New marathon for you to consider. Info below is from the race director;
On Sunday, April 13, 2014, the romantic Isle of Islay will host its first marathon, a point-to-point 26.2 mile challenge that will showcase the breathtaking setting of the island. As race director, I can state that this route represents one of the most scenic spots in the world (whitewashed seaside villages, rugged rock-strewn beaches, a shimmering loch, and a ramble through the moors). Having run in over 60 marathons, including Loch Ness and America’s most scenic, Mount Desert Island (Maine), I can honestly say that Islay’s Single Malt Marathon deserves a ranking as one of the world’s most scenic. Please visit:
http://www.lordsoftheisles.com/marathon.htmlThe marathon will raise funds for the children of Islay – the youth pipers and the high school seniors who will make a volunteer trip to a developing country in 2015. All entry fees will be given to this expedition. Each finisher medal will be handcrafted by an islander, making each piece unique and memorable. And, to complete a fun-filled weekend, a ceilidh, a celebration of Gaelic dancing and song, is planned for the evening after the marathon – a rare chance to witness traditional Gaelic culture as well as celebrating your accomplishment with fellow marathoners.
This might also be a chance for one of your elite runners to win a marathon! Due to this being the first time for Islay to host a marathon, the field is limited to 50 runners. Entries will be on a first come, first served basis. Don’t wait since the race may fill quickly. And, make your hotel or B&B reservations soon as well.
And, to add a new wrinkle, a golf/marathon challenge will also be held. Please pass this unusual opportunity on to any of your runners who also play golf. Again, it’s offered on a first come, first served basis. Currently ten spots remain open. Visit:
http://www.lordsoftheisles.com/And, why not stay a few extra days for a holiday? There’s plenty to do on Islay, often referred to as “Queen of the Hebrides.” Besides having eight single malt distilleries, the island offers spectacular scenery, ancient stone circles and standing stones, the famous Kildalton Cross, and the Oa, a peninsula rich in Islay history and wildlife. Numerous hiking trails will let you explore cliffs and caves galore, ancient chapels, abandoned crofting villages, burial cairns from the Stone Age and maybe glimpses of highland cattle roaming the beach or golden sea eagles soaring above grey seals perched on rocks.
We’re hoping you can join us for this wonderful cause on Islay in April.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bob Kroeger, marathon director