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
scenery of the nearby Lee Valley. After a whirlwind tour of the sports ground, runners will chart through the surrounding residential area before heading off-road along the stony, canal towpath beside the River Lee. A final lap of the stadium draws
-thick tyres: to cruise over the sand, mud, hills and bogs that typify army training terrain. Pit a trail-blazing group of off-road runners ploughing against similar landscapes however, and it’s anyone’s guess how wet, dirty and utterly exhausted they’ll emerge
confirms that you’ve just a handful of "cows and other running nutters" for company. Comprising continuous, leg-sapping inclines over tricky terrain, the pains and the strains of the course will almost certainly pale in comparison to the heart-warming glow
Round The TableName Andrew Taylor, Running High Events Organises Bath Half-Marathon (since 2000) Name Paul Magner, Trailplus Organises Off-road events including the Saab Salomon Hellrunner series, Helly Hansen adventure races and Puma Urban Escape
country views.National Highlights...Yorkshireman Off-Road Marathon, September 9Yorkshireman Off-Road Marathon (West Yorkshire, September 9) Clinging perilously to the hillside above the Pennine moors, the village of Haworth – once home to the famous
) incline and a spectator-friendly track start and finish.Muscular Dystrophy Run Holkham Hall (Norfolk, August 5) The grounds and deer park of one of Norfolk’s most majestic homes make a grandiose setting for this two-lap multi-terrain 10K. --Filling fast
to walk I make sure it is a brisk pace, which is often quicker and more efficient than running. Having the mentality ‘it’s going to make me a better runner’ is a good motivator. The terrain you are on can make a big difference too. On roads there aren
– if past years are anything to go by, this fixture is sure to reach its entrant limit in advance of race day.More off-road highlights...Henham 10K (Hertfordshire, June 10)Sialens y Barcud and Ras y Diafol challenges (Ceredigion, June 16 & 17)Pennine 100
