1,500 people embrace the mud at Whole Hog event, near Woodbridge, with estimated tens of thousands raised for charity in the process

More than 1,000 budding competitors braced the mud over the weekend in an annual obstacle course near Woodbridge.

The Whole Hog took place on Sunday, October 8 at Wantisden Hall, with nearly 1,500 runners taking on the five mile course.

It has been running since 2007, and also has a harder circuit called The Boss Hog, which is two miles longer.

It is partnered with East Anglian Children’s Hospices (EACH), but competitors also raised money for their own charities.

Ian Bliss, who has been running The Whole Hog since the start, said: “We had 1,500 participants for the Boss and Whole Hog this year, and it went really, really well.

“We had some great weather and put in some more challenging obstacles for this year.

“It’s a great experience for anyone who wants to try their first obstacle/mud run, everyone is supported by marshals and volunteers the whole way and people have a real sense of achievement when they cross the finish line.”

Ian estimates that tens of thousands were raised for different charities through the event.

The Whole Hog (5 miles) currently costs £39 to take part in, and The Boss Hog (seven miles) £44.

There are 30-plus obstacles in the five mile course, and 40-plus in the seven mile route.

James Colchester ran this year’s event with fitness business 13 Fitness UK, alongside three women from Pink Shed Beauticians.

He believes it is a fantastic event that has grown and grown since he first did it.

James said: “When we first did it, it was just me and two of my friends; we did it for EACH as one of their wives worked for them.

“Then, when I started my business, it was something I could use to motivate my clients, something to build up to.

“Thirty-one people took part from 13 Fitness this year, people who I do PT with, my bootcamps or the buggy fitness sessions.

“From when we first did it to now it has grown so much, it’s a real community spirit and it’s great that it’s a local event in Suffolk for people to take part in.”

James came seventh in this year’s Whole Hog, and another personal trainer that he works with came second.

Next year’s event will be on October 6, and registration for the event is open here.