to be seduced by all the gear for sale, but even if you do splash out, it's best not to try out new kit in your marathon – 26.2 miles is a seriously long way to run in uncomfortable clothes or shoes. If you do feel the urge to liven up your race kit, why
, October 3 Undeterred by abysmal weather, 1,000 runners completed this race this year. The 20-miler started in Dunsfold Aerodrome, the site of the BBC Top Gear track, and wound through the pretty village of Dunsfold before finishing back at the aerodrome
the hilly Lincolnshire Wolds in this single-lap road race. This long-standing event has a loyal field of runners, who value the smooth organisation, great facilities and friendly atmosphere. 5. Stockport 10, Greater ManchesterDate in 2012: Dec (TBC
If you ran a Trailblazer race last year, you'll already know what knockout events they are. If you didn't, read on.Trailblazer, sponsored by Saucony, is a firm and fast 10K trail run set in stunning woodland. There are three locations to choose from
This Sunday heralds the return of one of the UK's most prestigious endurance triathlons; Ironman UK. This is the only officially branded Iron distance event in England. More than 1,500 triathletes will be speeding through Lancashire's countryside
gearing to give me the best chance of making it up and over the three big climbs - the Col du Grand Serre, Col d'Ornon and the (count 'em) 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d'Huez itself. But before I can think about the bike section, I have to get to grips
Not to be missed: Pirates swamped the city of FrankfurtNever underestimate the demands of being a supporter; it takes as much commitment as participating in an event but there are no medals to show for it. Whether it’s a 5K run or an Ironman
Dunsfold British Aerospace test centre for this flat, two-lap event, packed with PB potential. Once home to the Harrier Jump Jet and now the base for the BBC Top Gear team, the surrounding scenery might not provide much in the way of distraction
Leaving on a jet plane for an overseas event? Lucky you! Here’s how to make sure you hit the ground running and avoid having a racing holiday from hell. Bon voyage!BEFORE YOU GOGetting A VisaWithout the correct visa you might never get off
, then this super friendly point-to-point race could be the perfect event to kick off your running calendar. Starting at the pretty village of Chiddingly this race meanders through quiet countryside roads to the quaint village of East Hoathly. Expect a large flag
