Well, that’s it, December festivities are officially over and we’re into a new year. If you’re like us, you’ll have just about had the last of your chocolate and cheese now, and will be starting 2024 off on a bit of a health kick and maybe setting some goals for the coming year. For many, January is a time for prioritising health and wellbeing, and developing a more active lifestyle.

With rolling moorland, wooded valleys and network of canals, footpaths and cycleways, Calderdale is a truly mesmerising place to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. Check out our our Walking and Cycling in Calderdale pages for inspiration on where to explore.

However, we all know that setting New Year goals is the easy bit…keeping up to them is slightly trickier! Which is why we’ve come up with this list of exciting sporting challenges taking place across Calderdale this year – why not put yourself to the test and sign up to one? Not only will you be more likely to keep up to your New Year goals, but you’ll also get to enjoy the great outdoors in style…

Canalathon Ultra – 24th March 2024

The Canalathon Ultra is an exciting ultra-running event taking in the beautiful scenery along the Rochdale canal from Sowerby Bridge to Lancashire. Participants will dig deep and choose from a 100km or 50km distance. The race powers along the Rochdale Canal passing through historic industrial towns and stunning Pennine landscapes, whilst visiting checkpoints on the way. No navigation needed, no hill climbing necessary, just worry about getting from point A to B!

Brighouse 10k –  21st April 2024

This beautiful and scenic course takes you from the heart of Brighouse into the surrounding countryside and back. With a friendly and supportive atmosphere, Brighouse 10k is a celebration of the spirit of running and the power of community. The fast and flat course is well-marked, chip timed and perfect for runners of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time racer.

Calderdale Way Ultra – 27th April 2024

The Calderdale Way Ultra is a thrilling trail run event offering two distinct routes: a challenging 50-mile course and a slightly less demanding 30-mile course. The race ends in the village of Heptonstall, after traversing open moorland and woodland trails, and offers scenic views from above Todmorden and Old Town.

The Cragg Challenge – 23rd June 2024

Calderdale favourite ‘The Cragg Challenge’ is a closed-road event of running and cycling, up and down the longest continuous climb in the UK. Follow the route of the Tour de Yorkshire and take your pick from the various events taking place on the day, including the Cragg 35 Sportive, a Cycling Ascent, and running races of various distances.

Calderdale Park Runs – every Saturday at 9am

And if the above challenges don’t appeal to you, how about trying out your local park run? These well-loved community events take place in parks all over Calderdale every week. Below are the park runs taking place in our area – have you been to all of them yet?

Brighouse Parkrun – Wellholme Park, Bradford Road, Brighouse, HD6 4AF

Halifax Parkrun – Shroggs Park, Lee Mount Rd, Halifax, HX3 5BX

Todmorden Parkrun – Centre Vale Park, Burnley Road, Todmorden, OL14 7DE