The off-road duathlon Stinger event returns since it first launched in 2002, taking place on Sunday 13 February.

The format is fairly typical for an off-road duathlon for the first two stages but things take a fairly nasty twist for stage 3. After a 5km trail run and 20km Mountain Bike Ride around the Newnham Park trails, the tiring competitiors are met by a final Sting in the tail with a 3km battle through some of the boggiest, steepest, slippiest, wettest and downright ugly bits that the organisers can find.

This year Jay and Maddie Horton have been seconded to design the route and their devilish eyes lit up with the thought of what they can do to keep things interesting.

With prizes supplied by new event sponsor Certini and the now highly valued Stinger Mug for all finishers this event is one not to be missed (if you like being tired, wet and miserable/elated).

There is a relay option of you want to find someone else to do the running or riding bit and prizes for the top 3 in each category. On site facilities include hard standing car park, indoor cafe/registration, live race timing, commentary, flushing loos, fully waymarked and marshalled course with first aid on hand.

Entries and more details are available at www.xcracer.com