Posted: February 18, 2005

Athletics: Lochness A Monster Hit With Runners

The Runners World (UK) online race survey featured a wide range of events from throughout the UK, with readers rating them according to a number of different criteria including scenery, organisation and atmosphere; 98% said they would take part in the Loch Ness Marathon again.

Entry for the 2005 Baxters Loch Ness Marathon & Festival of Running is now open and online at www.lochnessmarathon.com. This year's Festival, taking place on Sunday 2nd October, is promising to be one of sporting prowess, fun and festivities with Highland hospitality at its very best.

Following the success of last year's marathon ballot, organisers are again holding a ballot system whereby non-charity runners have until 1st May 2005 to apply for a ballot place. After this date only places booked via one of the Marathon's nominated or associated charities will be available. There are guaranteed places for UK Athletics / Scottish Athletics and overseas runners until 1st September.

The inaugural Baxters River Ness 10K proved so popular last year that organisers are encouraging early entry to avoid disappointment.

Runners can choose to run for one of six nominated charities – Highland Hospice, Leonard Cheshire, Maggie's Cancer Care Centres, Marie Curie Cancer Care, MS Society Scotland and the Scottish Community Foundation – or choose from over 30 associated national and Scottish charities.

Malcolm Sutherland, Race Director, said: "We're delighted to receive this accolade which is testament to the marathon's increasing popularity, and we're particularly thrilled that the inaugural 10K appealed to so many. With the 5K Fun Run we now have a race for everyone, which combined with the spectacular Highland scenery, and festival atmosphere has captured the imagination of runners worldwide. We've had excellent feedback from our runners and with plans already well underway for 2005, we are expecting a large field again this year. We also hope that runners will consider running for one of our official charities."

For further race information or to enter the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon, River Ness 10K or River Ness 5K Fun Run visit: www.lochnessmarathon.com Or call: 0870 127 8000 (national call rates apply)