Local runners are already getting excited about the 2024 gruelling ultra marathon event at Grimsthorpe Castle following this year's successful Grim Reaper.

Hosted by Bog Dog Running Gear of Stamford, the Grim Reaper ultra marathon at Grimsthorpe Castle took place 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 and the team encourage runners of varying abilities to sign up to this multi-distance event. Image credit: Bog Dog Running Gear.

Laura runs Bog Dog Running Gear in Stamford, and has been working hard organising the next iteration of 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, Rutland and across the East Midlands, and is sure to be a relentless but rewarding day.

This multi-distance event will once again take place at the stunning Grimsthorpe Castle Estate in South Lincolnshire - where it earned it's incredibly appropriate name.

The event brags a 10-mile loop consisting of a mix of estate roads, limestone tracks and grass trails, so trail shoes are recommended. You can pick some new ones up at Bog Dog Running Gear, where the team, headed up by Laura, will help you pick the perfect pair to take you through from training to the big day next May.

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.

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 Bog Dog Running Gear said: "After the roaring success of the new-look Grim Reaper in 2023, we're back for an even bigger and better event in 2024."

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

The 2024 event is set to take place on 24 and 25 May, offering both morning and night options for the runners tackling the 10-mile circuit.

For those not wishing to run, spectators are once again welcome to attend, with Laura adding: "The more the merrier!"

For both runners and spectators, there is a small car parking charge of £5 per car, of which 100% of the proceeds will go to the Grimsthorpe & Drummond Castle Trust Limited, a registered charity that works to maintain the 13th century castle and impressive estate.

The stunning home has connections to Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, and has been in the Willoughby family for over 500 years.

Meanwhile, the grounds record old Oaks dating as far back as the Doomsday Book of 1086. It is in these grounds where this incredible ultra marathon will take place.

Abigail loved the 2023 Grim Reaper and, like many others, will be back in 2024. Image credit: Bog Dog Running Gear.

If you need more persuading, last year's event received five stars from competitors who "will definitely be back next year".

Read more of these cracking reviews or get signed up for the 2024 event online.

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.