You know things in the running world are getting back to normal when you see that dates have been released for one of the country's biggest series - Race for Life! Cancer Research UK are delighted that their much-loved charity events are back for 2021 with action taking place from late summer into autumn. 

The north of England is well catered for with close to 40 venues across the region, from Blackpool to Gateshead and Carlisle to Leeds - you'll be able to find a Race for Life near you. And it's not just 5K distances on offer, at some venues you can choose from a variety of distances - 3K, 5K or 10K and if you're up for something a little more 'exhilirating' then check out the Pretty Muddy obstacle events which offer something a bit different. 

Race for Life started 26 years ago as a women-only event. The first event was held in Battersea, in 1994 where 750 participants raised £48,000. Since that point, it has grown into a series of hundreds of events across the country raising nearly £900 million towards beating cancer over the last quarter of a century. 

In 2019, Race for Life opened its doors to allow men to participate too, making it a truly inclusive event and giving people the chance to come together with their family and friends and join the movement to beat cancer. 

A spokesperson for the series said: "All our events are strictly non-competitive, meaning everyone can enjoy them to the full with no pressure to finish in a certain time. It is the taking part that's important! It may be that things look a little different than usual, but we are working proactively with venues and suppliers to deliver a great experience for all."

After a year where vital cancer trials have been delayed, Race For Life is more important than ever. One in two of us will get cancer, by running in one of these events you help to support the research that will beat it. 

If you are keen to get back in the Race for Life saddle then check out this 30% discount which is in place until 4 July (use code RFLJUN30). 

Visit the event website for more information.

Image: Race for Life via Facebook.