Skyloop Replaces Skyline
Hill runners will be pleased to hear that there will still be a race in the Pentlands this October...
Entries are now open for the Carnethy Skyloop which will replace the long-standing Pentland Skyline race in 2024. The Category 'A' Long hill race will cover over 30K with 1700m of ascent in the Pentland Hills south of Edinburgh and will take place on 13 October.
The race had to be rethought when 'demands' from landowners became too difficult to comply with, at the time a spokesperson said: "These issues are now too important to be the concern of a mere race organiser. They are not limited to the Skyline Race, or the Pentlands, or even just hill running."
Looking ahead to the new event, organisers continue: "While the route is not quite the same as the Skyline race and skips a few key peaks, we believe this new route still offers a suitable challenge and good route and we are delighted to be able to offer a race after the ongoing the issues the club has faced."
The race route includes steep ascents and descents, on loose and rough ground, and sections of difficult open moorland. The course is mostly unmarked, you are required to be able to navigate over difficult terrain in low visibility conditions.
It is important to note that taking part in this race is a serious undertaking - the Skyloop is hard, and must not be underestimated.
If you'd like to know more, visit the Carnethy Hill Runners website.
Image: Pau Morillo/Carnethy Hill Running Club