Ultimate Race Guide 2017 - part 2

100 BEST RACES! Find your next challenge right here! We’ve got every distance covered, from 5K to 10K, halfmarathons, marathons – and beyond!

JULY TO DECEMBER 2017

RUN RUN UP A HILL ADMIRE THE VIEW FINISH PARTY 30K – 10K – 5K TRAIL RACES

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SNOWDONIA-OUTDOORFESTIVAL.CO.UK Selection of images courtesy of Visit Wales © Crown copyright (2016) Visit Wales

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

SUPERNOVA RUN, FALKIRK, STIRLINGSHIRE 10-12 November

Light up your life with this glow-rious event. Wear your brightest neon, grab your glowsticks and get ready to for a very fun 5K. Helix Park is home to the Kelpies, 30-metre horses which are the largest equine sculptures in the world, so you’re in for a visual treat.

HTTPS://WWW.SUPERNOVARUN.COM/

CANCER RESEARCH UK RACE FOR LIFE, NATIONWIDE

THE CITYWHARF 5K RUN CHALLENGE, LONDON

spirit of things, a stick-on ’tache is a must.

One for the girls, this ever-popular 5K race series needs no introduction. Sign up, don your prettiest pink attire, then go and kick cancer’s butt. There’s nothing like the in-ittogether feeling of these events.

This event puts two London business districts head to head to see which will get the most runners, and raise the most money for charity. Results are based on individual placings combined with City and Wharf average times to find the fastest location.

VIRGIN SPORT BRITISH 10K, LONDON

HTTPS://THEFIXEVENTS.COM/EVENTS

HTTPS://UK.VIRGINSPORT.COM/EVENT/WESTMINSTER-2017/

Various dates

HTTPS://RACEFORLIFE.CANCERRESEARCHUK.ORG/

THE COLOR RUN, NATIONWIDE Various dates

The concept is fun and simple: wear white to the start line and get doused in coloured powder as you run. The race is untimed, so if you’d like a 5K with a big splash of colour and no pressure, this is it.

HTTP://THECOLORRUN.CO.UK/

STANDARD CHARTERED GREAT CITY RACE, LONDON

HTTPS://WWW.CITYRACE.CO.UK/

9 July

Run through the heart of central London, passing many of the capital’s historical landmarks along the way including Trafalgar Square, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge.

BRITISH-10K

BAXTERS RIVER NESS 5K FUN RUN, INVERNESS 24 September

This flat route runs alongside the River Ness. It’s open to all ages and abilities, including wheelchair entrants. The race organisers “guarantee you’ll finish this race with a smile on your face”!

SALOMON SUNSET SERIES, BRISTOL 8 July

This new series will tour the UK with four nationwide trail running events. Entrants will run a scenic 10K at sunset before celebrating from dusk at the event village.

HTTP://WWW.SALOMONSUNSETSERIES.CO.UK/

HTTP://WWW.LOCHNESSMARATHON.COM/

13 July

A corporate challenge and a unique closed-roads 5K, which takes you past St Paul’s Cathedral, the Bank of England and Tower 42. Enter through your company as a team of four or more.

HTTPS://WWW.MO-RUNNING.COM/LOCATIONS

21 September

MORUN, NATIONWIDE November

Choose from any of the many MoRuns taking place across the country this Movember to raise funds and awareness for men’s health. To really get into the

ASDA FOUNDATION YORK 10K 6 August

A quick sightseeing run round a stunning city. The highlight? Being cheered through St Helen’s Square and on to Duncombe Place with views of York Minster.

HTTP://WWW.RUNFORALL.COM/

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100 BEST RACES 100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHONS ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■MARATHONS ■OBSTACLE/ ■OBSTACLE/ULTRA/FUN ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS ■MARATHON (OVERSEAS)

BHF BLENHEIM PALACE 10K, WOODSTOCK, OXFORDSHIRE 1 October

The organisers claim that this is one of the UK’s most beautiful running events… And we’re not going to disagree. The historic Blenheim estate is stunning and this event, with three race distances, is engineered to take in the very best of the famous grounds.

HTTPS://WWW.BHF.ORG.UK/GET-INVOLVED/EVENTS/

PRIDE RUN 10K, LONDON 12 August

Pride Run, held in London’s leafy Victoria Park, follows a flat route of paths that are wheelchair accessible. All money raised will go towards supporting the charity Opening Doors London, which helps older LGBT communities.

LAKELAND TRAILS IN ULLSWATER, GLENRIDDING, CUMBRIA

INDIAN QUEENS HALF-MARATHON, INDIAN QUEENS, CORNWALL

This 10K follows well-marked paths and bridleways along the lake shore. Expect views of Helvellyn and the surrounding peaks, before the course dips into ancient woodland – gorgeous with autumn colour.

This scenic, low-key race is great if you like your races small and friendly. The rolling multi-terrain route is predominantly rural, showcasing Cornish countryside.

