The Steall Marathon is one of Scotland’s most challenging marathon distance races, covering 26.2 miles with around 8,000ft of ascent across the Mamores range and the lower flanks of Ben Nevis. The route combines long climbs, technical ground, and exposed ridges, demanding both endurance and concentration throughout.
This year’s event took place in wet and cold conditions, with rain making the descents particularly slippery. The terrain required careful movement rather than speed in places, and maintaining balance became as important as maintaining pace. I fell five times over the course of the race, a reminder of how quickly conditions in the Highlands can change underfoot.
The marathon ran alongside six other events, bringing together a wide range of athletes across multiple distances. The field included several established mountain runners such as Tom Owens and Brennan Townsend, contributing to a high level of competition. I finished 23rd overall, satisfied with a steady performance on what proved to be a demanding day.
The mandatory winter kit list added a further layer of challenge, requiring two insulated jackets of at least 300g each, alongside the standard safety equipment. I was very thankful for another year supported by Dynafit, whose high-quality kit performed faultlessly in the cold, wet, and exposed conditions. Their equipment is built precisely for this type of environment, where reliability and comfort make a tangible difference.
Overall, the race was exceptionally well organised, with clear marking, efficient support, and a well-considered route that showcased the variety of terrain across the Mamores. Shane and the organising team deserve real credit for maintaining such high standards across seven simultaneous events.
The Steall Marathon remains a benchmark in UK mountain running — tough, honest, and rewarding in equal measure.
