Forget the Boxing Day sales. For generations of West Lothian runners, 26 December has meant something far more enjoyable than queuing outside the shops. The Beecraigs Festive Handicap celebrates 40 years since its beginnings in 1986, bringing another morning of running, friendly competition and community generosity to the hills above Linlithgow.

Organised by Lothian Running Club, the event offers 7K and 14K handicap races alongside 1K and 2K children's runs. Entry is completely free, although participants are encouraged to bring a donation for West Lothian Foodbank, continuing a tradition that has become an increasingly important part of the occasion.

And the generosity has been impressive. Foodbank collections have grown from 111kg in 2023 to 144kg in 2024, reaching a remarkable 174kg last Christmas. According to the organisers, the 2025 contribution was equivalent to 420 meals, demonstrating how a relatively modest local running event can make a meaningful difference.

The racing itself has a distinctive twist. Rather than everyone starting together, competitors in the 7K and 14K set off according to their estimated finishing times, with the aim of bringing the field home around noon. It creates an entertaining contest in which runners of different abilities can find themselves battling for position over the closing stages.

Both distances follow a demanding circuit through Beecraigs Country Park, passing the loch, climbing Sawmill Hill and tackling the grassy slopes of Cockleroy. The longer race completes two laps, doubling the opportunity to enjoy the scenery and perhaps encounter a little festive mud.

Younger runners have their own challenges, with 1K and 2K races taking place on woodland trails near the main start area.

The first handicap runners set off from Balvormie at approximately 10:30am, with the children's events following at 11am and 11:15am.

Forty years after it all began, Beecraigs remains a wonderful example of running bringing a community together. 

Entries are open, with full details available through the runABC Race Hub.

Image courtesy runABC Creative.