Heart of the Wolds Cycle Sportive

If you’re planning out next year’s cycle calendar, make sure to add in Yorkshire’s best.

The Heart of the Wold’s Cycle Sportive, being held on 23 April 2017, offers something for riders across all experience levels, with spectacular scenery to soak in along the way.

This event offers three different routes; The Langtoft Loop is the shortest of them at 37km, designed for fitness families and newbie cyclists. You’ll be taken through Kilham, and Langtoft before tackling the route’s major climb, testing stamina and offering incredible views from the top. Middle of the road is The Classic at 100km, with cyclists facing severe climbs and descents just past Sledmere, before heading on through Thixendale and Millington – this one offers a challenge for riders of most abilities. The longest route on offer is The Challenge at 134km, doing exactly as it says by offering 1,200 metres of climbing alongside a regular series of ascents and descents. After completing the route of both the Langtoft Loop and the Classic, you’ll head on for an extra 50km through Warter, North Dalton and Sledmere.

All cyclists can expect a hearty meal on return, with teas and coffees beforehand. Full timing facilities will be provided for all those keeping track of their progress. This is definitely one to include in next year’s cycle diary.

Find out more by visiting www.woldssportive.co.uk

New Year’s Day Dirt Run, Worcestershire

The guys behind Dirt Run are back again, offering a great yet grubby way to start off 2017.

The New Year’s Day Dirt Run, held in conjunction with The National Trust, Heart of England Forest and The Forestry Commission, promises stunning scenery, family-friendly fun and a little charitable giving to top it all off.

Showing off Worcestershire’s finest landscaping, and giving history buffs something to enjoy, the event will be held at the grounds of Croome Court, designed by architect Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Those looking to join in for the mud fest can choose between a 5k or 10k route, while the younger ones can sign up for the Junior Race of 2.8km. Runners can expect neatly landscaped gardens – with its bridges and tunnels – and the mixed terrain of the parklands. Kicking off at 9am, competitors will receive finish line goodies and a medal once they’ve completed the course. There’s also category prizes on offer, including Terne Valley Brewery real ale – exactly what’s needed after a morning run!

The event will also be raising funds for St Richards Hospice;
£1 from every entry fee will be sent to the charity, with additional opportunity to donate given when booking. The grounds will be fully accessible to all those attending, including the cafe, shop and playground. An awesome way to see in the new year with the family.

Find out more by visiting www.pulsepursuits.co.uk

The Mighty Deerstalker, Innerleithen

Calling all northern night owls and cult run enthusiasts, the UK’s biggest night race is happening again, along the Scottish Borders.

The Mighty Deerstalker, from the organisers of the infamous Rat Race, will be taking place on 11 March 2017 at Innerleithen, and promises to be one almighty challenge.

Spanning 10km, competitors will be sent across rivers, through forests and over a couple of mountains as they delve into the low temperatures of a March evening. Choose between the ‘Half Stalker’ or – for those looking to prove their worth – the ‘Full Stalker’, keeping in mind that you’ll have the plenty of chance to bail on the Full half way through. After the race, the fun is enhanced with the Mighty Beerstalker Party, held in a giant heated tent on site. Expect delicious grub, strong ales, tune-busting bands and the possibility for a little crowdsurfing, as you celebrate your wins. Camping is available on site, and access to the party is included with every entry. Camping tickets include a free bacon roll and pint the morning after – no better way to wake.

If all of that is just not enough, entry will also include a free Tech Tee, Rat Rag, medal, finisher photo and full electronic timing access for those looking to beat a personal record. The course itself will be fully marked, with a live MC to keep you going. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend an evening.

Find out more by visiting ratrace.com/mightydeerstalker

Glow in the Park, Saturday 8 April 2017, Windsor

The ultimate neon fun run is happening in Windsor, featuring the Foam Zone, UV Paint Blast Zone and Time Tunnel. Welcoming those of all ages and abilities, to dance, run or walk through all six of the glow zones after the sun goes down. Bright clothing encouraged.

www.glowinthepark.co.uk

East Coast Triathlon, 22/23 April 2017

A weekend-long triathlon featuring a 250-metre pool swim, a 3km run along the promenade and a 16km cycle along the sea front. Expect brilliant scenery along the Great Yarmouth coast, chip-timing and finisher medals.

www.eastcoasttriathlon.com

Avon Valley Railway Race, Saturday 4 February 2017

A 10km and 4km multi-terrain route along the Bristol-to-Bath Railway Path. Expect wooded trails, spectacular countryside and views of the Bath Skyline. Suitable for runners of all abilities and perfect for fitness-enthusiastic families.

www.aspirerunningevents.co.uk

The Oner Ultra Trail Run, 8-9 April 2017

A serious challenge for all those taking part, this event offers 82 miles of trail running along the world famous Jurassic coastline in Dorset. With over 10,000ft of ascent and a strict 24-hour time limit, you’ll have a mighty task on hand with this one.

www.brutalevents.co.uk