15 October

HTTPS://PRIDE10K.ORG/

HTTP://WWW.LAKELANDTRAILS.ORG/

RICHMOND AUTUMN RIVERSIDE 10K, RICHMOND, SURREY

LEEDS ABBEY DASH, WEST YORKS

7 October

This fun and friendly race is well known for its great atmosphere. Follow the River Thames for a fast and flat route, which takes you from Richmond to Ham House.

HTTPS://THEFIXEVENTS.COM/EVENTS

5 November

Organised by Age UK, this 10K takes in the city centre and Kirkstall Abbey. The out-and-back route follows flat roads and has a reputation as a PB buster. It’s a well-established race, so expect a bustling atmosphere and good local support.

6 August 2017

HTTP://WWW.NEWQUAYROADRUNNERS.CO.UK/

ISLE OF MAN HALF-MARATHON, RAMSEY 13 August

A low-key half-marathon that’s tough in places (watch out for the killer hill!), but the scenery more than makes up for your efforts. It’s praised for its friendly atmosphere and good organisation, and there is also a full marathon option.

HTTP://WWW.ISLEOFMANMARATHON.COM/

HTTP://WWW.AGEUK.ORG.UK/GET-INVOLVED/

PETTS WOOD 10K, PETTS WOOD, LONDON

BROOKS BRIGHTON 10K, SUSSEX

KENT COASTAL HALF-MARATHON, CLIFTONVILLE, KENT

This sell-out 10K, organised by Petts Wood Runners, is set on a mixture of roads and trails (expect lots of mud!). The undulating route takes you though beautiful National Trust woodlands.

This fabulous, flat road 10K takes place along the seafront, so don’t be surprised if you encounter a brisk sea breeze to blow away those autumn cobwebs. Expect fantastic crowd support!

A hilly coastal route, mostly along roads, this one offers lovely sea views to take your mind off all those ascents! Heading out from just outside Margate, the out-andback route takes you past Broadstairs.

HTTP://WWW.PETTSWOODRUNNERS.ORG/

HTTP://WWW.BROOKSBRIGHTON10K.CO.UK/

HTTP://WWW.THANETROADRUNNERS.ORG.UK/

8 October

womensrunninguk.co.uk

19 November

3 September

JULY 2017

63

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100 BEST RACES 100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHONS ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■MARATHONS ■OBSTACLE/ ■OBSTACLE/ULTRA/FUN ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS ■MARATHON (OVERSEAS)

ENGLISH HALF-MARATHON, WARRINGTON, CHESHIRE 17 September

Runners are in for a treat with this event, which showcases Warrington’s finest offerings, and the race is praised for its picturesque scenery.

Local support is great, giving an all-round friendly vibe. Yes, it’s hilly, so make sure you’re prepared for those uphill stretches!

HTTP://EHM.CONTEST-SPORTS.COM/

MAIDENHEAD HALF-MARATHON, BERKS

WIRRAL HALF-MARATHON, BIRKENHEAD, MERSEYSIDE

FOREST OF DEAN AUTUMN HALFMARATHON, NR LYDNEY, GLOUCS

This new(ish) race is already an awardwinner, having won Wirral Tourism Award Event of the Year. Runners take in the River Mersey promenade and on to New Brighton. There’s a 10K option, too.

Set within the beautiful Forest of Dean, this hilly half is a stunner. Admire the gorgeous end-of-summer foliage as you run on way-marked forest trails (with just a few short road sections).

HTTP://PURPLEPATCHRUNNING.COM/

HTTP://WWW.BTRLIVERPOOL.COM/

HTTP://WWW.FORESTOFDEAN-HALFMARATHON.CO.UK/INDEX.PHP

CHEDDAR GORGE HALF-MARATHON, CHEDDAR, SOMERSET

GREAT NORTH RUN, NEWCASTLE, TYNE AND WEAR

IKANO BANK ROBIN HOOD HALFMARATHON, NOTTINGHAM

3 September

This flat, traffic-free course has fantastic PB potential. The race takes runners out of town onto a scenic tour of the surrounding areas. This one’s good for spectators, as the two-lap course provides ample opportunities to spot runners.

10 September

10 September

24 September

10 SEPTEMBER

24 September

There’s a 600m climb simply to get to the start of this decidedly lumpy race. Expect stunning scenery and burning legs as you take on the course, which includes “Hell Steps” and a speedy descent to the finish.

A huge 56,000 runners take part in this annual event, established as one of the world’s top half-marathons. The highlights?

Running across the Tyne Bridge and an appearance from the Red Arrows.

This is a fast, flat course. Starting and finishing next to the River Trent, the new route will see you run past iconic city landmarks as well as some of the most picturesque parkland.

