New William Wallace Running Festival set to showcase the sights of Stirling
Participants can choose from a host of events, from a 1km accessible route to a 70km ultra run.
Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland's most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.
Organisers of the festival, which takes place in Stirling this October, are seeking relay teams of bravehearted friends and work colleagues to take on the epic 70K and 50K ultra runs which make up part of the competition.
They are keen to see teams from businesses across the Central belt join the challenge and reap the health and wellbeing benefits which develop through physical activity, teamwork and a shared goal.
Graham Coull, William Wallace Running Festival co-founder, said: 'Relay teams are a relatively unique choice at running events and offer a fantastic opportunity for workplace teams to get together, share some camaraderie and have fun.
'The ultra events are a chance for teams of three or six runners to sign up and train together before taking part in an unforgettable experience as they race through Scotland's spectacular countryside.
'There are so many benefits to embarking on a challenge like this as a workplace team including healthier minds and bodies and the team spirit and camaraderie which develops when people come together for a common purpose.
'Not everyone will be able to, or want to, run a full 50K or 70K but running a shorter distance as part of a team is an achievable aim.
'And those who don't want to run can be part of the day by cheering on their workmates or helping as an event volunteer.'
Teams can also raise funds for a charity close to their heart or for MND Scotland - the festival's official charity partner.
The William Wallace Running Festival is off-road and features a 10K as well as a flat one-mile run aimed at younger athletes and people who use wheelchairs or have accessibility needs.
It takes place on Saturday October 11 with all four races starting and finishing at Stirling Sports Village.
The event is the vision of Peter Ness, an experienced race director and owner of Edinburgh-based Scurry Events, and Graham Coull plus his sons Gregg and Craig who run leading event announcing and endurance sports coaching business You Can Sport in Stirling.
Graham, who is chair of Stirling Triathlon Club said: 'I've always wanted to organise a race in Stirling as there are no large events available to the area's athletes just now.
'I live in Stirling and am involved in coaching runners with the triathlon club so it made sense to host an event which showcases the highlights of the city including Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument.
'There are no road closures and we've created a route which takes in the major aspects of the area and captures every historical and visual landmark. The aim is for it to become an annual destination event where people come from across the UK and further afield to compete.'
Peter says: 'Our vision was to feature multiple race distances which trace routes with deep historical significance to Scotland's national hero William Wallace.
'There is something for everyone whether you are an endurance runner who wants the challenge of a 70K or 50K ultra, an athlete or fun runner who enjoys a 10K or a young person ready to compete in a one-mile run.
'We're also pleased to welcome relay teams for the long distance races and there is something extra special about watching running teams take on the last victory lap and cross the finish line together.
'We're looking forward to seeing teams forming with groups of work colleagues or friends who join forces to share a memorable journey and an amazing achievement.'
The organisers are also delighted to partner with Scotland's national MND charity which provides practical, financial and emotional support to anyone affected by MND whilst also funding essential research into finding effective treatments and a cure.
Jonathan Mitchell, Head of Fundraising at MND Scotland, said: 'We are thrilled to partner with the new William Wallace Running Festival.
'The partnership will allow us to raise important awareness of motor neuron disease whilst generating vital funds to support those affected by this devastating condition across Scotland.
'The festival's spirit of determination and resilience perfectly mirrors the bravery shown by those living with MND every day.'
The William Wallace Running Festival offers participants four race routes:
Ultra 70km: A spectacular 70km loop of the Ochil Hills, Bannockburn, Campsie Fells, Lewis Hill, Stirling Castle, Bridge of Allan, Cockburn Reservoir, Jerah Forest, Blairlogie, Wallace Monument, and Cambuskenneth Abbey. This challenge is open to solo runners or relay teams of three or six and includes five aid stations along the course.
Ultra 50km: This race takes runners on a journey past the Ochil Hills, Bannockburn, Kings Park and Stirling Castle before continuing through the Keir Estate and Bridge of Allan to reach Cockburn Reservoir. Athletes return to Stirling Sports Village via the Wallace Monument, Cambuskenneth Abbey and the riverside path. It caters for solo runners or relay teams of three or six runners and includes five aid stations.
Braveheart 10km: A flat riverside route by the Wallace Monument and Ochil Hills which crosses the historic Stirling Old Bridge—site of William Wallace's 1297 victory. Runners can follow in the footsteps of legends and create their own moment in history.
Wallace Warriors: A one-mile, traffic-free, flat route designed for young runners, those with accessibility needs or those who use wheelchairs.
Athletes can find out more about the events and enter via the Festival website – www.williamwallacerunningfestival.com
The organisers are also seeking a Title sponsor and Premium sponsors who will have the chance to see their branding/logo on race materials.
Volunteers who would like to help on the day are also welcomed and community groups who volunteer will receive a small donation in return.
Graham said: 'We're keen to involve the business community and local people who want to join in with the event through sponsorship or volunteering.
'We can offer sponsors the chance to be part of a high-profile event and have a range of packages on offer. Premium sponsors will see their names on race T-shirts and could also sponsor a key section of the route.'
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