For the last Salomon Skyline Scotland in Kinlochleven, the Mamores Stalker 27km Trail Running Race of 2023 was certainly memorable! The race was part of the Golden Trail National Series, and there were three further trail races on Sunday morning, proving hugely popular with runners of all abilities.
Despite the rain adding an extra level of challenge, the fabulous Scottish views were still enjoyed by all. When I received the opportunity to race in the UK's biggest weekend of trail running and sky running in Glencoe, Scotland, I jumped at the chance, even though it was less than 48 hours from the race start and it would take me over 14 hours to make the journey up to the Scottish highlands.
The views did not disappoint – the scenery was simply breathtaking. It w
as my first time visiting Scotland, and the road from Glasgow to Glencoe, the A82, was mind-blowing. I entered the race HQ on the morning of the race, which was quite novel. Fresh from my race week trip to Chamonix, I was excited at the start line, with no idea what was in front of me on the course, but ready to take up the challenge.
I started strong with a steep climb within less than 400m from the start line. I made good progress through the field and found myself at the front of the race with Scotland's legendary trail runner Robbie Simpson. We exchanged words of encouragement to each other, and shortly after, Robbie put in a surge, and I found my
self on my own ahead of the chasing pack but couldn't see Robbie. This is when the race took a turn for the worse. I took a wrong turn; instead of turning left, I kept running straight, further up the mountain and into the wilderness. The Kinlochleven terrain was very wet and boggy, and there was a mist at the top, and it became very cold. I took out my survival blanket and wrapped it around me as I tried to find my bearings.
I hadn't got my phone or a watch, so I had no idea how long I had been running for. Eventually, a mountain biker who had raced this course a year before appeared and helped me find the course again. The winner, Robbie, had passed the finish line in 2 hours and 16 minutes. I eventually crossed the line 2 hours and 20 minutes later! I have no idea how far I ran, but I estimate it must have been over 40k.
I wasn't going to give up and finished, annoyed at my mistake but happy to have experienced this race. While it was the last race at Kinlochleven, I will return in 2025 to get revenge.
Best David.
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