Take on this out and back course to really get in the Christmas spirit. This event isn't just about the race itself, the activities at Race HQ are bound start a jolly atmosphere. Whether you want a PB or to challenge yourself to a slightly longer distance there is something for everyone. A real Christmas atmosphere awaits all runners with music and food (and even a Christmas tree) to celebrate the season.
This out and back race starts on the canal at Kirkstall Leeds and is the first day of this 'It's Grim Up North Running' Event. The course is perfectly flat, so whether you want a PB or challenge yourself to a slightly longer distance there is something for everyone.
This is the first day of the Christmas Cracker event, but don't worry - you do not have to run both days to take part! Choose whichever day suits your schedule (or both!).

What's included
Elevation: Flat(ish)
Terrain: Good Trail
Feed/drink stations every 3 miles
Marshalled and signed course.
Bespoke medal and lots of treats for all finishers.

Toilets are available at the start/finish.

Getting to us:

The closest train station to Kirkstall is Headingley which is available on the Northern Service.

Registration: https://w3w.co/shout.rally.loaf

By Car: There is no parking at the start finish. Parking close by we suggest Morrisons carpark.

Car sharing is a great idea.

Distances and times:

Registration Opens from 8am – please allow yourself 1 hour to park, register and use the loos.

Our races are licenced from the Trail Running Association

Early Start (Must be pre-booked for Marathon and Ultra) (8:30 start)

5k (8:30 start)

10k (9:00 start)
Half Marathon (9:30 start)
20 Miler (9:00 start)
Marathon (8.30am start)

During the race important things to note:

We try to be cup-less: Our feed stations are normally around every three miles and offer drinks and a range of food but please bring your own re-usable cup or bottle.

Headphones: Most of our courses are off road but we still prefer you not to wear earphones and due to oncourse incidents, we have taken the decision to ban large over ear headphones. These block out any other sounds and don't allow runners to hear marshals, vehicles or other users of the route. If you do need to wear earphones, then please use bone conducting earphones or "one in one out" in ear pieces.

Know your route: We offer downloadable GPX files for our routes. Our routes are mainly off road and not every corner or junction will have a marshal. Please ensure you have a version of the route to help you navigate.

Withdrawal: If you need to withdraw during an event please let the nearest marshal know. In certain circumstances we allow runners to drop distances during an event. Please speak to the timers or RD at the end of your run.

Transfers/Deferrals: You can self-serve your transfer or deferral either on this website or “Let’s Do This” depending on where you booked. Please try not to change your event or details on the day as it causes delays and queues at registration.

We no longer mail out a race brief as most of the information is here on the website however we advise you to visit our FAQ section and join the “Grim Up North Chat” group on Facebook which will help with any other questions you have.