After dipping its 'hoof' in the Scottish race calendar for 2022 - Wild Deer Events will make a triumphant return in 2023 with events planned once again for both spring and autumn.

Up first on 23 April is the Scone Palace Sprint Duathlon & 10K Trail Run. The palace, which was designed by William Atkinson in the Gothic Revival style and built in red sandstone was completed in 1807. The spectacular grounds include Moot Hill, the crowning place of the Kings of Scots.

If you fancy trying your hand at a multi-sport event, the duathlon will include a sprint and standard version for all fitness levels. Running in the duathlon will be on the mainly firm trail paths of the palace grounds with cycling on the open country roads in this beautiful part of Scotland. Organisers are keen to stress that the event is for all levels of fitness and experience and perfect for any first timers keen to give it a go.

If you'd rather stick to the running, then the 10K Trail Run route is one large lap of the grounds with a mixture of trail, footpath, grass and woodland. Steven Bonthrone won the inaugural race in a time of 43:21 while Lucy Soeder took the womens title in 51:04. 

Dalkeith Country Park will play host to the second event on 17 September. A privately owned 1000 acre estate steeped in history, the setting is stunning and a great location to bring the whole family to (the play park is one of the best in Scotland).

The Wild Deer Scottish Trail Runs will be made up of a Half Marathon, 10K and 5K with finishers receiving an event t-shirt, wooden medal, snacks and a beer or soft drink. Steven Macgregor won the Half Marathon distance in 2022 in 01:31:10 with Eve Bugler first female in 01:34:12. Gregor Ker claimed victory in the 10K in 34:00 with Corrie Roberts taking first in the women's race in 40:31.

You can find out more about both events by visiting the Wild Deer website.

Image: Wild Deer Events