The Illuminator is a night time trail run that takes place each October on the Glen Tanar estate near Aboyne, Aberdeenshire. It has 3 race lengths, an 8km, a 15km and a 15 mile. You can find out more about The Illuminator here.
This year, Colin Cadden took part in the 15 mile Illuminator.
Cover Photo: Illuminator Run
Tell us about the day! How was the weather, did you run with other Cairngorm Runners? What did you think of the route? How did your run go? What was your time? Was it a milestone? What was the most challenging part of the event? Anything else you can think of?
"The event took place in the aftermath of Storm Babet and subsequent heavy rainfall so I spent much of the day looking at the forecast and at updates from the race organisers. It was wet. Very wet!! Setting off from the community centre the first kilometre or so was on tarmac but after that it was muddy track all of the way. As the race progressed it became apparent that dry feet was an impossibility. It became a choice of muddy feet (possibly losing a shoe) and no grip, or run through the often flowing water and at least get some grip. I opted for the latter.
With only two refuelling stops on the route they were both very welcome. I "discovered" Active Root in the form of cups of the energy drink. It had been warmed up, which on a cold wet night was like having a warm hug from the inside. Marshalling and signposting was very good so it would be difficult to get lost, even in the dark. However, there was one fairly lengthy section where I didn't see any other runners and had almost convinced myself I was off course.
Distance-wise, I found the 15 mile/25km to be about right given the conditions. It wasn't the star-spangled sky I'd looked forward to though so I'd certainly consider giving it another go. "
Would you recommend this event to others in the club and why?
"If you like running at night, then this has to be on your list. Fun, well supported and not a million miles away,"
Thanks Colin! Maybe we will see more Cairngorm Runners at the 2024 event?