This is the Carlisle Santa Dash. Each year hundreds of Santas take to the streets of Carlisle to run a 5k for charity. It’s a fantastic event and sees loads of spectators (especially with young children) coming to watch and cheer you along with a “Ho, Ho, Ho” or a “Did you forget your reindeer?”.

It’s a fairly surreal experience being stood at the starting line with so many people who all look identical. I didn’t recognise a single one of my club members even though I know they were there, somewhere.

It’s also not a race you’re going to get a PB on. Needless to say, running in a full Santa suit, complete with fake beard, is rather warm. Even in winter. However, this isn’t the point of this particular race. It’s all about the atmosphere and being part of something truly unique.

One thing that really surprised me was how generous this race was. The Santa Dash was fantastic value! For your entry fee of £12 you get a full Santa suit, a medal, and tons of mince pies, biscuits and cups of tea at the finish. I was also lucky enough to be one of the first few over the finish line so won myself a nice New Balance boot bag too.

I can’t recommend this race enough for both new and experienced runners. It really was a fantastic way to spend a Sunday morning!

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