Cross country running was definitely an acquired taste, especially on a winter morning when you sploshed through muddy fields.
Or worse, there were the winter days when you battled to stay upright on icy lanes.
Here are eight cross country scenes to take you back to those unforgettable days, from Harton Comprehensive in 1975 to Mortimer Comprehensive in 1991.
1. Athletic at Summerhil
The Hartlepool Junior Schools Cross Country Championships in 2010. Were you at the event at Summerhill? Photo: FLR
2. Taking the lead at High Tunstall
Back to 2007 for this look at a cross country race at High Tunstall College of Science. Photo: FLR
3. A fast start
A close fought race in the Hartlepool Junior Schools event in 2010. Photo: FLR
4. Through the Summerhill puddles
Cross country running under way at Summerhill in 2008. Photo: TC