Get Training For This Railway Ultra!
This North East ultra run has lots to offer, including some hairy running companions...
The world of ultra running is becoming more accessible for runners looking to take a step up from marathon distances and one event company looking to help runners do just that is TAY&RAM Running Events whose Formartine & Buchan Railway 12 Hour Ultra is all set for 6 May 2023.
This North East event starts at Maud Station beside the famous railway museum and takes runners along the flat runnable trail path towards Auchnagatt, covering a rough distance of 4.3 miles. Runners are guaranteed to see some 'Highland coos' on their way but caution is advised as they have been known to enjoy a walk on the line!
Although the route is as flat as you would expect from a railway line there is a slight incline in both directions to the midway point (approximately 100ft per direction). That aside, as the route is flat organisers suggest they are expecting some big distances to be covered by the more experienced and faster runners. Both race directors have used the railway line as their training ground over the years and suspect that faster runners could possibly achieve 80-90 miles, it all depends who has the 'guts and determination on the day'.
The event was created by Gavin Taylor & Kevin Mottram both of whom are experienced ultra runners with an intention to create a tough, challenging and fun event in the North East of Scotland. Speaking of their race, they said: "The idea came about during discussions whilst travelling back and forth between different races throughout Scotland and we noticed at the time there were a lack of ultras in the North East and wanted to incorporate our ideas back into our local community.
"As the route is flat this type of event opens the door to the non-experienced distance runner looking to step up into the ultra distances. The route will utilise both Maud and Auchnagatt stations for fuelling which means you can travel light knowing well you are not too far away from fuel and a friendly kick up the arse from your support crew."
If you'd like to know more about the Formartine & Buchan Railway 12 Hour Ultra then visit the TAY&RAM Running Events website.
Image: TAY&RAM Running Events