Nikolauslauf des LAV Meppen und SV Union Meppen

There is an 8 km cross-country race for senior women and men in the adult age categories, a shorter cross race for U16, U18 and U20 athletes together with adult runners, age-group cross races for U12 and U14 and for U10 (girls and boys aged eight and nine), and a Bambini run for children under eight.

Cross-country spikes or trail shoes with good grip are the usual choice for a December cross race in Lower Saxony. Bring warm, weatherproof clothing for before and after your race.

Cross-country courses are usually run over open ground that is easy to watch from, with several points where spectators can see the runners pass. The organiser's notice of race gives the venue details.

Cross-country racing normally goes ahead in winter conditions, and the organiser will publish any change or cancellation on its notice of race page. Check that page in the days before the event.

Late entries are sometimes accepted on the day if places remain, but this is decided by the organiser. Entering in advance through the official registration page is the safer route.