Format
The Highlander Mountain Marathon follows a unique and challenging two-day race format that blends endurance running, navigation skills, and outdoor survival. Designed to test both physical and mental strength, the format ensures participants must be self-reliant, strategic, and resilient to succeed.
Two-Day Structure
The Highlander Mountain Marathon is split into two distinct stages:
- Day One: Competitors start at designated times, using a map and compass to navigate between checkpoints across varied Highland terrain. Each team must plot their own route based on the checkpoints assigned to their category. The day ends at a designated overnight camp, where participants set up camp and prepare for the following day’s challenge.
- Day Two: After camping overnight, competitors return to the course for the second stage. The goal is to navigate to the finish line, collecting the required checkpoints en route. The combined time from both days determines the team’s final ranking.
Checkpoints and Navigation
Navigation is a core aspect of the event. Participants are provided with a detailed map at the start, which marks the various checkpoints they must visit. The checkpoints vary in difficulty and may be located on steep ridges, in deep glens, or across open moorland.
- Route Planning: Teams are responsible for planning their own routes, balancing distance, elevation, and terrain.
- Timing: Each checkpoint is assigned a value (in Score Class) or follows a mandatory sequence (in linear classes such as Elite, A, B, and C).
- Time Limits: Teams must complete each stage within the allotted time to avoid penalties.
Self-Sufficiency Requirement
Participants must carry everything they need for both days, including:
- Camping Equipment: Tents, sleeping bags, and cooking gear for the overnight stay.
- Food and Water: Enough provisions for both racing days and the camp.
- Safety Equipment: First aid kits, emergency shelter, and spare clothing are compulsory for all participants.
Being self-reliant in this way adds a critical survival element to the race, testing competitors’ ability to manage their energy, hydration, and gear in challenging conditions.
Team Format
The Highlander Mountain Marathon is a pairs-only event. Each team must stick together throughout the race, ensuring both members arrive at each checkpoint and finish line together. This format prioritises teamwork, with successful teams balancing their strengths, decision-making, and navigation skills.
Scoring and Results
- Linear Classes (Elite, A, B, C): Teams must visit checkpoints in a set order, with total time determining the overall ranking.
- Score Class: Teams select their own routes, choosing which checkpoints to visit within a time limit. Points are awarded based on checkpoint value, with teams scoring the highest points ranked highest.
Overnight Camp
The overnight camp is a critical part of the format. Located in a remote area, it offers minimal facilities. Teams must pitch their tents, cook their meals, and prepare for the following day’s challenge.
- Competitors must arrive at camp with sufficient energy reserves to recover overnight.
- Sharing experiences and socialising with fellow competitors is often a highlight of the camp experience.
Time Penalties and Disqualification
To ensure fair play and safety, strict rules apply:
- Missed Checkpoints: Teams that miss checkpoints face heavy time penalties or disqualification.
- Over Time Limit: Exceeding the set time limit may result in penalties or exclusion from the results.
- Failure to Carry Essential Equipment: Mandatory gear checks ensure all competitors are properly equipped. Failing these checks may result in disqualification.
Final Thoughts
The carefully structured format of the Highlander Mountain Marathon strikes a perfect balance between endurance racing, strategic navigation, and self-reliance. By blending physical exertion with mental challenges, it provides a rewarding and memorable experience for competitors of all abilities. Preparing for this format is key — from mastering map reading to ensuring your camping gear is up to the task. Those who embrace the challenge often leave with a deep sense of achievement and memories to last a lifetime.