Keri Cross Country Race in Keri forest (Municipality of Malevizi), one of the few green lungs left around Heraklion, running since 2021. The idea behind it: raise awareness about protecting the forest, give people a taste of the easiest form of mountain running and get kids and grown-ups moving outside the city (Netflix can wait). The original course, raced every year since 2021 and used by plenty of runners for training all year round. Fast in the first half, then it "punishes" you in the second half where most of the climbing is. Best if you already have some 10K+ races in your legs. All on dirt road with constant ups and downs, nothing technical (the only real danger is overestimating yourself in the first half). One water station at 5km, cupless: bring your own flask, bottle or reusable cup, otherwise no water for you. Intermediate cut-off of 50 minutes at the 5km station (after that you continue at your own responsibility), course closes at 1h35 with a sweeper behind the last runner. Ages 14+. Poles allowed. Awards: top 3 men and top 3 women overall, plus the 3 fastest teams (average time of each team's 3 fastest men and 3 fastest women, minimum 6 members, every registered team member has to finish, and you just type the exact same team name when you register). Includes electronic timing, bib, finisher medal, t-shirt, photos, aid station, post-race snacks, sports massage, toilets and medical cover. Registrations close on 08/12 or earlier if the 500 available spots fill up. Race pack and bib pickup: Saturday 19/12, 16:00-18:00 (strictly) at Three Trees, Knossou 38A, Heraklion (just above the fire station), with the participant's name. Race day: secretariat in Keri forest 08:00-09:30 (strictly), no packs handed out after 09:30. Contact: ideanroutes@gmail.com, +30 694 586 3051.