Loch Kinord 10K returns to Royal Deeside on Sunday 11 October with the prospect of something that does not always accompany a Scottish trail race: speed.

Organised by Deeside Runners, the 10K starts at 11:00am from Kinord Hall in Dinnet, between Aboyne and Ballater. Rather than sending runners high into the surrounding hills, the race follows a fairly flat trail course incorporating tracks, narrow paths and grass sections.

That combination gives Loch Kinord a character of its own. The terrain provides the variety of an off road race while the relatively level course offers runners the opportunity to maintain a good rhythm and test how quickly they can cover 10K away from the tarmac.

October on Deeside can, of course, add another dimension. The organisers warn that wet weather can leave sections muddy or slippery, with trail shoes advised (see above!). Competitors must also arrive with clothing suitable for the conditions, including full body cover, although they will not necessarily be required to carry it during the race.

Race headquarters, registration, the start and finish are all at Kinord Hall, with bib collection available from 8:30am until 10:30am before the race briefing at 10:50am.

For runners who associate trail racing with big climbs and long days in the hills, Loch Kinord offers a different proposition. There is still enough varied terrain and unpredictable autumn weather to keep things interesting, but on a good day this could be one to run quickly.

You can enter now via the runABC race hub.

Image by Dariusz Chycko from Pixabay