle them head-on with a practical and positive approach. Whether it’s unpredictable weather or logistical hurdles, we focus on solutions and teamwork.” In particular, Trail Blazing Events observes a growing demand for more than just traditional races, with runners looking for experiences that are fun, social, and memorable. By taking part in its races, they also get to take in spectacular UK landscapes, including forests, hills, and coastal routes. “At the heart of Trail Blazing Events is a genuine passion for what we do. We care about our runners, we listen to feedback, and we’re always looking for ways to improve. We’re not just building events – We’re building a community and creating experiences that people remember long after race day.” This is while runners also have an increasing expectation for sustainability to be prioritised, and organisers are responding by finding innovative ways to reduce waste and allow participants more choice, such as optional medals and eco-friendly alternatives. These trends align with what Trail Blazing Events already does – It has always been focused on experience-led events, and is now building on that by introducing ideas such as Tees for Trees and enhancing race day content with course videos. In terms of the types of people that Trail Blazing Events welcomes to join its team, Richard says, “As a family-run business, we look for people who share our passion, energy, and commitment to delivering great experiences. Attitude is just as important as skills – We want people who care about runners and take pride in their work. We prioritise reliability, enthusiasm, and willingness to go the extra mile. In return, we offer a supportive environment where people can grow, learn new skills, and be part of something exciting and evolving.” Indeed, what Trail Blazing Events is going is very much an evolving concept – So, of course, that means there’s a lot to come in the future. We ask Richard to reveal what’s next for the company. “We have some exciting plans in the pipeline,” he says. “By the end of 2026, most of our events will include course videos, giving runners a new way to relive their experience and prepare for future races. “We’re also continuing to expand our event calendar, introduce new concepts, and build on our sustainability efforts. Over the next 12-24 months, our focus is on growing the business while staying true to what makes us special – creative, community-driven events.” If you would like to learn more or get involved with a race, please visit the company website or email trailblazingevents@outlook.com. Company name: Trail Blazing Events Contact name: Richard McQuilton-Morgan Website: www.trailblazingevents.co.uk Email: trailblazingevents@outlook.com

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUyMDQwMA==