Irchy Park Canicross races – mud, community and wagging tails

Why Irchy Park is becoming one of the must-do Canicross races in the Midlands

If you love Canicross races that bring together mud, community spirit and plenty of wagging tails, then the Irchy Park Canicross race needs to be on your radar. Set in the beautiful Irchester Country Park, this event has quickly become one of those Canicross races people talk about long after the finish line and for very good reason.

A couple of years ago, I was chatting with Mary Pearson, race director at Race Harborough, about why Canicross runners were no longer included in their events. There were valid reasons, some courses simply weren’t suitable, particularly those crossing farmland. But instead of leaving the conversation there, we asked: what if we created something just for the Canicross community?

Irchester turned out to be the perfect venue. Wide, flowing trails mixed with twisty woodland paths and, of course, proper mud. Because let’s be honest… what’s Canicross without mud?

As a Canicross instructor, it was really important to me that the race felt accessible. I wanted beginners to feel just as welcome as experienced racers. Irchy Park delivered exactly that with enough challenge to keep seasoned runners smiling, but friendly and manageable for those giving Canicross races a go for the first time.

We had fantastic support too. Non-stop Dogwear were on hand with proper kit for anyone wanting to try the correct equipment, and Snowpaw Store covered all the dogs’ needs. Everything was in place to create a safe and supportive experience.

The first event in 2025 went brilliantly. The feedback was encouraging, and we knew once we’d proved it worked, word would spread and it did. The Canicross community is strong – and yes, FOMO is definitely a thing!

One of the biggest questions we get is about the start. “How is it beginner friendly if it’s a mass start?”

We use a rolling start system. Runners go off in small groups of four, and as the dog owner, you choose when to step up. There’s plenty of space to keep dogs separated and, if you’d prefer to head off on your own, that’s absolutely fine. We’re always evolving and adapting the format depending on numbers to make sure the experience remains enjoyable and inclusive for everyone.

By 2026, the event had grown again and the smiles on both human and canine faces said it all.