A record number of participants looks set to compete in this year’s Abacus All Terrain Challenge.

 The event, sponsored by Abacus Financial Services Group, is now in its eighth year.

The Challenge runs from 6 to 12 August and sportsmen and women have until the end of the week (5 August) to enter what is widely regarded as one of the highlights in the Guernsey Island Amateur Athletics Club calendar.

The All Terrain Challenge is made up of seven races over seven days and the competitors are split into four groups based on ability.

The week kicks off with a 2.5mile road race at Saumerez Park, followed by a 5 mile cliff path run at Icart. The feature race of the week takes place on the Monday with a grueling 800m hill climb up Jerbourg steps.

The following day’s race is a relatively easy 6km circuit at Pembroke Bay, with a 800m track race on the Wednesday at Foote’s Lane before The Challenge returns to the cliffs for the penultimate time trial race.

The All Terrain Challenge finishes on the Friday 12 August with a 4 mile race over the common and sand dunes of Herm.

Geoff King, GIACC member and organizer of the event says that the All Terrain Challenge has a universal appeal that attracts both seasoned athletes and newcomers.

‘Whilst The Challenge is not as physically demanding as a half-marathon, the longest race is 5 miles, running everyday for seven days up some of the island’s steepest cliff paths takes a lot of determination. First time entrants to the All Terrain are catered for as the groupings give every runner the chance of success whatever their ability.

‘The continued commitment of Abacus Financial Services Group will enable us to build on last year’s success. With the number of newcomers entering The Challenge I am confident that we will see a bumper field,’ said Mr King.

Abacus Financial Services Group has a long tradition of sponsoring other sporting events in the islands.

‘Abacus likes to be associated with people who have self-discipline, determination and commitment to succeed. Athletes display all these and we are delighted to be involved with the Abacus All Terrain Challenge,’ said Abacus Business Manager Lisa Crawford.

Entry forms for The Abacus All Terrain Challenge are available from Fletcher Sports and Beau Sejour Leisure Centre or you can download them from www.guernseyathletics.org.gg.