Why not make your new year's resolution a few months early this year with a promise to push yourself that bit further in 2025. And by that bit further, we are talking an ultra event! Of course, if you're going to take on such a big challenge then it's best to do so with an event that has already proved itself on the ultra scene, an event like the Falkirk Ultra Race.

2025's race will be its eighth edition and will take place on 9 February at Falkirk's Callendar Park in Falkirk. Organisers say: "Our Ultra Race is suitable for both experienced and novice ultra runners and is a good opportunity to gauge your training and fitness for the year ahead.

"We started this event with the aim for anyone who would like to either race as many miles as possible within seven hours or if you had a specific goal to be able to take part without the pressure of any cut off times. So if you have never run an ultra, half marathon, a full marathon or any other targets like run a 50K, you can do so at our event and we won't judge."

Indeed, many previous competitors have raced at the event and simply run a half marathon and stopped as that was their target. Any time or distance spent on our route is an achievement and you will be rewarded with a medal no matter how many miles you run.

The main race loop is 4.089 miles long and the majority of it is run on forest trails and tracks with a small part on tarmac and a short grassy section. There will be a smaller loop of around 800m for the last hour and it us on this lap that every metre counts!

Speaking about the weather, organisers say: "The weather can be anything from sunshine, rain, hailstones, snow, frozen and/or muddy paths. We have seen everything over the past few years!"

Entry gets you access to the athlete's village where you can pitch up your tent, gazebo, campervan or even just a table and a chair with all your gear to get you through the day.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Falkirk Ultra Race Facebook page.

Image: Falkirk Ultra Facebook