Thrill seeking early birds are invited to sign up to take on the dirtiest of challenges as Muddy Mayhem returns.
Last autumn, almost 1,000 people traversed the ultimate obstacle course and faced freezing ice waters, took on tunnels and conquered cargo nets in the beautiful surroundings of Durham County Council’s Hardwick Park.
Now entries are open for this year’s event, which will take place on Sunday 30 September.
Cllr Ossie Johnson, Cabinet member for tourism, culture, leisure, and rural affairs, said: “Hardwick Park is a well-loved favourite in County Durham, with thousands of visitors every year.
“This event not only benefits from the beauty of the park as its backdrop, but combines outdoor exercise with fun to make a great day out.
“We hope to welcome many more people taking up the challenge in September, enjoying themselves and tackling the course’s obstacles.”
Muddy Mayhem began as a small 2.5km event in 2012, but has grown to become something quite unique in the obstacle course run world.
The event, which is for those aged 16 or over, draws inspiration from horse trial courses, motocross tracks, rock climbing centres, military obstacle courses and adventure playgrounds to create a 5km loop packed with over 40 man-made and natural challenges, which some runners take on twice to complete a 10K run.
Ross Carrick, Durham County Council’s senior parks and countryside ranger, said: “Muddy Mayhem is in its seventh year now and every year we try to make it bigger and better.
“We’re already planning the obstacles, keeping people’s favourites and imagining new ways to challenge the runners. Not forgetting making it even muddier.”
“I’d say to anyone looking for a challenge with a difference to book up now and come and join the fun.”
Early bird places are available for a limited time, at £38 for the 5K course and £43 for the 10K.
Runners set off in waves, with the first group scheduled to begin at 10am and the last starting at 2pm.
For more information or to sign up visit www.durham.gov.uk/muddymayhem or e-mail muddymayhemenquiries@durham.gov.uk