covered 10K, half marathon and full marathon distances so there would be something for everyone. In the absence of a 5K race having accumulated 25 or more ratings, we simply included our choice of beginner-friendly options.1. Reading Half-Marathon

1. Mull of Kintyre Half-MarathonArgyll and Bute, May 30 This race makes it into the beginner category for much the same reasons as it made it into atmosphere and half-marathon top 10 – it’s just a race that’s really good fun to run, the vibe

. We've divided the top-rated races into the following categories: 10K; half-marathon; marathon; and other distances. Check out this page every day this week for a new countdown - and visit the site on Friday for a round-up of the best events judged

to its detailsAnd on our wishlistRate foreign races (high time we listed key overseas events)Search by rating (eg show the most beginner-friendly races in the North)And a few secret things...

in the famous Don Valley Stadium generates a thrilling atmosphere in front of crowds of spectators, while just as many cheering supporters – and bands – line the circular route that’s fast, flat and friendly to both beginners and hard-boiled PB hunters.More Half-Marathon

for beginners new to the road-racing scene. Race website: www.spar.co.zaKnysna Forest Marathon & Half-Marathon (July)2009 Date: July 11 Knysna on the Southern Cape in July is the place to be for the annual Oyster Festival, complete with sports events, live

over 50 events taking place across the length and breadth of the UK, our 2009 Marathon Index has all the inspiration you need to embrace your new (or next) marathon challenge. Exmoor Coastal Marathon, May 9 Spring When is it? What is it

become the most competitive of the lot – many of the top 10 trail events could have appeared in other charts, from Scenery to Atmosphere (if perhaps not PB potential).Half marathons also had a strong showing – you raved about dozens of them. Many

1. Southport MAD DOG Seaside 10K, MerseysideDate in 2012: February 12This year’s 10K top dog, a flat race taking in town, country and seaside scenery, also comes highly recommended for beginners. With chip timing, a medal, a techical tee memento (in

is one beginner who's wondering whether to take the plunge. "Should I fill in the form or dream on until next year???" he asked a couple of weeks ago, kicking off the Should I enter?! thread in the Flora London Marathon forum. Ashapalan has only been