Athletes warned: Do not underestimate mud race

Super-fit athletes due to take on the Maldon Mud Race have been warned to underestimate the challenge at their peril.

The world famous event involves competitors racing across a 440m (1,443ft) stretch of the River Chelmer in Essex.

For the first time in its 52-year history, there will be two separate races when the competition returns on 26 April.

Chairman Brian Farrington said the second race, which is reserved for elite athletes, would be a gruelling test.

"Despite being ultra-fit, you will never experience something like this before," he warned.

The new event, called the Uber Fit Challenge Race, will follow the traditional mud race, which is taken on by the public.

It means the boggy riverbed will be especially churned up for the 36 entrants, who are divided into six teams.

"I think the crowd will really enjoy seeing these elite athletes struggle like any normal person would," Farrington added.

One of the teams will be led by Colchester-born Olympic boxing medallist Lewis Richardson.

Thousands of people watched the 2025 race, which raised £40,000 for charity.

First-timer Joe Griggs was first to cross the finishing line, while Vicki Riley was the fastest woman.

Finishing times have previously ranged from a record two minutes and 48 seconds, to 35 minutes.

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