Headscarf Hustle: Walk or Run for History on International Women’s Day
Posted 22nd January 2026
An event with meaning
Hull’s riverside will come alive this International Women’s Day as people of all ages and abilities come together for the Headscarf Hustle – a powerful 5km run or walk along the Humber with a mission that goes far beyond fitness. Taking place on Saturday 8 March 10am (International Women’s Day), the Headscarf Hustle aims to raise the profile of the campaign to build a statue in Hull. This honours the Headscarf Revolutionaries – the remarkable women who changed fishing safety forever. Led by Lillian Bilocca, alongside her fellow campaigners, these Hull women stood up to injustice in the 1960s after the tragic loss of local fishermen. Their determination forced vital safety reforms in the fishing industry, saving countless lives and leaving a legacy that deserves permanent recognition in the city they called home.
In true recognition of the Headscarf Revolutionaries, every participant will receive not only an event number but also a headscarf to wear on the day. The headscarf was the unmistakable trademark of the original campaigners and has become a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance. Each year, the headscarves are handmade by local volunteers, who come together one afternoon ahead of the event to create around 400 headscarves with care and pride. Adding to the excitement, a brand-new design is created for the event every year, with this year’s design set to be revealed very soon.
Organised by Fitmums and Friends, on behalf of the the Headscarf Hustle is about remembering history, celebrating women’s voices, and inspiring future generations.
Distance: 5km
Route: Along the Humber river path
Start point: Sammie’s Point what3words: trunk /// flank /// hops
Open to everyone – you can run or walk
Buggies and wheelchairs welcome
Not a timed event, but participants are welcome to time themselves
Entry fees
£10 – ages 16+ years
£5 – ages 5–15 years
The event will be officially started by BBC Look North presenter Peter Levy, adding to what promises to be a memorable and meaningful day. Proceeds from the event will support Fitmums and Friends and the Headscarf Revolutionaries statue campaign, with a strong focus on raising awareness and momentum to see this long-overdue statue built in Hull.
Why take part?
This International Women’s Day, step forward for women who stepped up when it mattered most. Whether you’re running, walking, pushing a buggy or rolling along in a wheelchair, the Headscarf Hustle is about community, inclusion, and honouring four extraordinary women who changed history.
You can enter the event HERE
For more information about the campaign see here
For enquiries admin@fitmums.org.uk
Pull on your trainers, wear your headscarf with pride, and join Hull in making history visible.
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