HTTP://WWW.RELISHRUNNINGRACES.COM/

HTTP://WWW.GREATRUN.ORG/GREAT-NORTH-RUN

HTTP://ROBINHOODHALFMARATHON.CO.UK/

CHIPPENHAM HALF-MARATHON, WILTS

GREAT BRISTOL HALF-MARATHON

WINDSOR HALF-MARATHON, BERKS

Perfect for first times or fast times, this is run over a flat road route. Starting and finishing at Chippenham Sports Club and running through the centre of town, you then head out along scenic country lanes.

Starting in Bristol’s historic harbourside, the scenic, sea-level route includes an outand-back stretch along the Portway, which sees you pass twice under Brunel’s famous Clifton Suspension Bridge.

This beautiful half is set all on roads across a hilly course. Starting on the Long Walk, with Windsor Castle as a backdrop, you will complete three laps of Windsor Great Park before returning to the castle.

HTTP://WWW.CHIPPENHAMHALFMARATHON.CO.UK/DEFAULT.ASPX

HTTP://WWW.GREATRUN.ORG/GREAT-BRISTOL-HALF-MARATHON

HTTPS://WWW.RUNWINDSOR.COM/

10 September

womensrunninguk.co.uk

17 September

24 September

JULY 2017

65

Chatsworth (North)

Windsor (South)

Sunday 9th July 2017

Sunday 17th Sept 2017

The most beautiful 10K run you’ll do this year

SIGN UP TODAY

vitalitymove.co.uk

SPORTS

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

PERKINS GREAT EASTERN RUN, PETERBOROUGH, CAMBRIDGESHIRE

HTTP://WWW.PERKINSGREATEASTERNRUN.CO.UK/

SOLENT HALF-MARATHON, HOLBURY, HAMPSHIRE

LLOYDS BANK CARDIFF HALFMARATHON

ROYAL PARKS FOUNDATION HALFMARATHON, LONDON

This multi-terrain race winds through the New Forest and along the Solent shore, which affords great sea views. Pre- and post-race massage top off a great package.

The scenic, speedy route starts at Cardiff Castle before taking in the glorious Penarth Marina, crossing the barrage and heading to Cardiff Bay. A lap of beautiful Roath Park Lake tops it off.

This leafy route weaves through four of London’s eight Royal Parks – Hyde Park, Green Park, St James’s Park and Kensington Gardens. City racing has never been so green!

HTTP://WWW.CARDIFFHALFMARATHON.CO.UK/

HTTP://ROYALPARKSHALF.COM/

BOURNEMOUTH HALF-MARATHON, DORSET

AVIEMORE HALF-MARATHON, HIGHLAND

24 September

HTTP://HARDLEYRUNNERS.CO.UK/

GREAT CUMBRIAN RUN, CARLISLE, CUMBRIA 1 October

Starting from the magnificent Carlisle Castle, this race cuts through the city centre then heads out into the countryside and through the picturesque villages of Cumwhinton, Wetheral and Scotby.

HTTP://CUMBRIANRUN.CO.UK/

1 October

8 October

15 October

Part of the Bournemouth Marathon Festival weekend, this is coastal running at its best. Following the route of the full marathon, the race takes in both Boscombe and Bournemouth piers.

The Cairngorm Mountains make a spectacular backdrop for this race that starts 1,100ft above sea level. Following forest tracks through the beautiful Glenmore Forest Park, the final stretch follows roads to a welcoming finish line.

8 October

HTTPS://WWW.BOURNEMOUTHMARATHON.COM/

HTTP://AVIEMOREHALFMARATHON.ORG/

BANK OF SCOTLAND GREAT SCOTTISH RUN, GLASGOW

VITALITY OXFORD HALF-MARATHON

This family-friendly weekend should be on your to-do list. As well as the half, which starts in George Square, there is also a 10K plus, on “Super Saturday”, there’s a family run, junior race and toddler dash.

This traffic-free course around the famous university city is pretty inspiring. You’ll pass the track where Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile and see the dreaming spires, before a stadium finish.

THE POPPY HALF-MARATHON, BEXHILLON-SEA, EAST SUSSEX

HTTP://GREATSCOTTISHRUN.COM/

HTTP://OXFORDHALF.CO.UK/

1 October

8 October

11 November

Road closures and a flat route give you a great chance of achieving a PB at this seafront half. The multi-lap event makes it a great one for spectator support.

HTTP://POPPYHALF.CO.UK/

© TERRY HARRIS

8 October

One of the fastest-growing half-marathons in the UK, this is a fast, flat road race, ideal if you fancy your chances at a PB! Following a historic city-centre route, runners get to experience the best of the city, as well as fantastic support from the locals. With a super goody bag on offer, plus entertainment along the way, it’s a great-value, great-atmosphere race.

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10 September 2017 Denbies Wine Estate, Dorking, Surrey

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Stunning North Down course Six food and wine-sampling stations On-course music and entertainment Free post-race hog-roast

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

BAXTERS LOCH NESS MARATHON, INVERNESS 24 September

With an atmospheric start in the highlands at a location between Fort Augustus and Foyers, this stunning route sees runners drop down to the banks of Loch Ness and follow the south-eastern shore along to the northern tip of the loch. After such a breathtakingly beautiful race, the finish will take you into the heart of Inverness, where fantastic crowd support and a hot meal awaits.

