The Isle of Man Cross-Country League is set to get underway this weekend, with the first of the four-round series taking place at Port-e-Chee.
Despite the venue being more accustomed to hosting the sporting exploits of Douglas Rugby Club, this Sunday (October 11) will see runners take on what is described as a straightforward course, ideal for newcomers.
As the series progresses, the courses will increase in difficulty, before culminating in the Manx Cross-Country Championships in the new year.
The league possesses a rich history of developing Manx talent, with a slew of accomplished distance runners competing in previous years. Chiefly, Keith Gerrard and Sarah Astin both achieved success in the winter contests, before going on to win their respective senior national titles.
Change Afoot
Changes have been implemented ahead of this season’s events, aiming to drive increased participation and improve accessibility.
New age groups in the junior categories, which range from under-eight (minimum age six) up to U18 in two-year bands, have been introduced, while men in the 70 and above age group now run the same distance as the senior women.
The other minor change is a slightly later start time for the opening race in each round. The start has moved from 1pm to 1.30pm, a move designed to allow those taking part in morning sport and activities a little more time to get to cross-country.
Entries are online only, and can be made here.