Run Balmoral
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James & George Collie 15 Mile Trail Race
The James & George Collie 15 Mile Trail Race is a hilly trail run of 15 miles on the Balmoral Estate near Ballater, Aberdeenshire. The route begins in view of Balmoral Castle, follows the River Dee westward, climbs through the Ballochbuie pine forest and, at around mile 8, leaves the river to ascend toward the base of Lochnagar with approximately 120 meters of ascent. The final three miles descend back toward the castle but include a notable final section near the finish.
The surface is mostly Land Rover track; the last mile can be muddy and the course runs through exposed country, so runners should expect variable weather conditions. There are distance markers at every mile and two water stations located at Connachat House. Toilets are available at the start and finish; there are male and female changing tents but no showers. Massage is available adjacent to the information tent.
Entries cost £29 (£27 for Scottish Athletics members). All entrants must be 18 or over on race day. Entries close on 7 April or sooner if the event sells out. Entry includes a finisher’s medal, electronic timing, a downloadable finisher’s certificate and free parking. Race packs, containing the race number with timing chip, instructions and safety pins, are dispatched about 1-2 weeks before the event; overseas packs are available for collection at the information tent. The maximum finish time for the 15 miles is 3.5 hours. Headphones are not permitted except bone conductor types at the runner’s risk. Transfers between races are not allowed. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.