Record numbers and strong performances marked the 2026 Inverness Half Marathon and 5K as 5,100 runners took to the streets of the Highland capital on Sunday (8 March). Taking place on International Women’s Day, this year’s race also welcomed its highest ever number of female participants, who accounted for 50% of all entries.

In the half marathon, Central AC athlete Hamish Hickey was first across the finish line, clocking 1:05:06 to secure victory and the Lindsays Scottish Half Marathon title. Annabel Simpson of Fife AC produced an impressive run to win the women’s race in 1:13:52, claiming the women’s Scottish championship crown.

The event hosted the Lindsays Scottish Half Marathon Championships and the North District Championships for the fourth consecutive year. North District titles went to Inverness Harriers AAC athlete Robin Regan, who finished in 1:08:21, and Annabel Simpson, who recorded a time of 1:13:47 to add the district title to her day’s honours.

In the 5K race, victory went to Ruairidh Stirling of Inverness Harriers AAC, who crossed the line in 15:32. Millie Glass Park of Aberdeen AAC and Young Meldrum Runners claimed the women’s win in 17:15 - even more remarkable is that Millie is still only 12 years old!

The event sold out well in advance and attracted runners from across the Highlands, Scotland, the UK and overseas. Among those travelling to take part were Chilean couple Daniel Contreras and Javiera Suarez, who ran the 5K during their honeymoon in Inverness.

Organiser, Malcolm Sutherland, said: “What a fantastic day, full of excitement, PBs and sunshine. Taking place on International Women’s Day, it was great to see increased participation and strong performances in the women’s field. It is always inspiring to see people of all abilities taking part together, as well as the younger generation and school and youth clubs enjoying the 5K.”

The event is expected to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity, including official partners Alzheimer Scotland, Highland Hospice, Mikeysline, SAMH and The Archie Foundation.

Next year’s Inverness Half Marathon and 5K will take place on 14 March 2027. If you'd like to know more, visit the Inverness Half Marathon website.

Image: Inverness Half Marathon