racing is packed with beautiful, friendly fixtures offering an exhilarating sense of freedom and adventure.Getting StartedOnce synonymous with hardy veterans in their club vests through the depths of winter, trail and cross-country running is now hitting

K Trail Race (Dumfries and Galloway, June 15) Mabie Forest in Dumfriesshire has been a mountain bikers’ and walkers’ mecca for many years now. But this new 10K, organised by Dumfries Border Harriers, will be the first time runners have had

Taking a break from Tarmac to run on trails is a great way to invigorate your running routine. The scenic vistas you don't normally encounter on your everyday road loop stimulate both your mind and body. To get the  most out of your trail running

I've ticked most of the 'must-do' boxes in my 20 years of running, from 5Ks to marathons, a multi-day event and even a night run. But I've never raced a mile, attempted cross-country or donned fancy dress. Nor have I run a European city marathon

I've ticked most of the 'must-do' boxes in my 20 years of running, from 5Ks to marathons, a multi-day event and even a night run. But I've never raced a mile, attempted cross-country or donned fancy dress. Nor have I run a European city marathon

UK Trail Running Championships, Cotgrave: Sunday, May 20WHY RUN IT?Held over a scenic course (over an approximate marathon distance), this figure-of-eight route is extremely tough with 1500ft of climbing. There are also races over eight miles and 44

Weight 355g Evaluation Despite being an outdoor brand rather than a running company, The North Face has produced a number of shoes that have proved popular with our off-road and adventure-racing weartesters. The Flight Trail is a decent entry

) and those that are spike-friendly – or if you’re a big guy who needs a sturdy but very grippy shoe for cross-country races – the Extrano could work for you.Even without the spike feature, the Extrano is a decent – if slightly heavy – trail shoe. Its rubber

We've reviewed a newer version since we published this.Weight 304gEvaluation The Salomon XA Series is a racing flat for the trail market. Instead of a heavy, element-protected upper, you get a lightweight, highly-breathable, sock-like affair

to the chalky cliffs of the South Downs. Enter online now.2. PUMA Derwentwater Trail Race 14KKeswick, Cumbria, September 5  Set within the Lake District National Park, this race is a must for trail addicts and recreational runners alike, taking place along