Half Marathon Runners To Go Full Distance

Competitors taking part in the 2009 Isle of Skye Half Marathon will, for the first time in 25 years, run a route of exactly 13.1 miles, making it exactly half the distance of an official marathon and giving runners the additional incentive of winning not only the race but also taking the new course record which will be awarded to the fastest male and female.

Now in its 26th year, The Skye Half Marathon originally started and finished at Somerled Square but due to traffic congestion issues, the start was moved to Portree Swimming Pool making the distance of the route 13.8 miles, 0.7 miles further than officially required.

This year organisers have joined forces with The Highland Council so the race, which takes place on Saturday the 13 June, will start and end from Portree High School School.  Not only does this make the distance run official but, for the first time, organisers will be able to provide facilities for competitors, including registration, changing areas and refreshments under one roof.  A free swim will be offered to runners and they will also be able to relieve aching muscles in the sauna and steam rooms.  The prize giving ceremony at the end of the race will be held in the community arts venue within the school.

Local Councillor Drew Millar was one of the original members of the Round Table which instigated the annual event 25 years ago and is still involved on the organising committee.  He said:  “Not only will the distance for this year’s event be officially recognised but the excellent new facilities we are able to use will be a big bonus to all the runners taking part and make the whole day a real event. I know my colleagues at The Highland Council, especially the local Community Learning and Leisure team, are delighted to be involved and we look forward to welcoming runners and their family’s from all over Britain.”

The Isle of Skye Half Marathon is open to runners aged 17 years and over and will start on 13 June at 10.30am from Portree High School.  The closing date for postal entries is 5 June and full details of how to enter are available by telephoning 01478 614061 or e-mailing willie.mackinnon@highland.gov.uk.

A Fun Run of between 2 and 4 kilometres will also be taking place as part of the event and runners of all ages can register to take part on the day between 8.30 and 10.00am.  Children under 8 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.