HTTP://WWW.LOCHNESSMARATHON.COM/

GRAND UNION CANAL HALF-MARATHON, UXBRIDGE, LONDON

THE WALES MARATHON, TENBY, PEMBROKESHIRE

CAUSEWAY COAST MARATHON, COUNTY ANTRIM, NORTHERN IRELAND

This flat, scenic, multi-terrain pointto-point race takes you from Cowley Recreation Ground, Uxbridge, along the Grand Union Canal to Cassiobury Park, Watford. It can get muddy – get stuck in!

This hilly route takes runners along closed roads and out to Pembroke Castle. The views are impressive (the stretch heading down to Manorbier is a highlight), so take them in to take your mind off the inclines!

This dramatic off-road, multi-terrain, hilly race will really test your fitness. Expect to see wide bays, sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, and to pass close to the world-famous Giant’s Causeway.

HTTP://PURPLEPATCHRUNNING.COM/INDEX.PHP

HTTP://THEWALESMARATHON.COM/

HTTP://WWW.26EXTREME.COM

CONWY HALF-MARATHON, CONWY

IAG GUERNSEY WATERFRONT MARATHON, ST PETER PORT, GUERNSEY

JERSEY MARATHON, JERSEY

12 November

19 November

Setting off along the quayside in front of Conwy Castle, the route runs out towards Llandudno Pier, taking in views of the Isle of Anglesey, Puffin Island and the North Wales coastline. Simply stunning!

HTTPS://WWW.RUNWALES.COM/

ST MAGNUS MARATHON, KIRKWALL, ORKNEY 2 July

The UK’s most northerly marathon starts from St Magnus Cathedral, then the route takes runners through a course with plenty of gradient changes, but the reward is some wonderful coastal scenery.

HTTPS://WWW.ENTRYCENTRAL.COM/ST-MAGNUS-MARATHON

9 July

23 September

1 October

Starting and finishing at the waterfront in St Peter Port, this stunning race takes you along some of Guernsey’s most picturesque roads and lanes, past an array of sandy bays and inlets. Beautiful!

This niche marathon has a professional yet friendly atmosphere. Measuring only nine by five miles, Jersey is steeped in history with an unspoilt coastline and beautiful sandy beaches. Runners can expect huge support – and a couple of inclines.

HTTP://WWW.GUERNSEYMARATHON.GG/

HTTP://WWW.JERSEY-MARATHON.COM/HOME

PURBECK MARATHON, SWANAGE, DORSET

CANCER RESEARCH UK RACE FOR LIFE MARATHON, LONDON

This mostly off-road marathon comprises more than 2,000ft of climbing. It takes in the Jurassic Coast Path, pretty villages, the Purbeck Hills and Corfe Castle.

The UK’s first women-only marathon follows the Lee Valley, skirting lakes and countryside. A rare chance to run a marathon in tranquil park surroundings.

HTTP://THEPURBECKRUNNINGFESTIVAL.CO.UK/

HTTPS://RACEFORLIFE.CANCERRESEARCHUK.ORG/

27 August

17 September

8 October

Peterborough City Council presents

Organised by

Principal sponsor

L VE RUNNING L VE CHALLENGE

Sunday 8 October 2017 One of the UK’s fastest half marathons

TOENT DA ER Y!

Perkins Great Eastern Run

Flat and historic city centre route • Great for a personal best time Fantastic spectator support • Family entertainment and more

www.perkinsgreateasternrun.co.uk Perkins Great Eastern Run Title charity

Media Partner

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Half Marathon 10:30am

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FOR OUTSTANDING RACE MANAGEMENT

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

SPARTAN RACE, NATIONWIDE

Various dates

Run a Sprint (3-5 miles), Super (8-10 miles), Beast (12-14 miles) or Hurricane Heat (roughly 20K) – the choice of challenge is yours!

Integrating obstacles with some tough natural terrain, these events will test your strength and stamina, but will also see you build bonds as you help your fellow Spartans along the course.

Every course is unique… Although you can expect to get very wet and muddy at them all!

HTTPS://WWW.SPARTAN.COM/EN

MBNA CHESTER MARATHON, CHESHIRE 8 October

This multi-award winning event starts and finishes in the heart of historic Chester and takes you on a scenic countryside route that covers 19 miles in England, and seven in Wales. With great support, top organisation, and a friendly vibe, we can see why runners rave about this race.

SPIRES & STEEPLES CHALLENGE, LINCOLN TO SLEAFORD 15 October

This multi-terrain, undulating run attracts everyone from club athletes to walkers.

It follows the Arts & Heritage Trail from Lincoln Castle to the National Centre for Craft & Design in Sleaford.

