The power of the people has resulted in organisers of the popular Cannock Chase Half Trail Marathon including a marathon distance at this year's event on 18 May. A spokesperson from Mayer Active said: "We've organised the half marathon for five years. More recently we've been asked if we could offer an even longer distance option. So for 2024 those that want the ultimate Cannock Chase challenge can take on the Cannock Chase Trail Marathon."

The Half Marathon is the only single lap event of its type on Cannock Chase. 100% fully off road, the course takes runners along single track trails, fire roads many of which are off the normal beaten track. It is a true adventure. For the Full Marathon participants will complete two laps of the course making it one of the hardest marathon events in the UK.
 
If the prospect of the full marathon distance is just a little too much then there is also the opportunity to compete with a teammate in the Marathon Relay option. As a team of two, one runner will complete the first half marathon lap and then hand over to their teammate to complete the second lap.

The event spokesperson continued: "Unlike many of the events on Cannock Chase, we work really hard to design a course that really excites us. You can come and run along the main fire roads any day of the week. We want to take you off the beaten track. This is a course that will challenge all but at the same time isn’t too difficult making it suitable for new and long time runners alike.

"This is an event for all, yet like all of our other events our main aim is bringing like-minded people together to enjoy a sport we all love… running. If you want to take it serious then great but if like many just making it round is your challenge then fantastic! We will support you every step of the way."

If you'd like to know more, visit the Cannock Chase Trail Marathon website.

Image: Mayer Active Facebook