!"Gareth Davis, on the Snowdonia Marathon. Obviously, any event that involves thick mud, tunnels, ice cold water, barbed wire and fire is going to come top of our tough races category. Others in our top five, though, offer a different kind of challenge.1 Tough

Whether you've made the decision to tackle 26.2 miles for the first time, or are on the hunt for a tougher challenge, this is the guide for you. If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly urban spectacular, take your pick from long

Captain Simon Powers was first bitten by the triathlon bug when he was posted to Cyprus with the Royal Logistic Corps. Six Ironman races later, he’s stepping up to the challenge of a lifetime on June 2 – The Battle Back 1000.Captain Powers will take

- albeit a little closer to home."It's a genuine challenge, athletically and logistically, and a fantastic way to see some of the world in fast forward!” says Andrew.Andrew, 32, from Aberdeen has been running for seven years and is known for running in some

Isle of Man Marathon: Sunday, August 11WHY RUN IT?Challenge, solitude, value for moneyOne of Britain’s best-value events (the price includes a buffet and transport to and from start), but also one of Britain’s smallest – only 78 ran last year

Isle of Wight Marathon: Saturday, May 18WHY RUN IT?Challenge, history, scenery, value for moneyBritain’s oldest marathon (first run in 1957) is one of the toughest, but best-value, events. FEES£6/£7, payable to Ryde Harriers by May 11. Entries

Neolithic Marathon: Sunday, May 5WHY RUN IT?Scenery, Stonehenge, challengeThis cross-country marathon starts at the Great Barn in Avebury and follows the route to Stonehenge over which the famous rocks were hauled 5000 years ago. There is also a

Afford Rent-a-Car Potteries Marathon, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire: Sunday, June 16WHY RUN IT?Challenge, atmosphere, supportBritain’s top summer marathon has five notable hills, and celebrates its 21st anniversary this year. The mostly urban route

Rottingdean Windmill Marathon, Sussex: Sunday, July 14WHY RUN IT?Challenge, sceneryA tough trail marathon run over a rolling South Downs route. There are also 15-mile and eight-mile options. It is primarily advertised as a walk, but runners

A quick update today as we're hoping to have the full story from our Marathon des Sables challenger himself when he returns to RW Towers later this week.Jamie completed the MdS in a total time of 39 hours and nine minutes. The marathon stage he