This usual space of calm and solitude was transformed on 28 September.<\/p>\n
Thousands of runners descended for the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon and Festival of Running\u00a0<\/strong>to bask in their victorious Loch Ness glory.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Hundreds of people lined the streets of Inverness to cheer on weary competitors, who ranged from a one year old in the Wee Nessie Fun<\/strong> Run<\/strong> to an 82 year old<\/strong> who was participating in his first ever marathon.<\/p>\n Race director of the event Malcolm Sutherland says it has become a favourite not just with UK competitors but with those further afield, with 43% of participants registered to take part<\/strong> in the marathon alone hailing from outside Scotland. Jogging participants travelled from Australia, South Africa, Europe, North America and South America.<\/p>\n Sutherland said, \u201cLoch Ness is a world-class backdrop for mass participation sporting events. There is something incredibly special about being able to run in this stunning landscape and the sight of runners making their way along the loch side in their hundreds is inspiring.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n <\/p>\n Leading charity provider of the event Macmillan Cancer<\/strong> was expected to generate in the region of \u00a3110,000<\/strong> thanks to the efforts of 350 runners, the biggest ever team from the Macmillan contingent.<\/p>\n Baxters Food Group was the proud sponsor of this event for the 13th year running.<\/strong><\/p>\n Baxters\u2019 chief financial officer Heather Metcalfe said, \u201cMany congratulations to everyone who ran in the marathon and the other races today.\u201d<\/p>\n Metcalfe concluded with triumph, adding, \u201cI\u2019m always so inspired by the dedication from all the participants, who are running at all levels and ages, and impressed at the amount of money they raise for so many good causes.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n Images from \u00a0the race:\u00a0https:\/\/www.dropbox.com\/sh\/f6whq081pmw3l0j\/AAB5VNeJC5tFoRPX65AU86OTa?dl=0<\/a><\/p>\nLoch Ness secures pounds for Macmillan<\/h2>\n