Now is the time of year when resolutions are waning and thoughts turn to entering sporting events to keep the motivation levels up.
Here in Bristol we have an array of active challenges for all abilities in a variety of disciplines. Being the year we host the Olympics, why not see this year as the one you set yourself a goal and really focus your training.
Here are just some of the events in Bristol’s 2012 calendar:
Running
Bristol 10k - Sunday 20th March
One of the post popular of it’s kind in the UK, this event saw over 11,000 entries last year. A great distance to train for if you’re new to running.
Race for Life - Saturday & Sunday 9th & 10th June
Just for the girls in aid of Cancer Research UK, Race for Life have both 5k and 10k runs. I did this a few years back and the atmosphere is great. All shapes, sizes and abilities take part and many people walk the 5k distance.
GNR Towpath Series - Various Friday evenings May-August
A series of 4 10k runs and a final 5k start and finish at Greville Smyth Park and (as the name suggests!) take in the towpath under the Suspension Bridge.
Bristol Half Marathon – Sunday 30th September
The biggie in Bristol’s running calendar, this year the race joins the runbritain grand prix, encouraging all to achieve a personal goal in this olympic year.
Cycling
Bath 100 - Sunday 1st April
A challenging 100 mile (for the hardcore) or 100k ride around the rolling hills of Bath in aid of Action Medical Research.
Ritchey Bikefest - Saturday & Sunday 9th & 10th June
Taking place at Ashton Court, 12, 6 and 3 hour races (solo or team) make up just part of this cycling festival. Also at the event is live music, DJs and the latest bikes and kit available for testing.
Get Gorge-ous - Date TBC
From Bristol to Cheddar and back, this ride takes you 50 miles in one day. The organisers also arrange a series of training rides to get you in shape for the event.
Bristol’s Biggest Bike Ride – Date TBC
Sadly, the event was cancelled last year due to a road crash on the Portway. Dates haven’t yet been released for 2012 but previous events have included a variety of distances from 9 miles up to 30 miles. With road closures ensuring safety, this is a great family event.
Triathlon/Duathlon
Bristol Harbourside Triathlon - Sunday 15th July 2012
Now in it’s third year, entries are open for Olympic and Sprint distances. The swim takes place in the Cumberland Basin, the cycle is on a closed road route under the Suspension bridge and the run is looped along the towpath.
Bristol Off-Road Duathlon - Sunday 14th October
2 Different course lengths are available for this run/bike/run event at Ashton Court. Both challenging, they can be done as part of a team or as a solo effort.
