Are you brave enough to tackle the Doko Challenge? You don't need to be a basket case, but you need to be a strong, determined runner to carry the weighted Nepali Doko basket strapped to your back for 5K in London or Leeds next month.

The Doko is a traditional Nepalese conical-shaped basket, usually hand-woven from bamboo, fitted with shoulder straps and a 'namlo' (head strap) to support the load. The baskets carry a whole host of things, from clothing to bricks!

You can choose your Doko basket to weigh 5kg, 10kg, or 15kg, and you can run, jog or walk the cross-country route. Those looking to push themselves can try to beat the British Army's Brigade of Gurkhas recruitment standard of 46 minutes with a Doko loaded with 25kg of sand! The race is based on a gruelling part of the Gurkha selection process. The recruitment test is held on a steep, uphill 4.2K course in the Himalayan foothills.

The Doko run tests physical endurance, strength and speed. It assesses the Gurkha candidate's ability to balance a load while running fast, requiring cardiovascular fitness, leg strength and core stability. It also demonstrates the qualities needed for military service, such as determination and stamina. Failure to meet the 46-minute time limit means the end of their Gurkha selection process.

The Doko Challenge South event is on Sunday, 1 June at Richardson Evans Memorial Playing Fields, Roehampton Vale, London at 12:30pm (registration from 11:00am). Two weeks later, Doko Challenge North takes place at Roundhay Park, Leeds, on Sunday, 15 June at 12:00pm (registration 10:30am).

Last year’s events proved hugely popular with civilians and serving Gurkhas alike.  A coveted Doko Challenge finishers' medal is included and you can purchase a limited edition Doko T-shirt when you register. Refreshments will be available to purchase at both venues and the parks are fully open to the public, so bring your family and friends and make a day of it!

Alongside keeping fit and challenging yourself, you can take pride in raising money to support the Gurkha Welfare Trust team in Nepal, keeping Gurkha veterans and widows safe and giving them the means to live with dignity. A fundraising target of £150 is suggested and an online fundraising page will be created automatically when you register.

You can enter the Doko Challenge South here and the Doko Challenge North here.

Photo courtesy of the Gurkha Welfare Trust on Facebook