What is it about?

The 'East Coast AC Championship Challenge Series consists of a number of races held throughout the year that allow all athletes to compete on a level playing field (more or less!).  The races aim to cover most aspects of running, including trail, road, cross country and fell/mountain.  The timetable for the events can be seen in the flyer beside this text.

The Series includes internal (organised by East Coast AC) races as well as external races.  The East Coast AC races are open to everyone, not just club members.  However, only fully paid up club members will be considered for the Series awards given to the winner of each event.

Races are either based around a staggered or mass start system.  A staggered system allows for the more inexperienced or slower runners to start first and those who are expected to be faster, will start last - the faster you are, the more 'delay' time (handicap) that is added to your start time, so as to slow you down. 

The theory is that, the amount of delay that is added to your start time varies so that all runners should cross the finish time at exactly the same time... therefore everyone has the same chance of crossing the line first. 

A mass start system is similar in that a 'delay' time, or handicap, is calculated for each athlete, however, all athletes start the race at the same time.  This ensures that no one is left waiting too long in the cold or after their warm-up before starting the race, it also allows inexperienced athletes to experience a mass start, similar to that in officially organised events outside the club.  Athletes will cross the line at various times, and their handicap is added on to their end result.

Why should you do it?

Well first off, it should be fun... honest!  As the events are over a variety of terrains, it gives you a chance to try out other types of racing and you can make your mind up on which one you prefer.  It should encourage you to push yourself that little bit more, because in theory, everyone has an equal opportunity to win - not just the 'top runners'.

Who can take part?

Our series is open to all members, friends, and family.  Anyone can take part in the events.  East Coast AC are a friendly, welcoming, and all inclusive club, suitable for athletes of all abilities.

2023 -2024 Fixtures/Races