Heart of Granite

Heart of Granite

Heart of Granite is a circular mountain race of 32 km / 20 miles with 1850 m of ascent in the Galloway hills, starting and finishing at Caldons old campsite in Glen Trool, Newton Stewart (DG8 6SU, OS Grid Ref NX 40027 78951). The route passes named features including Curleywee, the Rig of Jarkness and the Murder Hole, with summits such as Craiglee and Merrick and checkpoints on the Southern Upland Way.

The course heads from Caldons up the valley to Lamachan, follows a ridge to Curleywee, drops to the Axe Head stone checkpoint for food and water, climbs to Craiglee, crosses a plateau, then descends along the Rig of Jarkness to a manned checkpoint. The route continues past the Murder Hole to the base of the Old Grey Man of Merrick, climbs to the summit of Merrick, then descends to Bruce's Stone and returns along the valley to Caldons, where finishers are offered hot soup and cakes. Total distance and ascent are as stated above.

The event is marshalled and supported by Galloway Mountain Rescue, who staff checkpoints, provide first aid cover and serve refreshments at the finish. The race carries a permit from Scottish Hill Runners and is run under SHR rules. Entry requires participants to be at least 18 years old and to have fell running experience and navigation skills because the event may be held in winter conditions. Mandatory kit includes map, compass, whistle, waterproof top and bottoms with taped seams, head torch, hat and gloves. Entry fee is £25.00. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.