How Far Do You Fancy Running?
Dormouse Challenge returns to Salcey Forest on 20 November with a six-hour format where runners decide whether their day means one lap, a marathon or an ultra...
This relates to: Dormouse Challenge
How far would you run if nobody told you when to stop?
That is essentially the question waiting at the Dormouse Challenge when Big Bear Events returns to Salcey Forest on Friday 20 November.
Rather than choosing a conventional distance before entering, runners have six hours and a 3.5-mile off-road forest loop. Complete one lap and call it a day, keep circulating towards a Half Marathon or Marathon, or continue into ultra territory. The decision can be made while the event is actually unfolding.
The format means runners and walkers with very different ambitions share the same course. Big Bear describes it as particularly useful for anyone attempting to run further than ever before, completing a long training run or simply enjoying a sociable day on the trails.
Those trails contain no asphalt. The course uses well-maintained crushed stone paths and open forest floor, with narrower sections capable of becoming muddy and slippery if November weather intervenes. Canicross runners are welcome too.
The aid station provides another incentive to keep returning, with mince pies and treats waiting as each lap brings runners back around.
There is even a choice at the finish. Runners can take the event medal or opt for a Big Bear Tree Token, which funds tree planting and contains wildflower seeds to grow at home.
From one lap to more than 50 miles, Dormouse Challenge makes the distance entirely personal. The hardest question might simply be whether to go around again.
