If you've run a marathon (or more) and wonder what it would be like to go that bit further and take on an ultra distance, then the Dava Way is an ideal introduction, with organisers billing it as the 'perfect race to transition from marathons to ultras, or for seasoned ultrarunners looking for a quick 50K time!'.

The Dava Way Ultra links the historic towns of Grantown-on-Spey and Forres, with a 'fun' finish which will show runners the race director's favourite running spots from childhood to make up the 50K distance! The route predominantly follows the old Highland Railway line, which means an off-road yet runnable trail.

The route will take runners around the Anagach Woods, through Grantown-On-Spey and then on to the Dava Way. Mostly following the old Highland Railway Line, it provides traffic-free runnable trails, and has diverse scenery from the Spey at Grantown, through the bleak and empty moorlands around Dava and on into a long descent through the more fertile and pastoral landscapes of Moray around Forres.

A highlight of the route is the Divie Viaduct which is the trail's icon and was saved from demolition by Lord Laing. Runners will also enjoy seeing Huntly's Cove which is a gorge where the second Marquis of Huntly holed up in 1645 as well as two wood sculptures: a dragoon near the summit and a collie dog which used to convey messages. The Breathing Place at Dunphail near the viaduct is a place to stop and appreciate the surroundings.

This race is very much a race which anyone with an interest in ultra racing is welcome to enter. Speaking about the event, organisers say: "We want you to feel part of the Moray Way family! Provided you are over 18 and have some experience with distance running, we would love you to be part of the race.  

"Whether you want to break the course record or have never done an ultra race before this is the race for you!"

You can find out more at the event website here.

Image: Dava Way Ultra