The Cape Wrath Ultra is the ultra running adventure of a lifetime! This 8 day journey through the most breathtaking scenery in the UK is not without its challenges though.

Race Director, Shane Ohly, shares his expertise on how to survive the stunning Scottish wilderness.

*The challenges are worth the spectacular views! ©No Limits Photography*

1. The Scottish Midge

One of the reasons why the race takes place in May is that this month sees far fewer midges than the later months.

Midges love warm, damp, still conditions. Bright sunshine reduces midge activity, and they can’t fly when the wind is greater than ~11kph (7mph). Midges are smaller than mosquitoes, so a specialist midge head net is essential, as is a repellent such as Smidge and Skin so Soft, which many runners choose.

A bit of luck with the weather, combined with a good midge net and repellent will make sure that midges bother you very little.

*The height of Scottish Highland fashion, aka the midge net ©No Limits Photography*

2. Bog

The Scottish mountains are known for their peat wetland landscapes. Some of these bogs are vast; others are mere puddles, but their common feature is the inability to support body weight, and runners may sink a little way into them.

Only a few sections of the Cape Wrath Ultra® are true bog (less than 1%) but these sections are particularly memorable. There is nothing for it but to make steady progress between the best patches of ground and have a good laugh when you sink. Bogs are a part of the fun!

Deep treads on your running shoes will assist in the generally muddier trails found in the UK compared to Europe and North America.

*Bog hopping can be fun if you face them with a sense of humour ©No Limits Photography*

3. Inclement Weather

Scotland doesn’t have the extremes of temperature of the Alps or the Arctic, but it can be windy and wet. This can lead to exhaustion hypothermia without proper kit. Good quality waterproofs combined with a synthetic insulation layer (that retains its insulative qualities when wet) are the key to remaining safe.

Check out the film from Day 4 of the 2022 Cape Wrath Ultra® and ask whether your clothing would be appropriate for these conditions. Take the time to consider the ‘Minimum Mandatory Equipment’ for the event. There’s no such thing as bad weather – only the wrong clothing!

KIT REQUIREMENTS

The Scottish weather made its presence known on Day 4 of the 2022 Cape Wrath Ultra!

4. River crossings

Mountains streams (sometimes called Burns in Scotland) and rivers can rise quickly after heavy rain and become uncrossable.

Because of the remote nature of the Cape Wrath Ultra® and the numerous river crossings, we have a guidance article for participants which can be summarised into three critical considerations: 1) Should you cross? 2) Where should you cross? and 3) How you should cross?

We will always have a safety team on hand and contingency plans in the place should river crossings get too high, but never attempt a river crossing if you think there’s a chance of getting swept away!

GUIDANCE ON RIVER CROSSINGS

*River crossings are part of the fun! ©No Limits Photography*

5. Dry feet and shoes

This is easy to summarise… you won’t have dry feet or shoes unless there is truly exceptional weather. Usually, participants' feet are wet within minutes of starting so it’s worth practising with your combination of socks and shoes.

Some runners like waterproof socks, while others prefer not. The important thing is drying your feet ASAP after finishing each day, and keeping them clean and dry at the overnight camps.

We have a dedicated guidance article to help you with foot care.

GUIDANCE ON FOOT CARE