A much-loved island half marathon is set to return after a seven-year absence, with organisers confirming that the Barrathon will take place on 27 June 2026. The announcement has delighted runners who fondly remember the event, which was last staged in 2019 for its 20th anniversary.

Barra Running Club will take the lead on the new edition and is now seeking volunteers to help with organisation as well as sponsors to support the event.

First launched in 2000 as a one-off Macmillan Cancer Millennium fundraiser, the Barrathon quickly became a permanent fixture on the island calendar. Its popularity grew rapidly, with entries climbing from 39 runners in the inaugural race to a cap of 300 by the time of its final staging. Such was the demand that places often sold out within minutes of entries opening each January.

The 2019 race proved to be the last, after the event was formally discontinued in 2022 when no new committee could be formed. The news was met with disappointment across the running community, as the Barrathon had become famous not only for its scenic and testing route but also for the warm island welcome, post-race buffet and ceilidh that rounded off the day.

One runner summed up its appeal at the time, commenting, “The Barrathon wasn’t just a race. It was a great all-round event: a lovely welcome, a good run, fab food, a great ceilidh, a showcase of everything good about Barra.”

The race's return in 2026 is expected to attract strong interest once again, with organisers expected to reveal more details in the months ahead.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Barra Running Club Facebook page. 

Image: Barra Running Club Facebook