Cross country is a really fun running event and can be as competitive as you want it.

What other sport offers a battle through rivers, hilly fields and a fight to the finish covered head-to-toe in mud?

It could almost be an assault course, or even a hippopotamus relay race.

It's where Paula Radcliffe learned her trade.

These races are often run as a team event - so it's a great way to have some fun with your friends.

And there are plenty of races across the whole of the country that you can now take part in and get a taste of the action.

One set of races worth considering is the Reebok Cross Challenge Series. They're for all ages and take place all round Britain during the winter.

For all the latest details on this and other activities, check out the UK Athletics website in the 'events' section at

You'll also find info on what nights the clubs train and how to get there.

So get your trainers ready and prepare for a bubbly bath to wash all that dirt off.

Muddy lovely.

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