Halstead Marathon, Essex: Sunday, May 19WHY RUN IT?Scenery, value for money, spaceA low-key marathon, over undulating country roads that strays across the Suffolk borders. This year’s race hosts the 2002 Road Runners Club Championships.FEES£9

, it isn’t a particularly quick course. Thirty competitors ran the inaugural race last year, in the event organised by the charity Cystic Fibrosis Trust, but this year the 80 limit will definitely be reached.FEES£20, payable to Cystic Fibrosis Trust

, the Norland Trail Race, the Helen Windsor 10K, the Mytholmroyd Fell Race and the Calderdale Way Fell Relay, and will this year add a new one, the Halifax Town Centre 5K, to that list. New Balance commends all running clubs for their commitment

sneaky spurt of speed mid-race, whatever your paceAsk other runners...RW readers are some of the most supportive people in the world when it comes to training and racing. Whether you have a question about a specific race, a 'can I do it' question, or a

L1310K: Great event all round" Absolutely fantastic atmosphere - have never known any event like it. Even the church choirs come outside to sing during it!." Catherine Bernal, on the Hastings Half.This year saw a number of races make some impressive

Lochaber Marathon: fast, flat and with some great scenery too "Superbly organised, beautiful countryside and a great atmosphere. Looking forward to next year!" Harriet Cameron, on the Windsor Half.If you don’t mind slowing yourself down a little

the festive period, from Liverpool’s world recording-breaking field (last year there were over 4,000 Santa-suited runners, and entries close at 1pm on Friday, November 24) to the small but cosy feel of Inverclyde’s 5K dash.This year London has joined the club

, it’s a short yet steep climb and an agonising u-turn with the finish line insight. The race has steadily grown over the years and will boast a 1000+ strong field.What the organiser says:“You will definitely be made to feel welcome and all levels

year, the Shakespeare races are already looking forward to their biggest fields to date, with 3,000 runners scheduled to lace-up at this year's start. That shouldn't come as a surprise, with a course that boasts the Warwickshire countryside, as well

More photos at Richk.co.ukSince way back in 2002 the Windsor Half-Marathon has been a real-life meeting place for runners who have got to know each other on RW's forum.The last few years have become even more sociable, with a big forum marquee