A favourite in many a runner’s diary, the Sandstone Trail Races are open for business this September and such is their popularity, entries are likely to sell out quickly. The terrain and the views across the Cheshire plains are amongst its highlights and with two distances to choose from, is an event for both new and experienced trail runners.

The government’s road map out of lockdown was the news Run Cheshire was waiting for. And they have now reopened entries for the Sandstone Trail Races, to be held on Sunday 12 September. The autumn double-header is part of Run Cheshire’s 2021 race calendar featuring a stellar line-up that includes the Wrexham Elite Marathon & Half Marathon, Colshaw Hall 10K, Mid Cheshire 5K Series and the Helena Tipping Wrexham 10K.

Sandstone sees two point to point races. The A race is 17.5 miles with 655m of incline and is aimed at the seasoned trail runner whereas the B race at 11.5 miles and 288m of climbing is ideal for the less-experienced participant. 

The course is marked with circular black and yellow signs – useful for the competitive runner and helpful for the newcomer, and whilst it follows the Sandstone Trail path, sections of it go through farmland and include stiles and/or gates. Conditions may be wet and muddy depending upon the weather but whatever Mother Nature throws at participants, marshals and volunteers will encourage them to the finish in Delamere Forest.   

Note: there is a timed-out road crossing for safety reasons. Information about this and the cut off times for the two races can be found on the event website.  

To enter, visit the Run Cheshire & Gogledd Cymru website.

Image courtesy of Christine Cammillare