Enter via SiEntries - SiEntries - Heart of Granite

In April 2025 Nicky Spinks and Galloway Mountain Rescue will resurrect this classic Galloway race which used to run alongside the Bruce's Crown race in the early 2000's.

The new version of the race will head out from Caldons campsite, up the valley to Lamachan where it picks up the ridge leading to Curleywee before dropping to the Axe Head stone checkpoint on the Southern Upland Way to receive a good welcome, food and water. From there runners climb to the summit of Craiglee and across the plateau to then take the long gentle descent along the Rig of Jarkness, through the heart of the Galloway hills down to it's base and a manned checkpoint. From there a sharp right takes you on a good path, past the Murder Hole to the base of the Old Grey Man of Merrick where you climb to the summit of Merrick. Then it's a long descent down to Bruce's Stone and a bit of a slog along the valley back to Caldons to the finish where you get a bowl of hearty vegetable soup and a Sulwath Brewery beer.  A total mileage of 20 miles with 1850m ascent.  

This is a race for people who are over 18 years old, with fell running experience and navigation skills as it's a winter race and it could be run in winter conditions. Galloway Mountain Rescue marshalls will be out on the course taking number at checkpoints, providing First Aid cover and generously serving up hot soup and refreshments at the finish. All profits from the race will go to Galloway MRT.

This race has a permit from Scottish Hill Runners association and run under SHR rules 

Time: Registration from 9.30am, Race start at 11am.

Location: Caldons old campsite, Glen Trool, Newton Stewart, DG8 6SU. OS Grid Ref: NX 40027 78951

Course: 20 miles distance, 1850m ascent.

Route: As above description and see map on the website. 

Kit: The following is the mandatory kit list which must be carried / worn:

• Map
• Compass
• Whistle
• Waterproof top with integral hood and taped seams
• Waterproof bottoms with taped seams
• Head torch
• Hat
• Gloves

Website: www.BrucesCrown.co.uk There is a link to Heart of Granite from the main menu.