The Maldon Mud Race is an annual mad dash (or sticky wade) through the riverbed of the River Blackwater in Essex.
The quirky Maldon Mud Race began in 1973 with a pub-related bet. A local resident made a bet that the landlord of the Queens Head at Hythe Quay in Maldon, couldn’t serve a meal, dressed in a dinner jacket, on the saltings of the River Blackwater. Somehow this daft behaviour caught on and it developed into a race to across the riverbed to drink a pint of beer, until finally it became the popular organised charity event it is today.
The race is expected to attract 300 competitors from across the world, who will be racing in the name of fun, whilst raising money for charity. For those who don’t fancy getting filthy, the race welcomes spectators and this year there will be plenty of extra entertainment on the day.
The race itself is a four hundred metre dash (or wade) through the muddy riverbed. Competitors are encouraged to race in fancy dress, and prizes are awarded for various categories (these usually include the Last Person to Complete the Course, Best Male Fancy Dress, Best Female Fancy Dress and The Most Senior Competitor to Complete the Race).
A family fun day will begin at 10am, with stalls and entertainment. The race itself will begin at 1pm (depending on the tide).
When: 12th May 2019, from 10am
Where: Promenade Park, Maldon, Essex
£: Free to watch but donations welcome
More info: maldonmudrace.com
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