Running events in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
5 June 2019
Grab your trainers because there’s a running event to sprint, jog or walk in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire with unique routes that pack in some pretty impressive sights too. Whether you’re looking to achieve a new personal best, be challenged or just try something new, here’s my run down (pardon the pun) of events to take part in this year:
1. Race for Life– Sunday 9 June
Team up with friends, family or work colleagues for the largest women only fundraising event in the UK as you take on a 5k and 10k route to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
2. Creag Choinnich Hill Race – Wednesday 19 June
Tread up the 250m hill route of the oldest recorded hill race in the world. Dating back to 1064, King Malcom II founded this race to find the fastest man in the region and it still takes place today at Braemar Castle.
3. Chapelton of Elsick 10k and Kids Run – Sunday 14 July
Take in the beautiful grounds of Elsick House Estate on a route that packs in undulating hills and differing terrain to create a route that’s both tranquil and challenging.
4. Alford 10k – Sunday 21 July
Be one of the first to take part in the inaugural Alford 10k run. Keep your eyes peeled for the OUTSPAN Orange car which will be giving out oranges to boost those energy levels once you’ve completed the race.
5. Simply Health Great Aberdeen Run – Sunday 25 August
See the sights of the city and go the distance by taking on the third Simply Health Great Aberdeen Run. With half marathon, 10k and 5k routes along with family run and business challenge, this event suits all capabilities.
6. The Braemar Gathering - Saturday 7 September
There’s even running events at our traditional Highland Games including The Braemar Gathering which is attended by members of the Royal Family every year since starting in 1832. Add pipe bands, highland dancers and majestic countryside to the mix, you’ll have an authentic Scottish experience here.
7. Room to Run – Saturday 7 September
To mark its fifth birthday, Room to Run is gifting runners with a new half marathon circuit and toughest route yet to join the existing 10k and 5k trails. The Huntly Hairst Food Festival will be in full swing in the town square with local food to refuel after your run.
8. PIM Running Festival – Saturday 14 September
Tick some castles off your must-see list by following the half marathon route of the PIM Running Festival, which takes you through a picturesque course seeing Crathes and Drum Castle. There’s a 5k trail and 1.5k for kids route to take part in too.
9. The Beast Race – Saturday 21 September
Give yourself a challenge and take on the adrenaline filled Beast Race obstacle course. With over 20 obstacles to tackle, you’ll feel like a warrior after treading through mud swamps, dunking into freezing water pools and scaling over towering walls.
10. Illuminator Night Trail Race – Saturday 26 October
As the dark nights creep in, the Glen Tanar forest will be lit with a spectacle of bright shining lights. Expect to see colourful head torches and LED cladded running gear at this unique event under the stars.
To find out what else is on in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire this year just head over to our what’s on guide.