Is there a better way to spend a Saturday in mid-May than running one of Scotland’s Great Trails? Well, you can do just that at next year's Cateran Trail Race which is now open for entries. Follow the old drove roads and ancient tracks used by the Caterans – fearsome cattle thieves who raided Strathardle, Glenshee and Glen Isla from the Middle Ages to the 17th Century and for whom the Trail is named. 

The 2023 staging will take place on 13 May bright and early at 7am! The 55 mile race takes on a circular route, starting and finishing next to Gulabin Lodge in Blairgowrie. The Trail is approximately 90% off road - made up of forest tracks, rough tracks, bog, mud, heather and beautiful scenery in a spectacular rural setting. Organisers comment: "There's roughly 10% tarmac which is mainly backroads where you might be (un)lucky to see a vehicle or two!" 

But they are also keen to add: '"The last few miles are a real treat, a 1000 foot climb over the An Lairig pass with a steep tough run down to The Spittal of Glenshee, across a wee bridge then into the field to the finish. Raiding of sheep or cattle is not permitted!"

Runners get 15 hours to complete the challenge and there are prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd male/female as well as other categories. For those not on the podium, there will be a race momento for all finishers. With hopes for decent weather, it should be noted that camping and motorhome overnight parking in the finish field will be available to book. And for those who like to be under a proper roof - bunkhouse accommodation will be available to book early in the new year.  

There is a limit of 150 places so if you'd like to know more visit the Cateran Trail race website here, or enter online here.

Image: Cateran Trail Race