Loch Ness Ultra X endurance challenge attracts hundreds of competitors
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Organisers of a multi-stage ultra marathon taking in the splendour of the Loch Ness area are already looking forward to returning to the area.
Ultra X took in parts of the Great Glen Way and South Loch Ness Trail with both two-stage 110km and a one-stage 50km options for competitors.
Completing a circuit of Loch Ness, the full 110km race is done over two days and includes 3768 metres of ascent, while the 50km event started from Fort Augustus on the Sunday and covered 1381 metres climbing.
The third time the event had run, this year’s outing on Friday and Saturday had the largest field yet – with 450 competitors representing more than 30 nationalities.
Organisers made a contribution to the South Loch Ness Trail based on competitors involved in last year’s race and this year did the same as well as engaging with local vendors for the finish of the race in and around Dores.
Sponsored by Asics and Cloiche Wind Farm, an SSE Renewables project, Ultra X Scotland also partnered with Highland mental health charity Mikeysline for the event.
Sam Heward, Ultra X co-founder, said: “We set up Ultra X to give people amazing experiences in iconic places across the planet.
“It’s always a pleasure coming back to Inverness for this one and for the third year in a row the sun shone!
“We’re already counting down the days until next year!”
And competitor James Cooke said: “These events will totally change life as you know it.
“From the people you meet, to the miles you cover, there’s something about the days in the Ultra X bubble that make you feel more alive than ever, even when you’re at your most exhausted.”
Women’s winner was Lindy Lee-Foslcher, who completed the two days in a time of 5.05.57. Men’s winner was Harry Holmes who finished in 4.53.15.
The 2024 event will take place on May 4 and 5. You can register interest here
