Students across Canterbury are counting down to the most "muddy good fun" they'll have all year.

The UC Education Mud Run was introduced by Sport Canterbury in June 2011, encouraging students of all abilities to participate in a team – training to achieve a goal, but having heaps of fun along the way.

Date - Sunday 17 June 2018

2018 Site Map - click here

2018 Course Map - click here

2018 Frequently Asked Questions - click here

“Over the years this event has appealed more and more to students who may not participate in traditional sporting codes,” says Sport Canterbury Chief Executive Julyan Falloon. “Although it also appeals to cross country runners, it’s equally accessible to those who don’t have quite as much experience or confidence. 

“It’s simply about setting a goal, having a go and enjoying a sense of achievement with your mates.”

In 2018, the UC Education Mud Run returns to Motukarara Racecourse on Sunday 17 June. Schools that have been champions of the event for many years include Cashmere, Darfield and Papanui High Schools, as well as Marian College.

We spoke with four Marian College students who are making a commitment to complete the event in 2018 - Hana Anderson, Mia Blyth, Chantal MacDonald and Megan White.

Megan is a dancer who was inspired by watching last year's UC Education Mud Run video. "Mud's probably not my thing! But I'll get into it."

Both Hana and Mia play netball and are motivated by the idea of so many schools coming together to take part. 

"It looks like a great way to meet new people and a fun way to get involved in an event," says Hana. "It's a challenge, and it's different to a normal event."

Chantal is a cross-country runner who likes the idea of encouraging students to be active by making it fun.

"You don't actually know you're doing exercise, because you're so engaged and having so much fun. And by the end of it you've basically done five kilometres!"

The girls all agree that the appeal of the event lies in how accessible it is - no sporting or running experience required.

"Anyone can do it. People who have done no sport in their lives can still enjoy it."

2018 UC Education Mud RunDate: Sunday 17 June

Gates open: 10:45am

Registration time: 11am – midday

Fancy dress parade: 12:15pm

Race briefing (compulsory): 12:45pm

Start time: 1pm

Cost: $25 each

Teams of two or more (only teams of four, however, are eligible for prizes)Entries close at 4pm on Wednesday 7 June 2017.

If you haven't already registered, please see your School Sports Coordinator for details.