AUTUMN SHAKESPEARE MARATHON, STRATFORD-UPON-AVON, WARWICKSHIRE 11 November

This course is a PB-chaser’s dream: with multiple 5K laps that are flat and smooth, and your crew can see you several times, meaning more morale-boosting cheers.

HTTP://WWW.1LIFE.CO.UK/SPIRESANDSTEEPLESCHALLENGE

HTTP://WWW.RACEWAYS.EU/SITE/

ISLE OF WIGHT MARATHON, COWES

BEACHY HEAD MARATHON, EASTBOURNE, EAST SUSSEX

PORTSMOUTH COASTAL WATERSIDE MARATHON, HAMPSHIRE

Going strong since 1957, this marathon is the longest running in the UK. The singlelap race, set along quiet, undulating roads to the west of the island, will take you through both town and rural settings.

One of the biggest off-road marathons in the UK, this challenging 26.2-miler is popular for its super-scenic and hilly route through the South Downs. The notorious uphill start will take your breath away!

A race with a catch: take longer than the six-hour cut-off on the out-and-back route and you might get wet, due to tide times.

There’s mulled wine afterwards, though!

HTTP://WWW.RYDEHARRIERS.CO.UK/

HTTP://WWW.BEACHYHEADMARATHON.CO.UK/

MARATHON-2015/

PLUSNET YORKSHIRE MARATHON, YORK

SNOWDONIA MARATHON, LLANBERIS, GWYNEDD (SOLD OUT)

CANCER RESEARCH UK RACE FOR LIFE PRETTY MUDDY, NATIONWIDE

This awesome route encircles Snowdon and sees you climb the Llanberis Pass (1,100ft) and Bwlch y Groes (1,200ft). The pay-off ? Great hospitality – and views.

These muddy 5K obstacle races just for the girls will see you leaping over hay bales, crawling through tunnels and wading through muddy bogs to reach the finish.

HTTP://WWW.SNOWDONIAMARATHON.CO.UK/

HTTPS://RACEFORLIFE.CANCERRESEARCHUK.ORG/

HTTP://WWW.ACTIVELEISUREEVENTS.CO.UK/MARATHON

8 October

8 October

Claiming to be flatter and faster than London, Paris, Berlin and Chicago, this could be one for your next PB. The route takes you past the city’s historic sites and out into the glorious countryside nearby.

HTTP://THEYORKSHIREMARATHON.COM/

28 October

28 October

17 December

HTTP://WWW.FITPROROB.BIZ/PORTSMOUTH-COASTAL-WATERSIDE-

Various dates

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

REEBOK RAGNAR WHITE CLIFFS RELAY, MAIDSTONE, KENT 23-24 September

America’s largest relay series is coming to the UK for the first time with this 24-hour relay challenge. You’ll need a group of 10 to run, so gather your running buddies and sign up for this epic running adventure from Maidstone to Brighton. Team captains get a free pair of Reebok running shoes – so don’t be afraid to take the lead.

HTTPS://WWW.RUNRAGNAR.UK/

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION MAJOR SERIES, NATIONWIDE

CONTI THUNDER RUN 24HR, WALTONON-TRENT, DERBYSHIRE (SOLD OUT)

With a focus on teamwork, these 5K and 10K courses are littered with all kinds of obstacles, hills, mud and water – and 40 of the Major’s finest troops will be on hand to help you out. No mud, no glory!

Test your tactics, endurance, speed and mental strength at this 24-hour relay. Set over an off-road 10K course, it’s a tough but rewarding experience. Take part as part of a team or as a solo runner.

HTTPS://WWW.BRITMILFIT.COM/MAJOR-SERIES/

HTTP://WWW.CONTINENTAL-TYRES.CO.UK/CAR/COMPANY/

Various dates

22-23 July

CONTIRUNNING

TOUGH MUDDER Various dates

Are you tough enough? These hardcore 10- to 12-mile events are designed to test your strength, stamina, mental grit and camaraderie. It isn’t just for grown-ups– kids (aged 7-12 years-old) will love taking part in the Mini Mudder.

SNOWDONIA OUTDOOR FESTIVAL, GWYNEDD

AUTUMN WOLF RUN, WARWICKSHIRE 2-3 September

The 10K Wolf Run is wild running. It’s set across raw, natural terrain, including woodland, thick mud and lakes, with manmade and natural obstacles. Tackle the course as a pack or as a lone wolf.

HTTP://THEWOLFRUN.COM/AUTUMNWOLF/

WHISTLESTOP TOUR OF WIRRAL, MERSEYSIDE 8-10 September

This is a new family event you won’t want to miss. Backed by the Keswick Mountain Festival team, it’s a weekend of outdoor fun, including three trail runs.

Race one, two or all three events in this mini-series. It begins with a five-mile evening run starting from Arrowe Park.

