Race Across Scotland

Race Across Scotland (RAS 215)

Race Across Scotland is a 215 mile (346 km) coast-to-coast ultramarathon following the Southern Upland Way. The route starts at Portpatrick and finishes at Cockburnspath, with an approximate overall distance to the finish of 220 miles due to checkpoint deviations. Total ascent on the race route is listed as 7,218 m.

The route is supported by 12 checkpoints spaced along the Southern Uplands. Runners must be self-sufficient between checkpoints; refreshments and hot food are provided at many village-hall style checkpoints while some bothies offer no facilities. A low-level alternative route may be used in high winds or severe weather to avoid specific high sections; GPX files are provided for both the high-level and low-level options. Live tracking is used during the event but the tracking feed is separate from official race timing.

Entry is by application only. Participants must be at least 20 years old on race day, demonstrate prior endurance/ultrarunning experience, and be able to self-navigate with map and compass. Places are limited (250) and a 100 hour overall cut-off applies.

Mandatory kit requirements include a hardcopy Southern Upland Way map, waterproof coat and trousers, compass, headtorch with backup, survival bag, water carrying capacity and purification, emergency food rations, fully charged mobile phone and a supplied GPS tracker. Support crews are permitted from Checkpoint 3 onwards but vehicle and parking restrictions apply at many locations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.