MORE than 1,700 runners endured a gruelling and muddy challenge in the Ragley Estate to raise funds for the Royal British Legion.

Participants were bombarded with smoke, explosions, smells, sounds and music when took on the Royal British Legion Major Series challenge on Saturday, March 12.

The event, which was hosted by British Military Fitness (BMF), featured up to 30 obstacles including mud crawls, cargo nets and a vanishing bridge, a giant porridge pot and a burning building.

More than 40 BMF troops on hand to help and encourage the runners around the course. 

Entrants were invited to complete either a 5 or 10km course.

Michaela Brice, events manager at The Royal British Legion Major Series, said: “It was fantastic to be at The Royal British Legion Major Series at Ragley Hall this weekend and to see so many muddy faces crossing the finish line.

“Our participant numbers are growing every year, and it’s great to see more and more people getting the confidence to try events such as ours.

“There’s such a friendly atmosphere to the event and we hope to see even more people getting involved in the event later this year and having the time of their life.”

Competitor Alex Dudley said: “The Royal British Legion Major Series was well organised, with amazing motivation all over the course, great obstacles, a brilliant atmosphere throughout and magnificent support and encouragement to keep going and push ourselves right to the end.

“I cannot compliment it enough and am so glad to have been a part of it.”

Charles Byrne, director of fundraising at The Royal British Legion, added: “We hope everyone who took part in The Royal British Legion’s Major Series enjoyed the day and thanks to all those who fundraised.

“Their valiant efforts will help members of the armed forces community, from serving personnel, veterans and their families live on to a more hopeful future.”

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