Go Beyond Challenges are behind many popular races taking place in Northamptonshire (and beyond), one of their best known is the Rose of the Shires Ultra which is a 54 mile event through the picturesque county. In a bid to include more runners, this year's event on 6 April will also include a marathon distance alongside the ultra - it will be called the Rosebud Marathon.

Speaking about their decision, organisers told us: "We were concerned that not enough people were enjoying the tour around our amazing county town, so we have created the opportunity to enjoy the last 26.2 miles of the ultra marathon through country trails, roads and towpath."

The marathon will start in Ashton Road, Hartwell and finish at Brixworth Country Park just outside of Northampton in a wonderful central location. The route is 14 miles of cross country trails; 10.4 miles of roads; and 1.8 miles of canal tow path.

The route takes in the beautiful Northamptonshire countryside with the Grand Union Canal and 14 pretty villages, towns and hamlets following parts of the Nene Way, the Midshires Way and the Northampton Round.

Brixworth Country Park provides plenty of room for parking, and is only 20 minutes drive from the M1 motorway. There will be two checkpoints at roughly 9.8 miles and 7.7 miles, and runners will also experience support from the local running community. The event is fully tracked and interactive so friends and family will be able to follow progress from the comfort of their armchairs!

If you'd like to know more, visit the Go Beyond Challenge website.

Image: Go Beyond Challenge