The 2018 Scottish Islands Peaks Race has officially opened entries for this year’s race, simultaneously launching a fresh new website.

This adventure race is for teams of sailors and fell runners (both youth and adult) and is held annually on and around the most beautiful parts of the west coast of Scotland. The race starts in Oban with a short hill run, then a sail to Salen on Mull, run over Ben More, sail to Craighouse on Jura, run the Paps, sail to Arran, run Goat Fell, then sail to Troon. The race takes 3 to 4 days and caters for multihulls, racers, and cruisers.

Each team consists of 5, usually 2 runners and 3 sailors. There is also an All Rounders class for sailors that can run or runners that can sail, as well as a class for Youth (with the assistance of a few adults).

This year’s race will start at midday on Friday 18 May in Oban, with the first teams expected in to Troon as early as late Saturday night or early Sunday morning.

As with previous years, the race will be tracked live on our website for those wanting to follow along from home.

Feedback from previous competitors: (left on our Facebook page)

“First time competitor! Roped in to a very keen team on Laura. Got bundled into a boat, dragged up and down mountains not sure what happened yet but I think I enjoyed it. Fantastic organisation. Thanks to all the work people put in, all hours in all weather and still smiling at us.”

“An event that will push you to your limits… and possibly beyond what you thought possible. Fantastically well-organised and marshalled, with friendly participants and a stunning, challenging, well-designed course with plenty of running and sailing interest. Strongly recommended to any runners/sailors that want to ‘take it to the next level.'”

“What a fantastic event, great organisation, stunning location and some really tough running – and nearly swimming due to the river crossing at the bottom of Ben More! Won’t forget the last couple of days quickly (and nor will my legs) Hope to be back again next year!”

“I have competed in numerous yacht races, too many to mention, but I always come back to talking about the Peaks Race and the drama, experience we had doing it. It is thanks to you and your team that we competitors get these experiences and memories that last a life time and for that I am truly thankful.”

About the Scottish Islands Peaks Race:

The Scottish Islands Peaks Race is an epic sailing and fell running race that has been in operation since 1983. The race starts in Oban and visits the isles of Mull, Jura, and Arran, with a hill running section on each, before the final finish line in Troon. The race takes 3 to 4 days and caters for multihulls, racers, and cruisers. The sailing course of 160 nautical miles includes the strong tides and overfalls of the Corryvreckan and the Mull of Kintyre, whilst the runners cover 60 miles and 11,500 ft of climbing.

A long weekend with a difference, and a race you will never forget.

more info: scottishislandspeaksrace.com

by Toben Lewis