An American ultrarunner has just broken the Guinness World Record for completing the fastest marathon in full Scottish Highland Dress – complete with tall socks, jacket, waistcoat, sporran and tie. 

The only concession to sport made by Michael Wardian, from West Virginia, appeared to be his footwear: a pair of Hokas rather than lace-up brogues. 

History does not record what he wore under his kilt. 

Ultra-runner Wardian clocked 3.14.23 over the 26.2 miles in temperatures that started in the high teens and pushed upwards into the 30s.

The previous fastest time for the Highland dress challenge, 3.20.12, was set in 2019 by Adam Keighran at the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival in Australia.   

Wardian, winner of multiple endurance events, US Olympic marathon triallist and US national champion at several ultra distances, also set the world record in 2009 for the fastest marathon completed while pushing a jogging stroller (2.42.21).

Wardian broke the Highland dress record in Ashburn, Virginia, while taking part in Old Dominion Racing’s ‘Scotland Marathon’, a hybrid virtual event taking place in partnership with pubs and breweries in both Northern Virginia and Scotland.

Runners taking part have until 20 June to complete their full marathon, ‘merikos’ (19.65 miles), half marathon, 10k or 5k.

When they’ve finished logging their miles – or even while they’re logging them – registered runners are welcome to stop at race partner establishments for a break. They can also show their wristband in exchange for water, beer, snacks or even a meal.

Participating pubs in Scotland include The Inver Inn (Tain), Street Food Stop (Glasgow) and The Old Forge (Inverie).

True to the Scottish theme, the top male and female runners will receive an ‘authentic five yard Scottish kilt’ in the tartan of their choice.