The festive season is on its way and so is the 19th Newcastle Dales Dash on Sunday 4 December at 11am. Run 5(ish) miles on a multi-terrain course in Apedale Country Park and enjoy the views across North Staffordshire and Cheshire before being rewarded with a medal and water. 

It wouldn’t be an off-road race without hills and there are a fair few of ‘em at the Dales Dash especially at the start and finish. There is nothing to beat a good climb and a test of your fitness levels and leg strength as you run through Apedale and Lymedale with other trail devotees on limestone, tracks, grass and tarmac.

Consideration needs to be given to the type of shoe (and the grip!) and care taken whilst running to avoid any falls. The experienced marshals will warn runners of any problem areas on the course along with providing friendly encouragement to the finish. 

The event is organised by Newcastle (Staffs) AC and hosted by Staffordshire County Council Ranger Service at Apedale Community Country Park on Loomer Road, Chesterton.

The prizes include four ‘Margaret Barker’ trophies which are awarded to the women’s winner; first Newcastle (Staffs) AC female; first U16 Girl and first U16 Boy (open). These trophies are a tribute to the late Margaret Barker from her friends at the athletics club and Apedale Heritage Centre. Other prizes are for the top three men and women and age group winners. 

Entry fees are £15.50 and £13.50 – a reasonable price in these challenging times.

For more information and entry, visit the Newcastle (Staffs) AC website. 

Image courtesy of Bryan Dale (Race Photos).