Forestry England is offering runners a chance to challenge themselves and enjoy the freedom, fresh air and scenery of England’s forests this autumn/fall in a new running series – Forest Runner.
‘Set across 10 forest locations, participants will be able to enter either a 5k or 10k event. Everybody that crosses the finish line will receive a fantastic goody bag with some beautiful solid oak trophies to be won.’
This year, Forestry England has Merrell, the outdoor clothing and footwear brand, as an official Forest Runner event sponsor. Merrell will be providing race prizes, and will also encourage participants along the way. The brand will be sharing top trail running tips and advice in the run up to the events, as well as some Strava challenges.
Simon Sweeney, Merrell UK Marketing Manager, said “We are really excited to be supporting the Forest Runner series this year as an event sponsor. Our mission is to promote the benefits of time and experiences in the outdoors on mental health along with our charity partner Mind.
“This series will provide the perfect platform for runners of all abilities to experience some much needed escapism and experience the beautiful locations we have here in England.”
Forest Runner encourages participants to find inspiration, reconnect with the natural world and boost health & wellbeing by spending time being active in the forest.
Steve Cram, Olympian, World Champion and Director of Events of the North, delivery partner for Forest Runner, said “As we all strive for a better lifestyle balance, you would struggle to find a more uplifting experience than running through our nation’s stunning forests.
“We plan to offer you superb running routes over your preferred distance, at your pace, in venues that will invigorate you mentally and physically.”
All money raised by the events will go back into local forests so that Forestry England can continue to grow, shape and care for them for future generations.
Peter Rawlinson, from Forestry England’s Active Forests Programme, said “It’s been fantastic to see how many people have been enjoying running in the nation’s forests throughout the ups and downs of the past year.
“We have over 250km of waymarked trails for runners to enjoy; and with Merrell’s support, we are delighted to be launching this new event series to deepen people’s connections with the nation’s forests. We aim to inspire future generations to run in the forests for years to come.”
- Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, 12 Sep
- Delamere Forest, 19 Sep
- Bedgebury Pinetum, 26 Sep
- Salcey Forest, 10 Oct
- Sherwood Pines Forest, 17 Oct
- Hamsterley Forest, 24 Oct
- High Lodge, Thetford Forest, 31 Oct
- Whinlatter Forest, 7 Nov
- Cannock Forest, 14 Nov
- Forest of Dean, Mallards Pike, 28 Nov
Entry to the 5km event costs £20 and the 10km event costs £22.50, plus booking fees. A £2 UK Athletics member discount is available. Prices include parking, Ts&Cs apply.
www.forestryengland.uk/forest-runner
