Essex AA Cross Country Relays

The Essex AA Cross Country Relays return to Chingford Plain in Epping Forest on Saturday, September 19th, 2026. Hosted by Orion Harriers, this annual competition offers exciting races for athletes of all ages and skill levels.
Entries are limited and will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, so early registration is crucial to secure your spot in the event. Once entries reach capacity, waiting lists will be maintained.
The day's schedule features three main events:
- Race 1: At 9:30 AM, U14/16/18 Girls compete over a distance of 3 legs at 3 kilometers each (one lap).

- Race 2: Following closely at 10:15 AM is the race for U14/16/18 Boys, also covering three legs of 3 kilometers.

- Race 3: The senior and veteran category takes to the course at 11:00 AM. Seniors will run four legs over a distance of 6 kilometers each (two laps), while veterans compete in teams of V40, V50, or V60 across three legs.
Age categories are strictly defined:
- U14: Born between September 1, 2013 and August 31, 2015.
- U16: Born between September 1, 2011 and August 31, 2013.
- U18: Born between September 1, 2009 and August 31, 2011.
For veterans competing on the day of competition (September 19th), age groups are based on their age as of that date. Team managers must purchase a ticket for each team they wish to enter, detailing all potential runners up to eight members along with necessary identification details such as DOB and England Athletics URN numbers.
After races conclude, team managers have the responsibility to complete a Google doc declarations sheet within 24 hours, specifying the actual running order of athletes who participated in their teams.
Entry fees are structured this way:
- Junior Teams: £24 per team.
- Seniors and Vets: £30 for teams with three runners; £40 for those comprising four.
Winning teams receive medals immediately following each race, adding to the excitement of competition day. All athletes must be members in good standing with England Athletics and eligible to compete for Essex based on their place of birth or continuous residence within Essex over a nine-month period leading up to the event date.
Athletes are allowed to participate in only one leg per team; any violations will result in disqualification. Additionally, all entrants agree to abide by UKA Anti-Doping Rules and submit to anti-doping regulations for 12 months from their entry into this competition.
This event promises a day of thrilling races set against the scenic backdrop of Epping Forest, offering both competitive spirit and camaraderie among runners.