Speyside Way race is one of few to survive

Next month’s Speyside Way ultra-trail race, to be held over a 36.5- mile course between Ballindalloch and Buckie, is one of only a handful of north events to have survived since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Lairig Ghru mountain marathon, between Braemar and Aviemore, in September and the Bennachie 50k ultra- trail race earlier this month are the only others to have gone ahead.

The length of these races makes it a little easier for physical distancing to be put in place, allowing event organisers to proceed.

But guidelines still impose a limit on the number of people taking part, with no more than 200, including officials, to attend an event.

Registration has to be done on a staggered time basis and all runners must provide ID before taking part.

Competitors are expected to be screened with temperature scanning before starting and will be set off in small groups at regular intervals to ensure the field is well spread out.

Face masks are required prior to the start and must be carried during the race. No external support can be given by supporters along the route.

When any race is advertised as going ahead there’ s anal mighty scramble for places as runners are so keen to take part.

As a consequence, the Speyside Way race sold out some time ago.

Scotland internationals Robbie Simpson (Deeside Runners), Kenny Wilson ( Moray Road Runners) and Grant Jeans are among the entrants, alongside other strong contenders such as Jason Kelly and Chris Richardson, both from Metro Aberdeen.