Islay Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Islay Marathon
The Islay Marathon is an island-based sporting event held on the "Queen of the Hebrides" in Scotland. The run is organized in memory of Menzies MacAffer, a former Royal Marine and marathon runner, with proceeds supporting local charities and community groups. This event does not use chip timing.
Participants can choose from the following distance options:
- Marathon (Full individual distance)
- 2-person Relay Team
- 4-person Relay Team
The course begins in Bruichladdich and passes through the locations of Bridgend and Bowmore. Runners then travel along the low road into Port Ellen, before completing an out-and-back section to Ardbeg via the Three Distilleries path. The race concludes in Port Ellen. Elements of the route include views of the coastline, local wildlife, and rural landscapes.
To participate in the full marathon, runners must be 18 years of age or older. For relay teams, a minimum age of 15 is required for the four-person team and 17 for the two-person team. The event has a strict cut-off time of six hours. A sweeper car is provided for those unable to finish within this timeframe. Transport services to the starting line are available for a fee from both Port Ellen and Bowmore. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
