General entry for the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon closes on July 18, after which places will only be available for those running for one of the events’ official charities; runners belonging to a running club; or those travelling from overseas.

Race director Malcolm Sutherland said: “When we started the Loch Ness Marathon all those years ago, we never imagined it would become such a big part of the running calendar. We’re also incredibly grateful to Baxters Food Group, who have been with us as event sponsors from the very beginning. Their support has helped us make the event what it is today. If anyone out there is still on the fence, there are still a couple of days left to sign up for general entry and I’d strongly encourage you to do so before the deadline. We firmly believe you won’t find a more beautiful run anywhere else.”

Check out this video to get a full flavour or race day:

Each year, runners travel from across the globe to traverse the famous shores of Loch Ness and this year is no different, with athletes due to arrive from Brazil, Finland, Australia, South Africa and UAE amongst many others. The race is also popular with those closer to home, with at least three runners on track to have completed the course all 20 times.

One of them is Fiona Rennie from Dunfermline (pictured above) who has been running for 35 years, and will enter a new category at the age of 60 by the time the marathon arrives.

Fiona said: “I really enjoy the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon because it has the buzz of a big city marathon but without having to run in urban areas. Give me a scenic route every time and the views from the route bring back happy childhood memories. After passing Dores and heading up the hill, I always turn around and enjoy the view down the loch, it’s stunning!“

“In previous years, the marathon has given me cherished memories, from coming back from ill health to reaffirming I’m alive and kicking and I hope I can keep going for a long time yet! I even have ‘lucky pins.’ They are the safety pins I used to pin my race number for my first marathon in 1992 and I’ve used them for every race since!”

Entry to the River Ness 10K, River Ness 5K, and Wee Nessie kids race is open until September 26, alongside charity, international and club slots for the main Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.

The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running is one of the world’s most popular running events, and takes place in 2022 on October 2. The point-to-point marathon starts in atmospheric Highland moorlands, stretching 26.2 miles along the south-eastern shores of the iconic Loch Ness and finishing in the Highland capital, Inverness.

The Festival of Running also comprises the River Ness 10K and River Ness 5K, as well as the Wee Nessie for under-5s.

Grab your last minute spot here.

Image and video courtesy: Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.