Marathon, 10K and 5K will be Loch Ness monsters

People looking for a physical challenge but with amazing scenery still have time on their side to enter the Baxters River Ness 10K and 5K.

There’s still time to enter and train for the events, which are taking place on Sunday 23 September.

These two race distances offer the perfect opportunity for runners and fitness enthusiasts alike to join in with one of the UK’s most scenic and popular running events.

The River Ness 10K and 5K follow a flat, point-to-point course through the historic Highland capital of Inverness alongside the banks of the picturesque River Ness.

Renowned for their ‘personal best’ potential, these shorter distances are appealing for those experienced runners looking to return to better their previous times or those running novices looking for an achievable and enjoyable running challenge.

Corporate teams from across Scotland will also take to the streets as they take part in the Baxters 10K Corporate Challenge which is open to all businesses and organisations in the public and private sector.

There’s also the Wee Nessie race, which is open to pre-school children aged five and under, that follows a short circular route in the enclosed Bught Park providing youngsters with the perfect introduction to the sport.

Runners will pass through Inverness, along the banks of the River Ness

Race director Malcolm Sutherland said: ‘We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone to this year’s Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running weekend. The event has been growing in popularity year on year with runners of all abilities and age groups represented.

‘The 10K, 5K and Wee Nessie are the perfect opportunity for those looking to take on a new challenge with family or friends whilst enjoying a great day out.’

Hosted by Scottish television and radio presenter Bryan Burnett, the two-day festival of running weekend promises a packed family friendly agenda.

There is the new Runners Café which opens on Saturday 22 September from 10am to 6pm as well as the Baxters Food and Drink Fayre, Scotland’s largest Expo dedicated to runners, kids’ activities and live music, with free entry for all.

Malcolm added: ‘The weekend offers so much more than a spectator event as there’s a plethora of festivities served up with great food and drink from a great selection of street food vendors as well as a series of Expo talks, conversation with runners from around the world and lively Scottish music to enjoy.’

Entry to all races is open now until 3 September HERE.

For those still wishing to enter the Loch Ness Marathon, places are available via the event’s official charities and for club and overseas runners.