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). Fast and fun, and you will get to the finish whether you run it or walk it. Ideal if you have never raced off-road before, or if you just want a short and fast one. All on dirt road: 1km downhill, 1km flat, then a climb that starts gentle (2-3%) and gets steeper up to 3.7km (1.6km at about 6% on average). From 3.7km to the finish it is the fastest part of the course, 1.3km downhill. Enjoy! Ages 18+, 12-17 with a declaration signed by a parent on race day. Poles allowed. No time limit. 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.