-Marathon) (95%, 100%, 15 ratings) Where? Derbyshire When? May 16This off-road race run over the Tissington and High Peak trails in Derbyshire is perfect for those who prefer smaller events to the allure of big city races.12. McCain Yorkshire Coast 10K (94%, 98

in Need mascot, the town of Pudsey, near Leeds, is also renowned (in running circles at least) for its testing multi-terrain summer 10K. Certainly the course’s opening flat tarmac stretch does nothing to belie what follows – runners are soon directed off-road

; free post-race meals.Bedford Clanger 27 When: March 14 Where: Bedfordshire 2009 Rating: new to RW Run this if you like... going off-road; exploring unmarked courses; raising money for charity.Cotswold Marathon **ENTER ONLINE** When: March 21 Where

run over that surface with a measure of relaxation." Fitness benefitsThe payoff for runners opting to take a bit of pain going cross-country in the off-season is clear, as far as Gandy is concerned: "There will be considerable fitness benefits, which

of this enjoyable bank holiday jaunt. Enter online now.    Stockley Park Easter Monday 10K  (Middlesex, April 25, Monday)One of Greater London's largest business parks may seem an odd location for an off-road race. However, runners have been charmed by the variety

to toughness ratio Is it a hardy shoe that still manages to keep the weight down? Responsiveness Despite being designed for rugged terrain, did the tester still feel like they were wearing running shoes? Support Does it provide any support for non

. Getting StartedTeaming up with other runners is the best way to dip your toe in if you’re completely new to off-road running. The Fell Running Association website has links to clubs across the country – contact a local group for a network of people ready

into the strong headwind that can whip up off the English Channel. The roads around the park and seafront will be closed for the event and this year sees the introduction of chip timing. More coastal highlights… Gosport Half-Marathon (Hampshire, November 16

softly cushioned trail shoes on the market, but a forefoot protection plate makes it particularly suited to rough ground nonetheless.In short Heavy-duty grip and a sure-footed design make the Wasatch a serious off-road shoe. It’s not the lightest model

five-fingered Meta-shank support in the midfoot for support, and a Fascia-band on the sole, which aids forward propulsion. The shoe feels like a hardy road shoe, responsive and smooth with decent cushioning for an off-roader – you could even run