It's time to turn up the heat on your autumn running plans. And as the weather becomes colder making a date with Perthshire's super spicy Chilli Trail Race will let you do just that!

Organised by Five Star Run Club (also responsible for the highly successful Auchterarder Running Festival) this spicy offering will take place on 4 November with runners setting off from Auchterarder with a route that pierces into the foothills of the Ochils. This 10K trail course covers a variety of surfaces and promises views to die for.

But what is it that makes this event so… hot? A Five Star Events spokesperson says: “A close look at the GPS map of the route will give you all a big clue, what you will see is the distinctive shape of a Chilli Pepper!!"

That’s not to say the course itself isn’t hot, runners are promised forest trails, steady uphills and exhilarating downhills and even a couple of stream crossings. Organisers think their 'Chilli Route' has it all. And invite anyone keen to 'come see for yourself and experience the hottest trail race on the planet'.

In 2022 the women's race was won by Mary McCutcheon in 47:04 while the men's winner was Jonny Wolf in 40:30. Speaking after the race Mary commented: "Thanks for a really well organised race. Special thanks to the marshals who did a brilliant job and were so cheery despite the weather. Loved the run."

Aside from the fantastic trail route, runners receive a snood and bespoke Chilli Trail Race 2023 medal. There is always a competition for the first locals over the finish line too and last year these titles were claimed by Mark Smith (45:44) and Jennifer Tramontanas (50:16) - both are pictured above.

Organisers have said they will bring those taking part regular 'mud updates' near race day to make sure that the right choices are made regarding footwear! You can find all these updates on the Five Star Run Club Facebook page here.

If you'd like to know more, visit the entry website here.

Image: Five Star Running Facebook