The historic Olney Pancake Race has welcomed a new main sponsor for 2026. George Davies Turf & Stone, a long-established Olney business, will sponsor the event’s Marquee when the world-famous race returns on Shrove Tuesday, 17 February 2026.
Founder George Davies said, “Over the last 25 years we’ve made many friends and supported local events, so being asked to help with the Pancake Race is truly an honour. I’ve watched and cheered on friends for years and love the buzz it brings to the town. I want to help the race continue.”
The company joins an impressive line-up of sponsors for 2026 — Bonne Maman®, Kingsley Healthcare, Blackstone® and Whitworth Bros. Ltd — each helping to make this much-loved Olney tradition possible. Organisers have expressed their gratitude to all sponsors for their commitment to keeping the event thriving for future generations.
The Olney Pancake Race is believed to date back to 1445, when a local woman is said to have dashed to church with her frying pan still in hand after hearing the shriving bell. Since then, the race has become a global symbol of Shrove Tuesday celebrations. It has taken place every year since 1948, except for 2021 when it was paused due to pandemic restrictions.
Entries for the 2026 race will open in early December, with organisers inviting women over 18 who live or work in Olney to take part. The official website — olneypancakerace.org — and the race’s social media pages will share full entry details, schedules and updates as the event approaches.
Race Day activities will centre around Olney Market Place, which transforms each year into a lively hub of community celebration. The morning will begin with a pancake breakfast prepared by Ben Francis, Head Chef at the Cherry Tree Pub & Restaurant. Visitors can then enjoy a cookery demonstration and a host of family activities, taking advantage of the school half-term week.
The children’s races will begin at 10am, followed by the main race at 11:55am, when competitors sprint from the Market Place to the church — each flipping a pancake as they run. Afterwards, runners and visitors gather for the Shriving Service in St Peter and St Paul Church, marking the spiritual heart of the day’s festivities.
The Olney Pancake Race continues to attract visitors from across Buckinghamshire and beyond, helping to boost the local economy, showcase Olney’s community spirit and celebrate one of Britain’s quirkiest traditions.
For updates, visit olneypancakerace.org or follow @olneypancakerace on Facebook and @theolneypancakerace on Instagram.
