Race Dunvegan returns with strong turnout
Written by MartyM on 23 March 2026
By Jamie McDonald and David Goldring
Runners of all ages and abilities took to the trails around Dunvegan Castle on Saturday 21 March.
Set against the backdrop of Loch Dunvegan and the historic home of Clan MacLeod, the mixed terrain event once again brought together seasoned runners, families and visitors to the island. Participants could choose from a 10K, 5K, walking 5K and a 2K fun run, all starting within the castle grounds and winding through the estate’s woodland trails.
In the headline 10K race, Chris Jennings from Clydebank took first place in a tightly contested finish, crossing the line in 38 minutes and 19 seconds, just over a second ahead of second placed Dean Whiteford from Innerleithen. Andrew Liley finished third.
Speaking to Radio Skye, Chris Jennings, a CalMac engineer from South Africa living in Glasgow, said:
“It was such a good race. Really well organised. Very tough but very scenic. What a privilege to be running around Skye. I started running when I was really young. I used to be a professional road cyclist over 10 years ago, so I like to keep fit. My partner signed me up. I would have preferred to be in the pub to be honest!
“I didn’t know what to expect. It was a lot of off road with a bit of a headwind, so there was no part that was easy, it was a slog all the way round.
“We were lucky with the weather. It was warm but I’m sure it’s not like that all the time.”
The first woman over the line was Claire Qualls of Stirling University AC finishing first in 46 minutes and 52 seconds. Shannon MacLeod followed closely behind in second, just two and a half seconds later, with Gemma Milne taking third.
Speaking to Radio Skye, Claire Qualls, originally from the USA, said:
“I’m pretty chuffed. I’ve never won a race before. I wasn’t really expecting it. I run with my friend Shannon, who also runs with the University. She told me about the trail part and I was a bit nervous about that.
“I heard her (Shannon) behind me the whole time, which was a bit of motivation.
“I’d probably say it’s the most scenic 10K I’ve ever ran. The trail was lovely, I really enjoyed the up and down. As soon as you came out onto the road, seeing the sea was gorgeous.
“I’ve been running for about 12 years, I’m only 22. I just love it. It makes me happy. I run for fun.”
Elsewhere on the course, the 5K race saw Hamish Turner take the overall win in 18 minutes and 21 seconds. Isla James was the first woman over the line in that distance, finishing in 22 minutes and 23 seconds in a close battle for the top spot.
In the 5K walk, Amy Ford finished first overall, while Julian Blampied was the first male walker home.
The event also included a popular fun run for younger participants and families. Lachie Gillies was the overall winner in the 2K event with a time of 11 minutes and 15 seconds, while Mara Matheson was the first girl to finish. Luca Ranicar and Bea Macdonald were the first boy and girl in the 8 and under category respectively.
Race organisers say the day would not be possible without the efforts of volunteers, who spent months planning and several days setting up and packing down the course while cheering runners along the way.
Race Director Fiona Baker told Radio Skye:
“It has been an absolutely pleasure. The weather has been amazing. We’ve had a fantastic turnout. The team have all come together. Everybody is just really happy.
“This is the third time I’ve organised this race and this is the biggest turnout so far.
“The race is really gaining traction and people are starting to travel distances to run it.
“I can’t thank Hugh MacLeod and his team enough. They’ve been fantastic. They made all the trails and filled in all the holes and the groundsmen did an amazing job which has made the running a pleasure.
“Skye in itself is a bucket list trip. If you love travelling and you love the countryside and the outdoors, you’re going to come here. Where else can you run with a castle as your backdrop?”
“Next up is the big one; the Skye Half Marathon & 10K. Registrations are flying out the door. We’re way ahead of where we were last year. We’ve already got 750 signed up for that race. I think it’s going to be really exciting.
Race Dunvegan takes place each year before the castle and grounds open for the season, giving participants a rare opportunity to run through the historic estate in a unique setting. After crossing the finish line, runners and supporters were able to relax and enjoy food from visiting vendors.
Full results from all races are available online.
