Last chance to enter Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and festival of running
The clock is clicking down and there's only a few days left before entries close for this year's Baxters Loch Ness marathon and festival of running.
Some of the country's best road racers will be joining thousands of club athletes and recreational runners of all ages and abilities in the popular Highlandevent which will be held on Sunday 29th September.
But if you want to be part of this exciting occasion, you'll need to get off your marks sharply as entries for the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon, River Ness10K and 5K Fun Run will close at midnighton Monday 9th September.
The Baxters Loch Ness marathon, now in its 12th year, takes centre stage in the festival as it hosts the Scottish championships for the third year in a row. The top athletes will be battling for the honour of winning the national titles while the men's and women's champions will also pocket £1500 cash awards as part of a total prize purse of £6,100 for the leading finishers. There's also a substantial masters prize fund up for grabs with vouchers totalling £1,200 available in the over-40's, over-50's and over-60's age divisions.
The accompanying Baxter's River Ness 10K also offers an attractive prize pot totalling £1,400 in cash for the top three men and women plus a further £720 of voucher prizes for the top three masters, men and women, (over-40, over-50 and over-60).
The 10K also features a Corporate team challenge in which trophies will be awarded to the top three sides.
The festival of running offers something for all the family as well, with the programme of events also including the Baxters River Ness 5K Fun Run for all ages and the Wee Nessie 400m for youngsters aged five and under.
Race Director Malcolm Sutherland hopes no-one will miss out on the chance to take part in what has become an iconic running event attracting participants from all over Britainand from more than 30 other countries.
He said:" The entry figures for all the races are extremely healthy and we are really looking forward to what promises to be another great occasion.
"I'd urge anyone who wants to take part to submit their entry as soon as possible as the 9th September deadline is fast approaching."
Sutherland and his team are introducing two new features to the event this year which will add to the vibrancy and excitement of the race weekend.
He said: "On the eve of the race , Saturday 28th September, BBC Radio Scotland presenter and London 2012 commentator Bryan Burnett will host a 'Carbo Loading and Craic Show' at the Baxters Pasta Party.
“Bryanis to chat with experts who offer advice on hydration and nutrition and there will be tips on how to control your race day nerves. There will also be a guide to the Loch Ness course and a marathon mastermind quiz with great prizes to be won.
"We'll also have a bigger sports expo this year on the Saturday and Sunday at the Event Villagein Bught Park."
Entries for all races can be made at www.lochnessmarathon.com