Senior

A circular run starting on wild Loch Na Keal. A mile along the road takes you to the steep climb of the first top of the day clearly seen from the start (manned checkpoint 1). A short hop takes you to Beinn Ghraig and to a breathtaking path (not that you will be admiring the views) to the col at 547362. Contour Beinn nan Gabhar and then climb the obvious grassy gully (obvious if not misty) to Beinn Fhada summit (manned checkpoint 2). Descend the Fhada scree slopes by first heading to Loch na Keal from the summit then heading direct south to the ‘Scottish Island Peaks race’ col at 538344 (manned checkpoint 3) and then take the direct route up to A’Cioch (manned checkpoint 4). Descend to the Ben More col and head straight for the summit by following the path as it climbs the south facing slopes and meets a chimney that takes you almost to the top (manned checkpoint 5). NOTE THE A’COICH AND BEN MORE RIDGES ARE ‘RUNNABLE’ BUT REQUIRE ATTENTION AND CARE. THE BEN MORE RIDGE CAN BE TAKEN DIRECT BUT REQUIRES SOME DIFFICULT SCRAMBLING. Take the ‘tourist track’ down from the summit to the Dhiseig burn and directly contour to the Finish/Start at the Fada Bridge. Take a well deserved jump from the rock into the beckoning deep fresh water pool!

The alternative weather route (gales) will follow the usual race to the ‘Scottish Islands Peaks Race’ col and then run directly to the start/finish at Loch Na Keal (missing the scramble of A’Chioch and the Ben).

Youth

Start on south side of Fada bridge and head up to the water falls at 517358 to the manned checkpoint. Return by same route.

2 miles, 150 meters.

Junior

Also start at the south side of Fada bridge and go up the same path as Youths but turn at the first manned checkpoint at 512363. 1 mile, 100 meters.

TRANSPORT

Due to higher numbers this year (last year there where 12) registration will be at Salen Church. The race start time will allow for runners to take the 0930 Oban ferry arriving at Craignure for 1015 and take the public Bowmans bus to Salen and walk to the primary school for registration. There is an earlier ferry if people prefer. Alternatively there is the more frequent and scenic Lochaline/Fishnish ferry. People can then be minibused the 6 miles to the start and driven back after the race to the churchl for refreshments. Prizegiving will be at the school for 1630 allowing people to catch the 1800 bus back to the ferry. Again there is the earlier 1700 ferry if people want to get back earlier.

Therefore there is no need to bring the car on the Island although if you intend to bring the car and even make a weekend trip then remember to book the Ferry in advance if coming from Oban on 01680 812 343.

WEATHER

Wish we could arrange that one! The first Mull Monster (the full length of Mull) was a real pea souper form head to tail. The second run of the Monsterette called for the alternative route to be run. The third and fourth races gave idyllic sunbathing around the Fada pools. So be prepared!

ACCOMODATION

Wild camping at Loch Na Keal is amazing although there is a camp site on the other side of the shore at Kiliechronan. B&B will be busy so phone the Tourist Board now if required 08707 200 610.

Important information

1. Apart from the 5 Manned checkpoints, the course will not be marked.
2. Experience and navigational skills required. If there is mist then confidence with a map is paramount (there are some magnetic anomalies especially around Ben More so compass direction is not always dependable).
3. There will be an alternative adverse weather course (gales) that will follow the usual course but turn at the ‘Scottish Islands Peaks Race’ col and head directly for the Start/Finish.
4. There will be a basic marquee at the Fada bridge Start/Finish but no toilet facilities (although plenty of open hill side!).
5. The following equipment MUST be carried (there will be checks):
• Windproof complete body cover
• Other body cover appropriate for the weather conditions.
• Suitable map and compass.
• Whistle
6. IF YOU RETIRE, YOU MUST REPORT TO THE START/FINISH.
7. Changing facilities available at the school along with tea and cakes (money to local St Johns Ambulance).