Creag Choinnich Hill Race - Britains oldest recorded hill race

Wednesday 21st June 2017 8pm

Distance 3.5km Climb 250m

Registration/Start at Braemar Castle

Light refreshments available post race.

The history books have Creag Choinnich as the oldest recorded hill race dating back to 1064. Yes 1064! King Malcolm II looking for the fastest man to deliver his despatches arranged the race up Creag Choinnich. The first home was the younger of two MacGregor brothers who received "a handsome sword, a baldric and a purseful of gold" (a baldric is a belt worn like a sash to support a sword).

Fast forward to the Victorian age and the hill race was included in the Braemar Highland Games, that is until Queen Victoria witnessed her ghillie spitting blood after winning the 1850 race. In deference to her sensibilities, the race was suspended thereafter.

The race resumed about ten years ago being run from the Highland Games Park as part of the Junior Highland Games. 

After 2016 the race returned to its former location at Braemar Castle and is now run as an evening race close to the longest day.

• Registration from 7pm
• Toilet and limited changing facilities
• Free car parking
• No showers
• Runners should wear clothing and footwear appropriate for the forecasted conditions on race day
• The course will be marked and marshalled
• No water or feed stations are provided en route
• Light refreshments available post race
• Prize for first male and female
• Entry on day available, although pre-entry preferred.