Back for its seventh year, the increasingly popular Loch Morlich Running Festival will return on 6 January in the heart of the breathtaking Cairngorm National Park and now is the perfect time to make sure you can be part of the fun in what could be your first event of the New Year. The event marks the perfect opportunity to kickstart 2025 with friends and family, whilst pushing yourself to one of the most stunning finish lines in the UK - Loch Morlich Beach.

Organisers, Fitnessat58degrees, say: "This is an event designed for everyone, participants will make their way through the canopy of Glenmore Forest towards the shores of Loch Morlich Beach. Whether in competition or simply for fun, take part with family and friends on our 5K or 10K run!"

Starting at Hayfield, Glenmore, the day will begin with a warm up session led by Fitnessat58° instructor and Team GB athlete, Sam Cairn before runners head out on forest tracks for 5.6K and 11.2K.

Speaking about the unusual distances, organisers say: "Every year, we get feedback about the fact the course is longer than 5K and longer than 10K.  We make this very clear in the pre-event information and this allows us to finish on the beach, we don't feel that we should call the event The Loch Morlich 11.2K. Thank you for your understanding, we did warn you!"

Runners will be guided by marshals towards Loch Morlich beach where they will be greeted by delicious home bakes and a chance to celebrate with their supporters. There will also be a handmade wooden medal to keep as a reminder of the day's success.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Loch Morlich Running Festival website.

Image: Fitnessat58degrees Facebook