Moray Hits 30

2 SEP2011

While the focus of this weekend's racing coverage will be on the Great Scottish Run, the longest running marathon in Scotland will celebrate its thirtieth year on Sunday, September 4. A 3-in-1 event, the Moray Marathon offers competitors the chance to participate in a 10k, half-marathon, or marathon.

Starting in Elgin, the race offers a break from the urban setting, with runners likely to encounter sandy and rocky shores, rivers, lochs and mountainous areas across the Moray landscape. The race will follow a clockwise loop as the marathon starts and finishes at Cooper Park, with the 13th century Elgin Cathedral forming a dramatic backdrop for the race finale.

In last year's event, Steven Reid, of Fife AC, won the men's race, completing the marathon in a time of 2:45:57. The fastest female competitor was Kate Jenkins of Hunters Bog Trotters, finishing in 3:01.15. The course record currently stands at 2:21:17 and 2:49:43 for the male and female events respectively.

With an expected 350 strong field, the race is sure to mark its milestone event in style. In addition, there is an extensive prize list with one prize per winner and a Commemorative medal for all participating.

The beginning of the races will be staggered, with the Marathon beginning at 9:30am in Cooper Park. The half-marathon will commence at 11:00am at Gordonstoun School, while the 10k will start at the same time but at Lossiemouth. All races end at Cooper Park. For more information, visit the event website.