Local runners are getting ready to compete in a gruelling ultra marathon at Grimsthorpe Castle this weekend.

Hosted by Bog Dog Running of Stamford, the Grim Reaper ultra marathon at Grimsthorpe Castle on 20 and 21 May 2023.

The Grim Reaper was launched in 2010 by keen ultra-runner and event organiser Keith Gray, who grew it to a peak of 250 runners. After deciding to take a step back from race organising, the Grim Reaper is being taken in an exciting, new direction by Steve Cole and Laura Bailey, runners local to the Grimsthorpe Estate who compete in races of distances from 10km up to 100-miles.

Laura runs Bog Dog Running Gear in Stamford, and has been working hard organising the popular challenge.

The event, that upon first launching had only 12 entrants, is now attracting 100s of keen trail and marathon runners from Stamford and across the East Midlands, and is sure to be a relentless but rewarding day.

This multi-distance event is set to take place at the stunning Grimsthorpe Castle Estate in South Lincolnshire. There will be a mix of estate roads, limestone tracks and grass trails, so trail shoes are recommended – and if you aren't sorted yet, you can pick some new ones up at Bog Dog Running Gear! 

Bog Dog Running Gear, Gwash Way. Image credit: Nub News.

Competitors have the option of running four solo distances - 10, 40, 70 or 100 miles, with a 40 mile and 100 mile team option available too.

The 10-mile loop around the stunning Grimsthorpe Castle Estate includes a mix of grass trails through ancient woodland, quiet estate roads, limestone tracks and even a disused Victorian railway line. You also skirt around the beautiful Grimsthorpe lake before reaching the start/finish point in front of the Castle itself.

If you are running one of the ultra-distances you are expected to be self-sufficient and manage your own supplies. You are encouraged to bring your own tent/shelter which can be left close to the start/finish point. There will be an Aid Station at mile 5 stocked with limited snacks and water.

Laura of Bod Dog Running Gear out training. Image credit: Laura Bailey.

There will be hot food and hot/cold drinks available to purchase throughout the event, from 6am on Saturday until 10am on Sunday.

The course is marked and contains a mix of estate roads, limestone tracks and grass trail. Trail shoes are recommended, especially in damp/wet conditions.

There will be fully qualified medics onsite throughout the event.

Runners are permitted to camp on-site on the Friday and Saturday nights. The camp area will be close to the start/finish line making it ideal for storing supplies for the race.

The public are welcome to head down and support the runners.

Event organiser Laura will not be running, as she is working hard at Bog Dog kitting out all of the her enthusiastic clients, and will be running from London to Paris the following week.

Laura and the London2Paris team. Image credit: Laura Bailey.

Made of seriously strong stuff, Laura and 4 other runners from the popular local running group Stamford Striders, will be running from Wimbledon to Paris to raise funds for Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) and Parkinson's UK. 

Not only do they have to run a half-marathon every day between 25 and 28 May, but they will also be camping out overnight throughout the challenge. 

Laura said: "We have to sleep in a tent overnight then get up and run a half-marathon! To top it off, we're getting the overnight ferry to Paris… The running will be easy, the lack of sleep will be the tough bit!

"It's for a great cause though, as one of our running team is ex-military, and two have experienced Parkinson's within the family.

"It will be worthwhile, and fun to see how we get on – and how we're going to get all the kit and people in the car!"

Between them, the team have smashed their £2,000 target, and now hope to raise £3,000. Find out more and donate on Laura's fundraising page.

Laura added: "We know that times are tough, but if anyone can donate we would be incredibly grateful." 

In the meantime, you can find Laura at Bog Dog in Gwash Way, where she provides support to those looking to get into running, experienced athletes, and fellow trail runners. 

Grim Reaper will take place on May 20 and 21, 2023, and can be booked online. A few spaces are still available, so sign up now. 

Sign up via the QR code.

Good luck to Laura and the London2Paris team - and good luck to all competing this weekend!