MTC Kelpie

MTC Kelpie Ultra Marathon

The MTC Kelpie is a single day ultra marathon covering a distance of 38 miles. The route begins at Inver Caravan Park in Dunbeath and follows a course that concludes at John O'Groats. This event is part of the Mount to Coast End to End Challenge Series and serves as the ninth and final day of the SCOTIA challenge, a multi-day journey across Scotland.

The course features an approximate ascent of 1,753 feet and a descent of 1,929 feet. Participants must navigate through three specific check-points:

• 8 miles: Lybster
• 16.9 miles: Wick
• 26.1 miles: Wick

The event is held under a strict cup-free policy, requiring participants to carry their own reusable drinking vessels. A minimum average pace of 4 mph is required to remain in the race. Competitor numbers are limited to 20 individual entrants, with an additional 20 spots reserved for those completing the full multi-day series.

Mandatory equipment includes a backpack, head torch with spare batteries, route maps, a compass or GPS device, a whistle, a mobile phone, and an emergency food pack. Finishers receive a bespoke medal, while the male and female winners are awarded trophies. The registration includes tracking via a provided device, allowing for real-time monitoring throughout the duration of the event. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.