This Saturday marks the 41st running of Highland Cross, a beloved coast-to-coast challenge that captures the heart and soul of Scotland.
From sea to shining sea, 795 athletes and fundraisers will make their way across the Highlands, tackling a 50-mile duathlon to raise vital funds for local causes.
The journey begins in Morvich, Kintail, where participants set off on a 20-mile trek over the towering pass behind the Five Sisters of Kintail to reach Glen Affric.
There, they trade walking boots for bicycles and ride the final 30 miles to Beauly on the East Coast.
It’s an awe-inspiring route and one that attracts competitors from across the UK and beyond.
While last year’s champion and record breaker Ewan Brown won’t return, two former winners are back in the race.
Gordon Lennox of East Sutherland AC and Peter Fenwick of Shetland AAC will be aiming for top honours once again.
The women’s race sees a change at the top too, with reigning champion Catriona Graves stepping aside.
Sally Wallis, who has twice finished third, is now among the favourites.
She’ll be joined by newcomers Catriona Fraser of Inverness Harriers and Sarah Hodgson from Highland Hill Runners.
The field this year is as diverse as ever, with ages ranging from 18 to 83.
Over 50 competitors have taken part in Highland Cross for more than two decades.
Fifteen are marking their 30th crossing, while David Rose and John Talbot are making their 41st having never missed a single edition.
Graham Forbes follows closely behind, set for his 40th appearance.
The event is as much about community as it is endurance.
Since its launch in 1983, Highland Cross has raised £6.3 million for Highland charities supporting those facing medical or social hardship.
This year’s efforts will benefit four remarkable groups.
Badenoch and Strathspey Community Connexions, Gateway HHT, Rag Tag and Textile, and the Skye and Lochalsh Mental Health Association have all been selected to receive funding for essential capital projects.
Organisers once again had more applicants than places to offer, a clear sign of the deep affection and high regard in which Highland Cross is held.
Some will push for records, others will simply aim to finish.
But every step, every pedal, every ache and triumph contributes to something far greater than the sum of its miles.
On Saturday, the Highlands will echo with footsteps, tyre treads and the sound of something truly rare, a nation moving together for good.
