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 Loch Rannoch Marathon offered ideal conditions for a scenic yet challenging race.

Getting to the starting area to find fellow club members Wendy & Karen brought an instant smile to my face. Complete coincidence that we all turned up in the same colour. The event kicked off at 9:30 AM with temperatures and a course that provided a perfect backdrop for personal bests. For me, the race went as planned during the first half, keeping a steady pace that aligned with my race strategy. However, in the second half, quad cramps and some ankle stability issues began to emerge, leading to a more walk/run approach. Despite these physical setbacks, I managed to push through and secure a personal best (PB), thanks in no small part to the stunning scenery, supportive fellow runners, and an enthusiastic crowd.

The Loch Rannoch course itself is known for its natural beauty, surrounding runners with breath-taking views of the loch and autumnal landscapes. The relatively flat!! route certainly helps with pacing, but managing fatigue, especially later in the race, was key. My Garmin data reflects these ups and downs, with a strong early pace and slower intervals as the cramps set in. In summary, it was a rewarding experience, combining the satisfaction of a PB with the challenge of overcoming physical hurdles in a truly magnificent setting.

For more details on this event, including future races, you can visit the official page on Run Nation’s website

Would you recommend this event to others in the club and why?

Yes - the setting makes this a must!