A review of this event is a bit difficult due to the terrible weather conditions which forced a few changes right up until the start of the race.

An awful storm passed over the day before causing several changes to the event. Everything from parking, start location, course distance and route were all changed a few hours before hand. This was by no means the fault of the organisers or course location just bad luck regarding the weather.

The changes were all well communicated before hand & we were sent a number of emails and text as well as social media posts informing us of all changes.

Rat Race had to do away with all the usual event village stands and tents as they just kept blowing away. There was no bag drop, changing rooms or hot food van. Registration tent was a back of a van and so was the key drop. Again this was no fault of the organisers, just bad luck with the weather. Every volunteer did the best that they could given the circumstances and we were just grateful the event went ahead.

All distances had to be changed. The marathon was cancelled and the half marathon changed to two laps of what was meant to be the 10k lap. It ended up just under 12k lap each lap.

We did the two laps and my god was it brutal. This was a tough course. Lots of hills, lots mud and lots of water.  I really have never felt so drained after a race and I’ve done a few now. This is definitely not one to do if your new to running off road. I loved it.

The only thing that I felt really let it down and again it might have been different had the course not had to change was the aid stations or lack of. There was only one station per lap and that was after about 4-5k. Only water with no food or isotonic drink option. There was also no aid at the start/finish line when starting the second lap. I had to stop and ask for a bottle of water from a marshal. The marshals on the course were fantastic though. Loads of encouragement and luckily a few had some jelly babies & skittles to help us through. This was a very draining event and really needed more than one water stop. If not, it should be made very clear that you will need to bring your own supplies.

Despite the set backs I really enjoyed this event and can see us giving it another go next year.

I have now 'run' the Hellrunner 3 times and will continue to do it yearly.

I received my race number and instructions long in advance via the post, so no issues with registration on the day.

I drove to the event, where there is ample parking, although busy as is to be expected.

From the car, a short walk to the start area and mini-expo, where after an organised and clearly signposted bag-drop (run by local cadets/scouts) there was a selection of running and nutrition stands. The clif one being a particular favourite, with plenty of 'tasters' ! Also a posh coffee stand, to warm you up pre-run.

Next it was off to the start line, where we were given a clear safety brief and sent on our way.

10 or so miles of mud, water, sand and smiles. Scrambling up and down slippery hills, wading through water hazards and of course the inevitable 'Bog of Doom' which is a shock to the system. Cold and muddy, though energised by the Devil DJ pumping out tunes above you.

Then a little slice of heaven, a warm tent full of energy drinks and nutrition to get you through the last few miles. Even some 'angels' to provide massages to aching muscles if required.

Once over the line, a well stocked goody bag, good quality medal and smart t-shirt await.

Great Value and Great Fun.

A firm favourite.