Ultra X Scotland by Pack Performance takes place in the Scottish Highlands, a mountainous region in northwest Scotland known for its stunning scenery and trails, with the Great Glen and Loch Ness at its centre. It offers four event distances: 110km over two stages (Saturday & Sunday), a 60km (Saturday), 50km (Sunday) and 25km (Sunday) event.
Following a geological fault line formed more than 400 million years ago, the Great Glen runs arrow-straight from Fort William to Moray Firth. Surrounded by some of the UK’s highest mountains and filled with four immense lochs, including the mythical Loch Ness, the glen is a unique wilderness rich in Highland heritage.
Having supported my husband last year on the 50k event, I desperately wanted to give an ultra a go. Training was going well until an issue with my heart meant a 3 week pause and a tough decision of either withdrawal or take a cautious approach and walk more than run. Adjusting my strategy paid off, and I felt strong throughout.
The route started in Fort Augustus with the Piper playing 650 runners off the start line. Immediately we were met with 6 miles of epic hills before reaching the summit and the breathtaking sights of the Loch which glimmered in the chilly Highland sunshine.
Challenging terrain and brutal descents tested both skills and confidence. The route followed woodland, fields, fire tracks and across babbling brooks before ending in Dores, where runners could look back over the Loch and on the distant horizon see the start line.
I finished in 8:52. First male finished in an incredible 3:59 and first female 4:23.
No sign of Nessie this time. I’ll try again next year!