Inverness Half Marathon and 5K runners really will take the biscuit!

March 8, 2024

Scottish Half Marathon Championships return to Inverness Half Marathon

The 2024 Inverness Half Marathon has been chosen to host the Scottish Half Marathon Championships, as well as the North District Championships, for the second consecutive year.

Taking place on Sunday 10^th March, Inverness Half Marathon and 5K has now sold out after reaching capacity ahead of the entry deadline. 4,240 people have signed up: 2,940 for the Half Marathon, while a record 1,300 have signed up for the 5K with 42% of those coming from schools, sports clubs and youth groups from across the Highlands.

Runners of all ages have signed up; from the youngest in the 5K, aged one, to the oldest in the Half Marathon, aged 80.

This year, runners will receive a biscuit medal made by local baker Harry Gow after the event’s shipment of medals was delayed due to conflict in the Red Sea. The commemorative biscuits reflect the medal design with the event logo. The official medals and finisher T-shirts will be posted out to participants as soon as possible following the event.

“Having hosted the Scottish Half Marathon Championships for the first time just last year, it’s fantastic to be chosen to host the event again this year,” said Malcolm Sutherland, Event Director of Inverness Half Marathon and 5K.

“We’re excited to welcome runners of all ages and abilities to the Highland capital this Sunday for both the Half Marathon and 5K, and it’s really encouraging to have so many schools and youth groups sign-up for the 5K.

“A special thank you must go to Harry Gow for stepping in to create a special medal-style biscuit when our original medal delivery was delayed. I’m sure our runners will enjoy the sweet taste of success – quite literally – when they cross the finish line!”

Mike Johnston, Convenor of the scottishathletics Road Running and Cross Country Commission, said: “The Inverness Half Marathon has built a strong reputation with fast times and close finishes among its competitors over the years. So, we are delighted to bring the Scottish Half Marathon Championships and North District Championships to Inverness once again. These championships are an important event in Scotland’s road running calendar and attract the country’s top-class endurance athletes. We look forward to seeing who is crowned champion this weekend.”

Some minor changes have been made to the route for this year’s event due to ongoing works at Riverside Way and Burn Road, with every effort being made to ensure the route is race ready. The route has been remeasured and certified by scottishathletics. Extra marshals and signage will also be in place on race day to assist and guide runners.

As always, the Inverness Half Marathon and 5K is an important fundraising event for many charities, including official charities SAMH, Alzheimer Scotland, Highland Hospice, Centred, New Start Highland and Mikeysline.

The prize-giving presentation will be given by the Provost of Inverness, Councillor Glynis Sinclair, who said: “I look forward to welcoming all the runners to Inverness on Sunday. As one of the first major sporting events of the year, Inverness Half Marathon and 5K always creates a great buzz around the city. I hope everyone taking part has a fantastic day – good luck!”

There will be some temporary traffic restrictions in place on Sunday 10^th March. Full details can be found here.

Further information on the event can be found at: www.invernesshalfmarathon.co.uk