Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Do I need to be a good navigator?
A. The route follows trails, tracks and paths and will be well marshalled and marked with high visibility flags and direction arrows. It is not intended to be a navigational event but anyone racing should be aware that weather conditions can deteriorate quickly and you should possess the basic skills required to navigate using a map and compass.
Q. What is the terrain like?
A. Quite simply put – its very varied. We will cover hillside, lochside, lots of forest and open moorland. Paths, trails and tracks are dry, wet, firm, muddy – a bit of everything!
Q. What footwear is considered appropriate for the terrain?
A. For those aiming to run more than they will walk, then trail shoes would probably be the best compromise. For those who prefer to walk or have weaker ankles than a lightweight walking boot would be worthy of consideration. Fell shoes might be the ideal shoes for about 60% of the course, but conversely totally inappropriate for the remainder. Road shoes the other way around.
Q. What wild animals are we likely to encounter and should I be worried.
A. The route boasts an abundance of wildlife and it is going to be practically impossible not to encounter various types of Deer, Wild Goats, Red Squirrels and Eagles. None of this wildlife is likely to pose any form of risk and being in their environment should be embraced and enjoyed.
Q. Cooking – what’s the deal?
A. Athletes are responsible for preparing all their food throughout the event. Water (unheated) is the only thing provided to the athletes at the mid camps. All athletes should consider leaving their stoves etc in the camp village.
Q. How do we get to the race?
A. On 1st December 2012 we will release the route and start point. This will include information on transport. We will have a central camp village so we finish where we start. You will not need to make your way back to the start point after the race to collect your vehicle and gear.
Q. When do we need to arrive?
A. The race starts on Saturday 12th May in the Scottish Borders. All athletes will need to be at registration for 0730hrs for pre race admin.
Q. Midges?
A. Scotland is renowned for them. They start to surface mid May so we may see some early risers. Although we hope to see very few a head net would be a very useful addition to your kit list.
Q. I would like to think I am fairly fit, but is it realistic to expect to be able to run the whole course, if I was to walk much of it could I expect to be disqualified for slowness?
A. Absolutely no problem at all with walking. We realise standards vary from one athlete to another and Ddily time limits will be generous to allow all who have the will to finish to get to the end.
