Highland Fling Ultramarathon

Welcome to the 18th Highland Fling, an iconic ultramarathon set against the breathtaking backdrop of Scotland’s West Highland Way. Scheduled for Saturday, August 29, 2026, this challenging race covers a distance of 53 miles (85 km), winding through some of the most stunning landscapes in Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park.
The route begins near Glasgow at Milngavie and traverses rugged terrain until it reaches Tyndrum, a charming Highland village. Along this scenic trail, runners will encounter rolling hills, dense forests, serene lochs, and historic landmarks that encapsulate Scotland’s rich heritage. The event not only celebrates the beauty of the Scottish countryside but also serves as the venue for the prestigious Scottish Ultra Trail Championships.
Entry to the 2026 Highland Fling is based on a unique gender allocation system designed to promote inclusivity and balance among participants. Initially, there will be an equal number of spots available for men and women (500 each), along with nonbinary entrants having their own category. Should any particular group reach capacity before the deadline, a waiting list will open up until additional places become available.
To ensure that runners are well-prepared for this demanding challenge, all participants must meet specific entry criteria by June 1st, 2026. This includes completing an ultramarathon or road/trail marathon after January 1st, 2024. Those who have completed a road marathon in under five hours will also be eligible, as well as individuals who finished any distance trail marathons regardless of time.
For those whose qualifications are not clearly defined by the criteria but believe they should still qualify, contacting race officials at [email protected] prior to submitting an entry is recommended. The organizers reserve discretion when considering applications for long-distance off-road events that do not strictly adhere to these guidelines.
This year’s Scottish Ultra Trail Championships will award medals across various age categories and gender identities—Senior women, men, non-binary; Masters in V40, V50, V60, V70 & V80. Additionally, Club Team awards are available for those who wish to compete as part of a team.
The event is open exclusively to runners aged 20 years or older on race day with no upper age limit set. Participants are strongly encouraged to secure XCover insurance, which covers a range of unforeseen circumstances and protects their entry fees should they be unable to participate due to illness or injury.
In line with its commitment towards inclusivity and equality, the Highland Fling Race welcomes all individuals regardless of gender identity. The race organizers actively support transgender athletes by allowing them to compete in categories that align with their personal identification. For further information on this policy, interested runners can reach out directly via email or phone at 07941 670623.
Join us for an unforgettable experience where every step taken along the West Highland Way reflects not just physical endurance but also respect and admiration for Scotland’s natural beauty and cultural richness.