We recently marked your card for pre-Christmas events, provided by the prolific race management specialists at Nice Work in the runABC South area. One of the most popular days during the winter holiday period is Boxing Day. Here's a quick review of what's on the race calendar for our demographic...

But first, what is the meaning of 'Boxing Day'? The Oxford English Dictionary provides the earliest attestation from Britain in 1743, defining it as "the day after Christmas Day" and stating that "traditionally on this day tradespeople, employees, etc., would receive presents or gratuities (a 'Christmas box') from their customers or employers."

One thing is certain: it has nothing to do with the sport of boxing! But it is the day we wrestle with the problem of Christmas gift wrapping and 'boxes' when all the waste recycling centres are closed! So why not put that off for another day, unbox your shiny new trail shoes and head off to warm your cockles by supporting a local race and perhaps a charitable cause at the same time?

Dip into the runABC South race listing, and you'll find several chances to get active and start to burn off those Christmas calories...

The Devils Punch Bowl Boxing Day Run in Surrey is a tough 3.5 miles over the Hindhead Commons, featuring climbs of Gibbet Hill and the Devils Punch Bowl. The 'Drinking Run', with a pint of winter ale at two miles, is full but spaces are still available for the 'Dry Run'. All the proceeds go to the Holy Cross Hospital, Haslemere.

The Saltwood Boxing Day Run has been going strong in Kent for 49 years. Described as: "The challenging run is three miles of mud and hills – the perfect hangover cure. The off-road course uses the footpaths, fields and trails in and around Saltwood and is suitable for both experienced runners and beginners alike." This charity run often attracts a huge entry of 1,000 runners.

The Crown to Crown Boxing Day Run in Basildon is another long-established and popular race attracting runners from across Essex and London. The course is a measured 5K, undulating trail and road route, challenging in parts, yet picturesque around the Essex Wildlife Trust's Willow Park. Entries are less than £5 and are available on the day as well as in advance.

More Boxing Day races in Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Suffolk and Somerset are posted in our comprehensive runABC South race listing here.

Photo of Crown to Crown Boxing Day Run start courtesy of Pitsea Running Club on Facebook