The Scott Sports Dirty Dozen (now in it's 12th year) is a one of a kind trail running event around Cannock Chase. No other events in the area (other than the organiser's own Trail Half Marathon maybe) use anything like the kind of trails included in the course. This is a "real" trail running experience.

In 2025 the race is set to take place on Saturday 22 February with organisers saying: "Quite simply it's a proper trail running event. We're really lucky to have Cannock Chase on our doorstep and we think think it's the perfect location for trail running. We've got lots of hills (up and down), hard stone tracks, muddy single track sections and the Ditch Of Doom water section (dry route round for those made of sugar). The course we put together includes bits of everything whilst also taking runners off the beaten track."

This is 12K of natural trails on the chase. Don't expect any walls to climb over or barbed wire to go under. No boring grass farmers fields. This is a trail run in one of the most beautiful areas in the country filled with fantastic natural trails that make the area such a destination site. The course is challenging and exhilarating at the same time.

Don't take our word for it, we'll let some previous entrants have their say: "Quite simply the best trail running event in the area. So much fun and I never even knew those trails even existed." and "Love this event! Challenging and fun terrain, the hills, the trails and even a dip in the water – perfect to let your hair down and just run!"

Kids are as much part of the event as the adults giving the whole family a chance to have a go. For Under 14's the course will be approx 2.5K long and include similar sections to the adults course but slightly less technical. Organisers are happy for parents to join the children on course and run round with them if required. All will receive a little prize and a medal on completion.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Dirty Dozen website.

Image: Dirty Dozen