Are you after a wee warm up race for the Perth 10K which is set to take place at the end of the month (27 August)? Well, we have news of a great little 5K race which is making a return to the Scottish fixtures list after a 15 year absence.

The Blair Castle Cross Country Challenge will take place just a couple of days before the 10K on 25 August at the Blair Atholl Horse Trials. The Challenge will see athletes running the same cross country course as that used by the horses at the International Horse Trials (weather dependent). Although the runners will take the same course as the horses, they will not go over the jumps!

Organisers commented: "The Cross Country Challenge is returning after a long break utilising the International Cross-Country course. It is approximately 5K and open to all over the age of 14 with mens and ladies section."

There is competition for the men’s and ladies’ trophies – quaichs, prize money of £100 for the first placed athletes, £50 for the second and £25 for the third. Additional prizes such as leather bags and bottle holders will also be awarded to the placed contestants. All competitors will receive a medal rewarding their completion of the event.

Volunteers from Perth Strathtay Harriers representing Scottish Athletics will be responsible for the registration, start and finish of the race. The team of volunteers from the International Horse Trials will oversee the athletes on the course.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Blair Castle Cross Country Challenge web-page. 

Image: Blair Horse Trials Facebook