Heart of Granite
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Event
The Heart of Granite is scheduled for 11 April 2026 at Caldons Old Campsite, Glen Trool, Newton Stewart (DG8 6SU; OS grid ref NX 40027 78951). Entry is by pre-entry only; entries open 23 April 2025 and close 5 April 2026. The entry fee is £25.00. Minimum age is 18. Teams of four are permitted. Entries recorded so far: 14 participants.
Course and support
The route is a circular mountain course of 20 miles / 32.2 km with 1850 m of ascent. The route leaves Caldons campsite, climbs to Lamachan and the ridge to Curleywee, drops to the Axe Head stone checkpoint on the Southern Upland Way, then climbs Craiglee and follows the plateau and the Rig of Jarkness. The course passes the Murder Hole and the base of the Old Grey Man of Merrick, includes a summit of Merrick, then descends to Bruce's Stone and returns along the valley to Caldons. Checkpoints are manned; marshals from Galloway Mountain Rescue provide number checking, first aid cover and refreshments at the finish. Profits from the race will go to Galloway Mountain Rescue Team.
Requirements and administration
The event is described as a winter race and requires fell running experience and navigation skills. A permit and associated insurance cover the event. Mandatory kit to be carried or worn includes map, compass, whistle, waterproof top with integral hood and taped seams, waterproof bottoms with taped seams, head torch, hat and gloves. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
