Race Map & Route Description
The legs are of varying difficulties and teams should allocate the legs according to individual strengths and weaknesses. For example participant two could be their fittest cyclist as leg 6 is the most challenging cycling leg.
- Participant 1 will complete legs 1 and 5
- Participant 2 will complete legs 2 and 6
- Participant 3 will complete legs 3 and 7
- Participant 4 will complete legs 4 and 8
Leg 1 - Dawn Break Heartache - Inverness to Blackfold
Distance: 9 km, Difficulty Rating: 8, Average time: 55 mins
An easy start for the first 2km, as the course follows the canal before joining the Great Glen Way. The run then works its way up the Great Glen Way with a tough 3km climb. Running through woodlands, the path flattens out for the final 3km.
Leg 2 - Tuff Moor - Blackfold to Abriachan
Distance: 8.1 km, Difficulty Rating: 6, Average Time: 40 mins
The easiest run on the course. However, it still tougher than your average 8km road run! A undulating run along the Great Glen Way, through the moorland and overlooking stunning scenery. Fairly exposed to the elements, so could become more difficult if windy.
Leg 3 - Long Way Down - Abriachan to Drumnadrochit
Distance: 11.5 km, Difficulty Rating: 8, Average Time: 64 mins
A long run that starts with a steady climb for 2km. The terrain is a little rough, so be careful. The course then works its way down the Great Glen Way, through the forest and ends at Drumnadrochit. This is one for somebody who is used to running for at least an hour.
Leg 4 - Hell ‘n’ Back - Drumnadrochit to Alltsigh
Distance: 14.8 km, Difficulty Rating: 9, Average Time: 120 mins
A really tough run. The run starts with a hard 3km uphill section. The run then flattens out as it works its way along the Great Glen Way. The last 8km are through beautiful forest, with extraordinary views of Loch Ness. However, be prepared for some sweeping downhill sections followed by some very steep hills. The course winds its way down through the trees to the Loch at Altsigh. Can you break two hours for this?
Leg 5 - Mountain Mayhem - Alltsigh to Fort Augustus
Distance: 21.6 km, Difficulty Rating: 9, Average Time: 100 mins
A tough off road cycle that follows the Great Glen Way all the way to Fort Augustus. With several steep sections, this leg is a real test of endurance. However, respite comes in the form of long sweeping downhill sections through the forest providing fantastic views of Loch Ness. This leg suits a mountain bike or if weather conditions are good, a hybrid bike. Make sure you are an experienced off road cyclist, as some of the down hill sections are steep and slippery.
Leg 6 - Nessie’s Revenge - Fort Augustus to Foyers
Distance: 23 km, Difficulty Rating: 10 (plus a little bit more!), Average Time: 75 mins
One for the masochist. Make sure you put your strongest cyclist on this leg. Starting on the banks of the Loch at Fort Augustus, the ride starts with a relentless uphill climb for 10km. With several false crests, this is a test of physical strength and mental toughness. If the rider can appreciate it, the scenery is stunning. Once at the top, the next 12km is mainly downhill. However, don’t rest on your laurels as the last 3km has a couple of cheeky little climbs. Good luck – you will need it!
Leg 7 - Loch’s Edge - Foyers to Dores
Distance: 18.6 km, Difficulty Rating: 7, Average Time: 50 mins
One for the Nessie watchers. A tough opening climb followed by a beautiful ride along the banks of Loch Ness. An undulating course, with long downhill stretches and small steep climbs. This leg is exposed to the elements and will become more difficult if the wind gets up.
Leg 8 - Final Flurry - Dores to Inverness
Distance: 13.6 km, Difficulty Rating: 6, Average Time: 40 mins
The easiest cycle on the course. A flat ride back into Inverness. Competitors cross the river on a footbridge before cycling back to the sports centre to cross the finish line, and enjoy the glory of crossing the finish line. This is one for those who enjoy cycling flat out!
