ENTRIES are opening soon for the 2025 Chevin Chase – Yorkshire’s iconic Boxing Day trail race.

Organised by Airecentre Pacers Running Club, the Otley event takes place on Boxing Day (Friday, December 26) and is one of Yorkshire’s best-loved festive runs.

First held in 1979, the Chevin Chase now attracts up to 2,000 runners each year. Its reputation has grown far beyond West Yorkshire thanks to its festive atmosphere, fancy dress and the challenging seven-mile trail route through the stunning landscapes of Otley Chevin.

Over the years it has also drawn some of the world’s best athletes, with Olympic triathlon champions Jonny and Alistair Brownlee both enjoying repeat victories, and Georgia Taylor-Brown and Vincent Luis among the high-profile names to test themselves on the course.

The race regularly sells out well in advance – and with no entry on the day, organisers are encouraging early sign-ups.

Around 2,000 runners are expected to turn up, and many of them will be in fancy dress – which adds to the fun.

To add to the festive atmosphere, organisers are expecting that some musicians will play along the route, as they have done in previous years.

As well as enjoying the festive atmosphere, runners will be able to choose between the event’s iconic technical long-sleeve t-shirt or the chance to plant a tree.

In 2024 more than 400 chose to plant a tree – within the grounds of the race route no less.

The Chevin Chase is more than just a race – it is also a major fundraiser for local charities and good causes.

Following the 2024 event, Airecentre Pacers have donated a total of £23,100, shared across a wide range of organisations, including Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Martin House, Leeds Mind, British Heart Foundation, Dementia UK, Yorkshire Cancer Research, Sue Ryder (Wheatfields) and local schools, scouts and community schemes.

Ewen Pearson, Chevin Chase Race Director, said: “The Chevin Chase is a special tradition for our club and our community.

“Every Boxing Day, runners come together not only for a great race but to make a difference.

“Thanks to their support, we’ve been able to give over £23,000 to local charities this year – and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another memorable event in 2025.”

Entries for the 2025 Chevin Chase open at 5pm on Sunday, September 21. There will be no entry on the day.

For more information on the race visit https://airecentrepacers.com/chevin-chase/, https://www.facebook.com/AirecentrePacers/ or https://www.instagram.com/airecentrepacers/ To enter the race visit https://theentrypoint.co.uk/events