The duathlon consisted of a 6km run, a 18km bike ride and then another 3km run on a challenging off-road course – but there were also some lighter workouts in the form of a 10km, a 5km and a 2km run.

The 10km Robin Hood Trail Run followed the internal roads and trails within the park and offered runners the chance to take in some of the fantastic scenery of the forest.

There was also a 2km Fun Run for under 15s –– with many of the youngsters taking part in fancy dress –– and the Maid Marian 5km Trail Run aimed at runners of mixed ability.

And one competitor to pit herself against the Maid Marian challenge was Berry Hill resident Margot Shaw, who had only taken up running 10 days before the race.

'Determined'

"I'd only been on four runs before the race," determined Margot told Chad this week. "I really wasn't ready, but I wanted to have a go and see what I could do.

"I was really proud to complete the course and I achieved more than I had anticipated. Previously I had only run about 2km, but on Saturday I completed 3km and the rest was a bit of stopping and starting."

And now Margot, who enjoys cycling and is learning to play golf, has caught the running bug and has set her sights on conquering further distances.

"I'm planning to join the Berry Hill Park Running Club this week and I'm hoping to be able to take part in the Bolsover 10km run in December," she said.

"Running is a great sport. It's really enjoyable and there is also a social side to it. I initially got interested in running because my boyfriend is very into it and now I've tried it I will definitely continue running."

And Shape Up Notts! organisers are hoping the success of the event will encourage more people to take up the sport.

Said director of Sport Nottinghamshire Simon Starr: "The Robin Hood Challenge provided a great opportunity for the whole family to get involved in a sporting event.

"Exercise doesn't have to be a chore, events like this make it possible for people, whatever their ability, to get involved in physical activity in a fun environment."

T-shirt

All competitors received an exclusive Robin Hood Adventure Challenger event T-shirt and a £5 Sweatshop voucher and there were also spot prizes throughout the day provided by event sponsors Sainsbury's Mansfield and Go-Ape.

The Shape Up Notts! campaign encourages people to do 30 minutes' exercise three times a week. Visit the website www.sportnottinghamshire.co.uk for more details.