Ed: I normally give cross country a go each winter, focusing on the main events i.e county, regional & national champs that are open to all registered club runners. Does cross country interest you? Read on…

Would anyone like to represent the VRUK in any of the main senior events this season? The three English regions (Northern, Midlands & South), Scotland and Wales hold championship events that are open to all club runners registered with their respective home country. There are also separate dates for Masters Championships (over 35) in some areas. Both senior & masters events have separate events for men and women. To represent VRUK in these events you would need to be a 1st claim member otherwise represent your local club. With the exception of Masters events, entries would need to be via the club hence the reason for publicity. Closing dates for most events are usually several weeks in advance especially for events after Christmas and will let you know when details are received or if you have expressed interest.

Dates of Events
If you are interested or need questions answered please get in contact. An opportunity for a different experience if you have not done cross country before or since schooldays. Off-road or cross country shoes are recommended to perform to your potential especially in heavy conditions.

5 Nov Scottish Athletics 4K Champs, Bellahouston Park, Glasgow

19 Nov. South of England London Champs, Parliament Hill, Hampstead Heath (closing date 4 Nov)

19 Nov. Midland Counties Men’s 7M & Women’s 5M Champs, Wolverhampton

26 Nov. Scottish Athletics North District Champs, Forres

10 Dec South of England Masters Champs, Lloyd’s Park, Croydon (closing date 18 Nov)

10 Dec North-East of England Champs, East Cramlington Nature Reserve

10 Dec Scottish Athletics East District Champs, Aberdeen

10 Dec Scottish Athletics West Distict Champs, tbc

12 Jan English County Champs, various venues & maybe other dates

28 Jan South of England Senior Champs, Stanmer Park, Brighton (closing date 16 Dec)

28 Jan Midland Counties Senior Champs, Nottingham

28 Jan North of England Senior Champs, Pontefract

4 Feb Scottish National Masters Champs, Kilmarnock

18 Feb Scottish National Senior Champs, Callendar Park, Falkirk

25 Feb English National Senior Champs, Parliament Hill, Hampstead Heath

Welsh XC Champs not yet listed on website.

There are lots of other cross country events on the national & regional websites plus counties & leagues.