Bumper Bicton cross-country event

Cross-country runners from across the South West will be converging upon Bicton College for the England Athletics Cross Country Championships 2015. The event has been getting bigger every year and therefore finding an appropriate venue for so many runners and their families has been a challenge for organizers South West Athletics Academy.

“We always want to ensure an outstanding day of competition for south west runners” said event director Sonya Ellis. “Getting the right balance of on site facilities, a stunning venue and a suitably demanding course is always a tricky dilemma, but Bicton College is ideal.”

The prestigious event will be held on 4th January 2015 and registrations are now open at www.sw-athletics-academy.co.uk/upcoming-events. With many more early entries already having been received than in previous years, organizes are hoping for a bumper turnout at next year’s event.

Races are open for any runners, whether people compete with their clubs or just run for fun with their friends or with their firms and there is also an under 11’s development race for which all finishers receive a medal. “It is a great way for young runners to have fun and experience some gentle competition at the same time. At 1.3 kilometers, it is an achievable distance for developing runners” said the event organisers. Information about the competition and booking for the races can be made online at www.sw-athletics-academy.co.uk/sw-championships. The under 11’s race can either be booked online or paid for on the day.

The race always attracts a lot of spectators, with whole families coming along to enjoy the atmosphere and cheer on their loved ones. This year South West Athletics Academy are delighted to have received sponsorship from Western Event Hire for several large marquees so that runners can have a kit drop area and so that the volunteer officials can be well looked after in a hospitality area. Cherry on the top will be catering with their delicious cakes and organisers are now looking for a hot food provider for runners and families to enjoy. If you are interested in providing food, please contact SW Athletics Academy on 07745 616852.