The next morning, there’s an eight-mile race at Thurstaston Country Park, then the final leg is the Wirral Half-Marathon.

HTTPS://TOUGHMUDDER.CO.UK/

HTTP://WWW.SNOWDONIA-OUTDOORFESTIVAL.CO.UK/

HTTP://WWW.BTRLIVERPOOL.COM/COPY-OF-WHISTLE-STOP-TOUR

RACE TO THE STONES, CHINNOR, OXON

RACE THE TRAIN, TYWYN, GWYNEDD

KYLES 10 MILES, SECRET COAST, ARGYLL

Follow Britain’s oldest pathway for 100K, almost entirely through Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and finishing at Avebury Stone Circle. Run or walk it in one go, or split it over two days.

With a 14-mile and 10K option, this event is unique. Taking place alongside the Talyllyn Railway, the testing route heads over lanes, un-metalled roads, tracks and farmland as you race the steam train.

Spellbinding scenery awaits at this challenging race. The route around the Ardlamont Peninsula takes runners along a secluded coastal road, taking in majestic mountains and views out towards Arran.

HTTP://WWW.RACETOTHESTONES.COM/

HTTP://RACETHETRAIN.COM/

HTTP://WWW.KYLES10MILES.CO.UK/

15-16 July

11-13 August

19 August

9 September

If you’re going to put yourself through hell, you might as well do it in heaven.

24.09.17

Marathon | 10K | 5K | Wee Nessie lochnessmarathon.com GUARANTEED MARATHON ENTRY AVAILABLE NOW

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100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

HELL UP NORTH, DELAMERE FOREST, CHESHIRE 14 October

© HELLRUNNER.CO.UK

The toughest half-marathon in the UK? We can believe it. Running off-road, and offpiste, Mother Nature conspires to challenge you to a race like no other. Get ready to tackle such delights as the Bog of Doom and the Hills of Hell before the Devil’s Disco rocks you to the finish line. It’s a hell of a half, but fans of obstacle races will be in heaven.

HTTP://HELLRUNNER.CO.UK/HELLUPNORTH/

MUDDY DOG CHALLENGE, HEVER CASTLE, KENT

HICKSTEAD GALLOP 8K FUN RUN, HICKSTEAD, SUSSEX

EASY RUNNER SODBURY SLOG, CHIPPING SODBURY, SOUTH GLOUCS

Grab your best fur-iend and prepare to get muddy for this 2.5K or 5K obstacle course.

Then head to the event village for human and canine fun – waggy tails guaranteed.

Trot around the grounds of the famous Hickstead All England racecourse.

Canter past the start three times in everincreasing loops, then gallop to the finish!

This varied nine-mile route is not a gentle trot through the countryside. Trails?

Check. Hills? Definitely! Mud, bogs and marshes? Yes, yes and yes!

HTTPS://WWW.BATTERSEA.ORG.UK/SUPPORT-US/CHALLENGES/

HTTP://WESTSUSSEXFUNRUNLEAGUE.ORG.UK

HTTP://SODBURYSLOG.CO.UK/ENTRIES.PHP

ROUND RIPON ULTRA 35, STUDLEY ROGER, NORTH YORKS

CHRISTMAS PUDDING DASH, VARIOUS LOCATIONS

This tough 35-mile multi-terrain course in the Yorkshire Dales takes you along woodland tracks and across open moorland, past a World Heritage Site, pretty villages and through Studley Royal Deer Park. Race solo or in a relay team.

If just the thought of Christmas is enough to make you feel stuffed, don’t miss this.

Turn up in festive fancy dress to make it even more special, and enjoy a Christmas pud and mulled wine at the finish. Perfect!

30 September

8 October

12 November

MUDDY-DOG-CHALLENGE-2017

BEAR GRYLLS SURVIVAL RACE, TRENT PARK, LONDON 30 September – 1 October

Choose from the 5K, 10K or the 30K Ultimate Survivor Challenge – all with a whole lot of obstacles thrown in, though we’ve been assured the host won’t make you drink your own wee! Afterwards, party the weekend away at the Family Festival.

7 October

December 2017 – Various dates

HTTP://WWW.NICE-WORK.ORG.UK/

HTTP://GOBEYONDULTRA.CO.UK/EVENTS

HTTP://WWW.BEARGRYLLSSURVIVALRACE.COM/LONDON/

VICTORY 5, PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE

BENNACHIE HILL RACE, ABERDEENSHIRE

SIMPLY HEALTH GREAT SOUTH RUN, PORTSMOUTH, HAMPSHIRE

Race in ruggedly beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside. At just over eight miles, with a total ascent of 1,150ft, this route is breath-taking (in several ways!).

This flat 10-miler takes in some of Southsea and Portsmouth’s top sights, including Spinnaker Tower and HMS Victory. Live music will help fire you up.

This flat and fast five-mile road race, which starts and finishes at the Mountbatten Centre, takes in the Stamshaw Promenade and 1,000 Lakeside. But the real pull is PB potential over five miles – this race attracts top athletes from the UK and overseas.

