The first Bedale 10k and fun run was held on the town’s new bypass in aid of Herriot Hospice Homecare.
The hospice charity was given permission to run the inaugural event on the new road before its scheduled opening in August.
Richmond MP Rishi Sunak started both the 10k race and 5k fun run near the new roundabout on the A864 west of the town. The runners’ route took them along the completed road to east of Leeming Bar and back to the finish at Bedale Athletic and Sports Association.
Mr Sunak said: “It was great to be part of this new event on a new road. I hope the Bedale 10k will be a regular event in the town’s calendar and I’m sure the new road will be a big boost for the town and the wider area.
“There was a fabulous turnout and lots of money will be generated for this great local charity.”
Leanne Hardcastle, Herriot Hospice Homecare’s events fundraiser, said the two runs had been over-subscribed.
“We were delighted by the turnout and very grateful to all our sponsors, particularly the road building contractors Wills Bros who made it all possible and could not have been more helpful.”
She said the other main sponsors were estate agents Dacre Son and Hartley and builders merchants JT Atkinson.
Miss Hardcastle also paid tribute to hospice supporter Andrew Sedgwick who had played a major role in helping make the event happen.
Mr Sedgwick, of Morton on Swale, lost his wife Linda to cancer 18 months ago. He said: “The hospice was marvellous in helping Linda and our family so I felt it was important to do this.”
Wills Bros foreman Tommy Mcomb said the company had been pleased to help. He confirmed the £42m project was on schedule to be completed on time.