WHAT‘S with the increasing fascination with slopping through squelching mud and wading through bone chillingly icy water?

Mud runs have become something of a global phenomenon with adrenaline seekers the world over signing up in their thousands to throw themselves over mud-laden obstacles all in the name of sporting activity.

The likes of Total Warrior and Tough Mudder have gained excellent reputations in the UK, and the popularity for this type of event has spread to Tynedale with a few popping up in the past couple of years.

Coming to Hexham Racecourse next month, the Mad March Mare event on March 5, organised by Stocksfield-based Challenge Northumberland, has made a storming impression since its debut in 2015 and has already reached its initial capacity of 800 entrants for this year‘s run.

Spaces are still available for the waves from midday onwards, though, with online entries open until March 4 and cash entries taken on the day.

Having always had more than a slight curiosity about the hysteria surrounding mud runs, I have taken the plunge and agreed to take in the challenging 10km route around Yarridge Heights alongside 800 or so other daring thrill seekers.

But why? Well, it's a chance to get involved in a community event with a growing reputation while also challenging myself physically.

I was given the opportunity for a special taster session as I took in a handful of the 30 obstacles and I am now more prepared for the big challenge which stands in my way.

Having sampled only four, the appetite has been whetted and I can’t wait to take in the unforgiving course in its entirety.

Soaked and frozen by splodging through the ravine, and caked in mud after crawling through tunnels and under the cargo net, a big surprise is in store.

My main hope is my lack of upper arm strength won‘t hinder my progress like it did in the trial run, or the cold hit when I immerse myself into the racecourse lake doesn’t break my resolve.

More on the event can be found at www.madmarchmare.co.uk or see our earlier preview: http://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/hexham/--Mad-mud-run-scheduled-for-March---d4bd487f-7364-4c0b-b303-c679a3d592b8-ds