HTTP://GARIOCHROADRUNNERS.COM/

HTTP://WWW.GREATRUN.ORG/GREAT-SOUTH-RUN

HTTP://ATHLETICEVENTS.CO.UK/

1 October

22 October

3 December

– r fo ear ain ew y rit d N is b se th run en lic

Maidenhead Half Marathon 9.30am Sunday 3rd September 2017

Raising money for:

FAST, FLAT & TRAFFIC FREE! Your opportunity to run a scenic half marathon on closed roads. Perfect for everyone from novices to PB-hunters.

Town centre start/finish and easy travel links by rail and A4/M4.

In association with:

Enter online at www.purplepatchrunning.com

Supported by:

Closing date for entries: 27th August 2017 The race will be run according to UKA rules and regulations. Licence number: 2017-27269

MHM Womens running Ad.indd 1 production.indd 1

08/05/2017 14:04 09:24 10/05/2017

100 BEST RACES

■5K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■OBSTACLE/ ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS

=

ROCK ’N’ ROLL DUBLIN HALF-MARATHON, DUBLIN, IRELAND 12-13 August

© RUNROCKNROLL.COM

Take in some of Dublin’s most famous sights, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and run a nice stretch along the river before you finish in picturesque Phoenix Park. As you would expect from the Rock ’n’ Roll Series, there are also live local bands en route to keep your motivation high, plus fantastic support.

HTTP://WWW.RUNROCKNROLL.COM/DUBLIN/

GRIM ORIGINAL, ALDERSHOT, HAMPSHIRE

BUFF EPIC TRAIL, AIGÜESTORTES NATIONAL PARK, SPAIN

Held at Army vehicle testing grounds, this one’s tough! Set over approximately eight miles, it will bring you trails, hills, mud, moguls, sand dunes, logs, bogs, railway tracks… And lots and lots of water!

Set in the heart of the Pyrenees, with peaks of more than 3,000ft, these challenges are for the toughest of runners.

Choose from a 21K, 42K or 105K route.

3 December

7-9 July

HTTP://BUFFEPICTRAIL.COM/

HTTP://WWW.GRIMCHALLENGE.CO.UK/

LIVERPOOL SANTA DASH, MERSEYSIDE 3 December

Prepare for a fabulously festive race! Fancy dress is a must, with runners dressing as both red and blue Santas to accommodate friendly local rivalry. There’s no age limit so the whole family can run together.

HTTP://WWW.BTRLIVERPOOL.COM/SANTA-DASH

LONDON SANTA RUN, BATTERSEA PARK 9 December

Grab your fake beard and join 2,000 other Santas for a fun 5K frolic. Your race fee includes your Santa suit, so there’s no excuse not to get dressed up! Children over seven years old can run with you.

Guaranteed to get you in the spirit!

HTTPS://WWW.209EVENTS.COM/

ULTRA-TRAIL FRENCH RIVIERA MERCANTOUR, FRANCE 25–27 AUGUST

With the glorious French Riviera as its backdrop, this exceptional course takes you from the beaches of Nice to mountain ranges of 10,000m. Run as part of a relay team to enjoy the views for half the work!

HTTP://WWW.ULTRATRAIL06.COM/2017/

NAPA TO SONOMA WINE COUNTRY HALFMARATHON, NAPA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, USA (SOLD OUT)

DANSKE BANK VILNIUS MARATHON, VILNIUS, LITHUANIA

The flagship event in the Wine Country Half-Marathon Series, this course takes you from the Cuvaison Carneros Winery, amid rows of rolling vineyards, past a wildlife preserve, ranches and farms.

Part of the biggest running festival in Lithuania, the marathon takes runners past the beautiful old town before moving past Gediminas’ Castle and Subaius Hill, where you can enjoy the best view of the city.

HTTP://DESTINATIONRACES.COM/

HTTPS://WWW.VILNIAUSMARATONAS.LT/EN

CHEVRON PERTH CITY TO SURF, PERTH, AUSTRALIA

COPENHAGEN HALF-MARATHON, DENMARK

This event attracts 40,000 runners to Australia’s west coast each year. As well as the marathon there’s a half, 12K and a 4K fun run and wheelchair event.

This course has been created to be fast with long, straight stretches, broad roads and soft curves. Cruise past sights such as the New King’s Square and Marble Church.

HTTP://PERTHCITYTOSURF.COM/

HTTPS://CPHHALF.DK/EN/

16 July

27 August

10 September

17 September

“Fantastic experience, different from all other marathons or run I’ve participated in. Rush from start to finish.

The surroundings – incredible. Just thinking about running amongst the wild and actually see them running with you is an experience that cannot be matched.”

