Most races begin with a countdown. Dalby Dash 10K begins rather differently.

When runners gather in Dalby Forest on Remembrance Sunday, 8 November, they will first observe a two minute silence in memory of servicemen and women. The race then starts at 11:02am, turning that moment of reflection into one of North Yorkshire's most distinctive autumn running events.

Staged entirely by volunteers in association with Pickering Running Club, the Dalby Dash also raises money for Pickering Rotarians, veterans charity Rock2Recovery and Scarborough and Ryedale Mountain Rescue Team. Last year's race generated £6,000 for its charities.

The running is pretty special too. Starting outside Dalby Forest Visitor Centre at Low Dalby, the 10K initially heads uphill on the firm tarmac of Housedale. It is the only significant climb of the race and brings an additional challenge, with the first man and woman reaching the top crowned King and Queen of the Hill.

From there the character changes. Runners follow gravel trails along the top of the rigg before beginning a long, fast descent towards the beck. The final section provides the race with its name as competitors make their last dash back towards the finish at Low Dalby.

It is a combination that has earned the event recognition well beyond North Yorkshire, with Trail Running Magazine previously listing the Dalby Dash among Britain's most beautiful races.

There is another nice touch for supporters. The organisers cover the forest vehicle entry toll for competitors, allowing runners to bring family along and make a day of their visit to Dalby.

Fast forest trails, a community run entirely by volunteers and thousands of pounds raised for good causes would already make Dalby Dash noteworthy. Beginning it with two minutes of collective remembrance gives this 10K a character entirely its own.

Entries are availabe now via the runABC race hub.

Image courtesy Dalby Dash 10K on Facebook.