Over 5100 runners to take on Loch Ness Marathon as Inverness are preparing for the second biggest number of entries in the event's history

INVERNESS will welcome over 5100 runners as the Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running is preparing for the second biggest number of entries in its history on Sunday.

The 21st edition of the event includes the marathon, River Ness 10K, 10K Corporate Challenge, River Ness 5K and Wee Nessie.

Athletes from 45 countries will be taking part in the event with 55 per cent of entrants coming from outside Scotland.

A total of 12 per cent are from outside the United Kingdom, including the USA, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, Italy, Israel, China, Thailand and the Philippines.

Event and race director Malcolm Sutherland is pleased with the number of people taking part in the event.

He said: “Entry to this year’s event is up significantly on 2021 and 2022 to pre-Covid levels.

“As one of the world’s most scenic marathons, I’m delighted to be welcoming people from all over the world to experience the event for themselves.

“As always, the runners will be supported along the way by our fantastic team and amazing volunteers.”

The River Ness 5k starts at Bught Park at 9.30am with the winner expected at 9.45am.

The start of the River Ness 10k starts at 10.30am.

The winner is expected to cross the finish line at 10.55 am.

The Loch Ness Marathon winner is expected to finish at 12.15pm

Highland Hill Runners athlete Shaun Cumming is considered to be in the running to be the first man from Inverness to win the Loch Ness Marathon.

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