Finisher, Big Five Marathon 2016

Petra Desert Marathon

Bagan Temple Marathon

Aug. 26, 2017

Nov. 25, 2017

Great Wall Marathon

May 19, 2018

Big Five Marathon

June 23, 2018

Polar Circle Marathon

Oct. 27-28, 2018

v

Push your limits. Achieve something extraordinary.

Five annual races. Multiple distances. Locations of exceptional beauty, historical significance and challenging terrain. Albatros Adventure Marathons will challenge even the most experienced runner. The inclusive multi-day tour package creates the perfect opportunity to share the journey with family, friends and a global gathering of runningminded spirits. Push your limits at the next Albatros Adventure Marathon!

Learn more at our website: www.albatros-adventure-marathons.com/urg

SAVE 10% production.indd 1

on your 2017 Petra Desert Marathon or Bagan Temple Marathon tour package!

Book online before 1 July 2017 with code URG172

11/05/2017 10:48

100 BEST RACES 100 BEST RACES

■5K ■5K ■10K ■10K ■HALF-MARATHONS ■HALF-MARATHON ■MARATHON ■MARATHONS■OBSTACLE/ ■OBSTACLE/ULTRA/FUN ULTRA/ FUN ■OVERSEAS ■MARATHON (OVERSEAS)

VALENCIA MARATHON, VALENCIA, SPAIN 19 November

The flat circuit in this historic city, and the mild November weather, make this the ideal event for a long-distance challenge. Running alongside the Mediterranean coastline, the route also takes in many of the architectural wonders of the city. Once you cross the finish line, reward yourself with lunch at the Paella Party as you enjoy music from live bands and a festival atmosphere.

© 2014 EXTREMEPHOTO

HTTP://WWW.VALENCIACIUDADDELRUNNING.COM/EN/

BMW BERLIN MARATHON, BERLIN, GERMANY

SSE AIRTRICITY DUBLIN MARATHON, DUBLIN, IRELAND

THE ANTARCTIC ICE MARATHON & HALFMARATHON, ANTARCTICA

One of the six World Marathon Majors, this is a spectacular event. The highlight all participants rave about? Running through the Brandenburg Gate – unforgettable.

Starting and finishing close to the city centre, this race takes in many of Dublin’s highlights and includes a stretch through leafy Phoenix Park. Expect great crowd support and perfect marathon conditions.

This race starts from the foot of the Ellsworth Mountains and presents runners with a formidable mental and physical challenge. Be prepared for temperatures of -20°C, strong winds, an altitude of 700m and tough underfoot conditions.

24 September

HTTP://WWW.BMW-BERLIN-MARATHON.COM/

29 October

HTTP://SSEAIRTRICITYDUBLINMARATHON.IE/

PALMA DE MALLORCA MARATHON, MALLORCA, SPAIN

TCS NEW YORK CITY MARATHON, USA

This event, held in the island’s capital, takes runners along the promenade of Palma bay, opposite the famous cathedral, and into the historic old town. Stay to soak up the sun afterwards!

Heading through all five of NYC’s boroughs – starting in Staten Island and finishing in Manhattan’s Central Park – this is billed as “a 26.2-mile block party through the world’s most diverse city”.

HTTP://WWW.PALMADEMALLORCAMARATHON.COM/ENGLISH/

HTTP://WWW.TCSNYCMARATHON.ORG/

TORONTO WATERFRONT MARATHON, CANADA

MARATHON DES ALPES MARITIMES NICE-CANNES, FRANCE

15 October

24 November

HTTP://ICEMARATHON.COM

5 November

BAGAN TEMPLE MARATHON, MYANMAR 25 November

For a race that will blow your mind, sign up now for this event. Myanmar is home to 2,000 sacred pagodas and temples and the marathon will take runners on a voyage of discovery through this untouched land.

HTTP://BAGAN-TEMPLE-MARATHON.COM/

22 October

5 NOVEMBER

This is a flat course ideal for those chasing a PB. Starting on University Avenue and finishing at City Hall in the heart of Toronto, the route takes in the best of the city, with on-course entertainment to boot.

Runners set off from the Albert I Garden in Nice before making their way along the French Riviera via beautiful and historic coastal towns, finishing at the Promenade de la Croisette in Cannes.

HTTP://CANADARUNNINGSERIES.COM/

HTTP://WWW.MARATHON06.COM/2017/

womensrunninguk.co.uk

REGGAE MARATHON, HALF-MARATHON & 10K, NEGRIL, JAMAICA 2 December

Run from Negril along the coast, with pulsating reggae music to keep your legs moving towards the finish line Beach Bash, where you can soak up the party vibes.

HTTP://WWW.REGGAEMARATHON.COM/

JULY 2017

77

marathon

half marathon

supersonic 10k

supernova 5k

junior races

7th/8th October 2017

running as it should be Fresh sea air and breathtaking coastal routes - come and be a part of it! enter online at

www.bournemouthmarathon.com BMF_WomensRunning_fullpage_April2017.indd 1 production.indd 1

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