Kielder Dark Skys 10k is the perfect way to start the New Year with a test. It's off-road, it's 10k and it's at night, I entered this race becuase I wanted a different challenge in the middle of Marathon Training and it didn't disappoint.

The race starts at Kielder Castle and heads out into the forest along a track which is 50:50 forest track and softer trail, just after 1k the race slowed down as we approaced a steeper single file piece of trail but it was great that everyone supported eachn other.  The course continues to wind up into the forest before droping down back towards the castle at 2.5k and heading out along the river.  The 2nd half of the course was flat(ish) until around 6k where it had a challenging incline before levelling out for an enjoyable run along some forest track.  At the higher ground we were treated to a light dusting of snow which added some fun to the race.  After 8k the course sharp declines through a challenging forest section before heading back to the castle.

Overall this was a fantastic race, I would definitely do it again although it is a long way to travel from Edinburgh for a 10k.  There aren't any on course water stations but they aren't really needed as it was so cold.  Marshalls were very supportive and helpful with shining torches at difficult areas and juctions.  The atmosphere around the castle was very supportive and the café stayed open late so was great to grab dinner before the drive North.

High Terrain Events run a series of trail events, check them out at https://www.highterrainevents.co.uk.

Under a dark, cloudy, yet mild early January, the predominantly track route offered a testing challenge to help banish the excesses of the recent festive period. It was a easy online registration process, with ample pre race information. The pre race email a few days before the race yielded no surprises whilst containing all the pertinent information. The actual set up on the day was not complicated, yet it was effective. It demonstrated the efficiency of the organisation, whilst the informality and lack of reams of tape allowed organisers, participants and spectators to intermingle freely. The 2k kids run prior to the actual 10k race was a nice touch as it allowed the young runners to be afforded the support of the 10k participants as the started and finished their run. The actual 10k route offered a series of inclines, flat sections, descents, and chicanes on a mix of gravel, mud, and grass. Running the event under dark skies in a dense forest added to the ambience. The glow of the head torch pierced the darkness. Despite nearly 200 participants, the race never felt crowded. I felt as though I was alone, even though I was passed at regular intervals. The route was well defined and marked with tape, arrows and marshalls at key points. Overall, it was a well organised, friendly run, over a challenging terrain. It ticked all the boxes and definitely exceeded expectations.