The 1066 Relay Race is drawing ever closer and time is running out to enter your team. The race takes place on 6 May 2012 and there is a maximum limit of 60 teams so if you are looking to enter you and some friends into the race you had better hurry up.

If you are not familiar with the 1066 Relay Race, let me explain. The race is a five stage, off-road, team relay which has been organised by Hastings Runners and it follows the route of the 1066 Country Walk from Pevensey to Rye.

It begins at Pevensey Castle and the route takes all of you keen runners past such iconic landmarks as Herstmonceux Castle and Battle Abbey (pictured) before crossing through Battle Great Wood towards Westfield.The final two stages take in some glorious countryside, in particular the views from Icklesham and Winchelsea over the Brede valley, before a fast, flat finish along National Cycle Network route 2 into Rye.

The total distance of the race is 33.05 miles and the stages vary from between 3 and 11.8 miles long. Due to road safety regulations there is an entry limit of 60 teams and there will be some great awards on offer.

There will be men’s and women’s senior teams as well as veterans teams along with a mixed team category. Each team must have five runners (one for each stage of the race), and there will be awards for the winners, and the the first non athletic team, along with the coveted ‘long distance trophy’ for the team that has travelled the furthest to take part in the race. The Minnesota Loons (at 4100 miles!) look set to retain their trophy!

This fantastic event has encouraged people into 1066 Country, it has raised the profile of Hastings Runners and it has also, in the past, raised over £1600 for local charities. Last year’s race was the first and it was well received so they are hoping for an even better event this time round.

If you don’t fancy lacing up your running shoes then why not come along and offer your support to the runners? It will be a great day out and you can soak in some lovely countryside whilst doing your bit for local charities.

There are currently 43 teams entered into the race, which means there are only 17 spaces left. So if you are interested in signing up for the event before all the spots get taken head over to the 1066 Relay Race’s official site.

Picture: Andrew and Annemarie