And they're off... 50,000 runners take to the streets When the inaugural Great North Run took place in 1981, more than 12,000 runners charged through the streets of Newcastle. Twenty-six years later a lot has changed. The field has reached an eye

by the crowds and the runners.2 Nike 10K, London, SeptemberWith so many new runners out for a great day, this really is as much a friendly ‘social gathering’ as a full-on race.3 Bupa Great North Run, Newcastle, SeptemberIt’s the world’s biggest half-marathon, so

could even squeeze in two for the satisfaction of seeing your time drop within just a few weeks. Head to the north-west for the City of Manchester 10K; or take advantage of the big racing opportunities in London this month, with the Bupa Great Capital 10

London Marathon. Tick. Great North Run. Tick. You’ve crossed off some classic British races from your to-do list but there’s a whole world waiting out there for your next racing kick. Whether you fancy soaking up the amazing atmosphere of New

on the promenade Gin Pit 5 (Lancs, May 26)RW Says: Named after a nearby abandoned pit, the trails make for great runningThe Week's Most Popular…1. Flora Light Challenge for Women 5K, September 5, London - Birmingham Join thousands of women and girls for the UK

Thames. If you’re looking to run a faster time, this could be your best bet. Includes the Surrey 10K Championship.Spans: "Great race and a great Sunday lunch was had by all, last year!"Gary T: "I forgot to enter last year and tried on the day. It was full

the whole route without stopping. “So, with quite poor training preparation and hardly two months’ running experience, I finished my first half in a painful 2:24. My friend never started the training.”That same year, Nicola ran the Great North Run

.Pacing problemsOf course, things don't always run smoothly. A few years ago a pace group leader opted for an ill-advised curry the night before the Great North West Half in Blackpool. A few miles into the race, his gut started asking some serious questions

, GwyneddDISTANCE Middle Distance (2K/78.5K/20K)SWIM Lake BIKE Road RUN Roadwww.wrecsamtri.org.ukThe Bala Half-Ironman is not for the faint-hearted. This is a tough race set in some of north Wales' most breathtaking scenery. The triathlon starts with a 2

training, and on course for a best-ever race-day performance. It runs from the end of June to September, and its 12-week training schedule is aimed at this year's Great North Run - September 20, 2009. Each bite-sized bulletin will contain a digest