The Bruce’s Crown Race is back for a second edition since its long-overdue revival, with a race date scheduled for 5 April. After disappearing from the race calendar in 2006, this gruelling challenge in the Galloway Hills was resurrected in 2024 by Nicky Spinks, one of the UK’s most respected endurance runners.

Spinks, known for her record-breaking achievements in the Bob Graham Round and Ramsay Round, first ventured into long-distance hill running in 2004 at the Heart of Granite race, which was part of Bruce’s Crown. Speaking about bringing the event back and introducing a team element to the competition she has said: "The team aspect in races intrigues me and I think it adds something to hill and mountain challenges. I think women, in particular, do well in teams because they are good at looking after each other and pacing to suit the team."

The Bruce’s Crown Race will see teams navigating a full circuit of the Galloway Hills, tackling the southern peaks, Rhinnes of Kells and the Range of the Awful Hand before reaching Bruce’s Stone and making the final push to the finish. The optimal route covers 46 miles with a brutal 4,600m of ascent. Runners will be supported by three fully stocked checkpoints with hot soup and safety stations manned by mountain rescue teams.

All profits from the event will go to the Galloway Mountain Rescue Team, and prizes include mugs, gin glasses, beer and a selection of Easter eggs. Inov-8 has once again provided £25 vouchers, while Crafty Distillery is donating a bottle of gin for the winning team along with miniatures for all finishers.

Alongside the Bruce’s Crown, the Heart of Granite race will make its debut on the same day. This 20-mile, 1,850m ascent solo race is designed for experienced fell runners with strong navigation skills, as conditions in the Galloway Hills can be harsh even in early spring. The race will start and finish at Caldons Campsite in Glen Trool, with all entrants receiving a bottle of Sulwath Brewery beer and hot soup at the finish.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Bruce's Crown website.

Image: Bruce's Crown