Runners looking to head over the sea to Skye for the island's scenic half-marathon had better set their alarms early for Sunday morning: entries for the much loved race will open at 9am sharp.

Already postponed from an October 2020 and then a June 2021 date, the next Isle of Skye Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, 11 September.

Organisers Skye Events warn that as capacity will be 'signifcantly reduced' to 400 runners to accommodate both transferred entries and social distancing requirements, the 2021 Isle of Skye Half Marathon, will be expected to sell out quickly. 

Nearly 1000 runners signed up for the 2019 edition of the race, ‘famed for its community feel and friendliness’, of whom 700 finished – including the winner, Aberdeen AAC's Will Mackay (1.11.37).

As usual, the 1.6m Fun Run, the largest event of its kind on the island, will start immediately after the half-marathon. Taking runners through roads closed for the main event and ‘quiet Portree back streets’, the Fun Run is open to everyone over the age of five, with registered adult accompaniment for under eights. Children under five can join in the fun in the Toddler Dash, held next to the event venue.  

Entries to the Fun Run must be made online and close at noon on 11 June.

As part of the build-up to entries going live this weekend, organisers have announced the launch of a new online shop, with sustainability to the fore. Runners can purchase Peta Vegan approved, ecologically friendly cotton hoodies, organic cotton caps, Fairtrade organic cotton kit bags (‘big enough for a pair of trainers and a change of clothes’) and 500/750ml water bottles – all with impeccable environmental and ethical credentials. Any race merchandise ordered can be posted, or picked up on race day.

Image courtesy: Isle of Skye Half Marathon