Fun races to enter in 2017
If you’re looking for a new challenge, why not enter some fun races for 2017? Here’s five events with a difference to try your hand at next year.
The Vertical Rush (March 9)
If you like running anywhere, how about powering up the stairs of Tower 42, London’s original skyscraper? This event in aid of homeless charity Shelter takes in 42 flights or 932 steps to be precise. Sounds fun. And unless the steps come with giant numbers on I’d estimate you’ll forget how many you’ve gone up by the time you reach about 50 and the thigh burn kicks in. More info
The Mighty Deerstalker (March 11)
Scotland’s biggest night run takes place in Edinburgh. Just the name of the event alone is enough to conjure up excitement.
The organisers bill the event as: “Probably the hardest off-road-Tweed-clad-pipe-lit-plus-four-and-headtorch-wearing run that exists”. That’s a bold statement. And by the looks of the video above it’s a fun one to attempt. Team and individual entries are available, with pricing ranging from ?50-65 depending on how early you sign up. More info
Eastbourne Trackstar Marathon (May 14)
This fun race has definite appeal. It’s marathon distance (26.2 miles) but not as you know it as the event takes place round an athletics running track. If you can convince yourself 105.5, 400m laps doesn’t sound quite as bad as 26.2miles, you’re a better man than me. But you’ll need to get a move on as the race has a seven-hour cut-off point, probably when the meter runs out on the stadium floodlights. More info
The Mozart 100 (June 17)
“The hills are alive with the sound of … running”. For runners keen to embrace their cultural side, these fun races in Salzburg, Austria may be the answer. There’s plenty of events to choose from, all come with a beautiful Austrian backdrop. More info
Introduction to the Italian Alps (June 23-25)
This two-day trail running package takes in 20 miles (32km) and is led by qualified Lead Runners. It’s located in the town of Courmayeur, in northern Italy, which lies in a valley beneath Monte Bianco. The price is high at ?750 but will more than cover the great experience you’ll have. Oh, and there’s a Champagne finish … More info