Runners looking for something a little different to start the year can take part in the Bare Wrist Race, a five mile New Year’s Day run organised by Stafford Harriers and held on 1 January. Known formally as Vernon’s Limp Wrist Race, the event does away with clock watching and instead challenges participants to run as close as possible to their own predicted finishing time.

Often described as the perfect hangover cure, the concept is simple but surprisingly tricky. Runners estimate how long they think the five mile course will take them to complete, then attempt to match that time as closely as possible. The twist is that no timepieces are allowed, so watches and GPS devices must be left at home and competitors run with a bare wrist. Prizes are awarded to the ten runners whose finishing times are closest to their predictions, with a celebratory drink waiting afterwards.

Organisers say: "The race is open to runners from near and far, as well as friends and family, and is designed to be an enjoyable and inclusive way to welcome in the New Year. Our race HQ is Stafford Rugby Club, providing a sociable hub for the day’s festivities."

The Bare Wrist Race is organised in memory of Vernon Olivant and Mike Jones, with all profits donated to Katharine House Hospice. The event has strong charitable roots, with the original race first staged on 1 January 2003 by Vernon Olivant as part of his Stupid Heroes League. For many years the organisation, entry processing and results were handled by Mike and Carol Jones. Stafford Harriers were due to take over the organisation in 2021, although that year was affected by covid.

If you'd like to know, visit the Stafford Harriers website.

Image: Stafford Harriers