The British Ultra
The British Ultra - 48 hours to go.
The British Ultra Team / 25.05.2008
With a mere 48 hours to go until the start of the inaugural Marmot British Ultra, the organisers have been busy on the Island of Islay in Scotland making the last minute arrangements for what promises to be an amazing event. The race, which starts on Sunday morning, covers 130 miles over 6 days of varied terrain ranging from single track lanes, to remote mountain passes to impressive coastal slopes. Most of the route, particularly on Jura (where the race goes to on day 2 and remains until its conclusion) will be on barren land with, at best, only animal tracks to follow. By ultra standards 130 miles might on paper seem to be on the short side, but it will be interesting to see if the athletes taking part in this first event come to that conclusion on completion. The route is as testing underfoot as anything I have encountered in the UK so those obsessed with minutes per mile might be in for a shock.
To complement the rugged terrain (a prerequisite in our desire to make this the ultimate extreme race in a UK environment), the wildlife that exists here in abundance is an absolute delight to see. Literally within minutes of leaving the port on arrival yesterday without trying I had spotted seals, otters, red deer and fallow deer. Also numerous birds of prey which I am sure over the next few days someone will enlighten me as to what they are. On our last visit here in September a Golden Eagle was pointed out to me, so the expectations for further sighting of these fantastic birds is high. Whilst along the coast line of Jura, often Basking Sharks and Whales can be seen. Whether the athletes taking part will have the energy to enjoy such spectacles remains to be seen.
With the event taking place in the heartland of the premier Malt Whisky Industry, fittingly the race starts at the Ardbeg Distillery and culminates at the Jura Distillery, both of whom are generously supporting the event alongside the title sponsors Marmot.
All being well, it is intended that daily updates will keep those at home up to date with events as they unfold, together with daily results. However, just in case it all goes quiet from day 2 onwards, fear not, it’s a likely consequence of the remoteness of Jura – but every effort will be made to satisfy the internet supporters back at home.
Will write more tomorrow with further teasing info, but until then have a great day.
Cheers
Martin, Dave and Matt.
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