The Bennachie Ultra Trail Race is more than just an event; it’s a remarkable journey through the scenic beauty of Aberdeenshire, a test of one’s endurance, and a chance to connect with the extraordinary running community. As I arrived in the predawn darkness, my heart was pounding with excitement, and my trusty Innov-8 Trailfly 290’s were ready for the challenge that lay ahead.
At the registration, I had the pleasure of interacting with two lovely marshals, Karen Simpson and Amanda Anderson. Their enthusiasm and the buzz in the air were contagious, as runners from various backgrounds gathered, feeling a mixture of excitement and trepidation. As the first light of dawn began to lift the shadows, we all huddled together for the pre-race briefings, listening attentively to instructions and sharing a moment of anticipation.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this race is the profound sense of camaraderie among runners. As the sun started to rise, I had the privilege of catching up with familiar faces from the running community. Names like Jamie (Pallister), Graham (Moar), Stuart (Ross), Gail (Irvine), Susan (Naysmith), Paul (Anderson), Rory (Jack), Tom (Martin), and Harriet (Cross), familiar and friendly, added a layer of comfort and support to the day. This race is a testament to the power of like-minded individuals coming together to share in the adventure.
The race officially began, with a single trail leading us through a tranquil wooded section as the sun ascended over the surrounding fields. The morning air was crisp, and I felt remarkably fresh, quickly finding my rhythm. The path wound around the base of Bennachie, providing an enchanting experience despite the wet conditions underfoot. The scenery was nothing short of spectacular.
Around the 10–11-kilometer mark, the ultra and trail runners diverged, each taking on their own unique challenges. For me, this marked the beginning of a wonderful journey. The trail led to a technical climb to the summit of Black Hill (431m), with a stile along the way that could have easily been a source of wrong turns. Afterward, the route continued to the summit of Hermit Seat (478m), and then the true test of stamina began with a scramble climb up Oxen Craig (529m). The marshy terrain made it challenging, but the rugged beauty of the landscape was undeniable.
As we continued our run, we faced challenging conditions across the mountaintops. The wind was relentless, blowing at an astonishing 34 kilometers per hour, with a wind chill of -1°C. But we, the runners, stood strong and undeterred. I have to tip my hat (literally) to the dedicated volunteers who braved the elements to guide us along the way, shouting directions above the howling winds.
The next climb led us towards Mither Tap (518m), a renowned viewpoint on the northeast skyline. The paths here were well-trodden, and despite the strong headwind, the running was good. The panoramic views over Aberdeenshire were well worth the effort, and they served as a constant reminder of the beauty that surrounded us.
Our route then led us back towards Oxen Craig before joining the Gordon Way, taking us on a descent down Waymurr Ridge and down Bruntwood Tap (411m) before rejoining the Gordon Way. This part of the trail was technical, featuring a steep descent. However, this was my favorite section of the course, and I couldn’t help but wear a smile on my face throughout.
The path eventually descended and brought us to the finish line through the discovery trail, marking the end of an incredible journey. I completed the race in 3 hours, 1 minute, and 53 seconds, securing the 14th overall position and the 3rd spot in my age group—a result I’m immensely proud of.
Looking back on the day, there were certainly highs and lows. Notably, I felt strong throughout the race, which I attribute to my strength and conditioning training. My fueling strategy worked effectively, allowing me to run the majority of the course, a significant personal achievement.
However, there were also moments of introspection and self-reflection. As I watched the ultrarunners, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of envy and jealousy, realizing that I had approached the race with an underestimation of the challenging mountain. It was a humbling reminder that the mountain demands respect and should never be taken lightly.
After the race, I had the opportunity to debrief with fellow runners like Stuart, Graham, and others. We shared stories and laughter, underscoring the unique sense of community that makes these events so special. Sinclair Bakery and Craig’s Soup provided a fantastic feed, reenergizing us after our impressive feats.
The race concluded on a high note with a generous goodie bag. It included a refreshing beer from Speyside Brewery, a warm and snug bobble hat, and a well-deserved medal – a tangible reminder of the accomplishment.
In retrospect, the Bennachie Ultra Trail Race is not just about running; it’s a journey of personal growth, a celebration of community, and an opportunity to connect with the extraordinary beauty of nature. As I headed home for lunch and some well-deserved soft play, I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound experiences and the invaluable life lessons that this race had to offer. It’s a journey that goes far beyond the physical, and it’s a testament to the incredible strength, determination, and support that define the running community.
Special thanks to Rod, Andrew and Adam for directing a fantastic and great race. The day was most enjoyable ( maybe the 17.5mile was better than the 31Mile) but either route your in for a treat. Thanks to the volunteers and marshalls – without you there is no race.
Thanks for reading
James