Bakkafrost half-marathon sponsorship keeps on running

Bakkafrost Scotland will be the headline sponsor for the Isle of Skye Half Marathon for the sixth consecutive year, the salmon farmer said today.

The race, on Saturday, June 8, is considered to be one of the most picturesque in the UK, currently has 120 runners signed up to take part. For the second year, it also features a 10k run. Registration for both events is open on-line until 12pm on Thursday, June 6. Registration on the day is also possible.

Bakkafrost Scotland managing director Ian Laister said: “More than just a race, the Isle of Skye Half Marathon is a really popular event for both runners and islanders. It offers a stunning course and injects a real boost of energy into the local community.

Important to us

“Being involved in community events is important to our business, our staff and the communities in which we live and work. We have six members of our team who are taking part in this event.

“Best of luck to the runners, and a big thank you to the Skye Events team, Dougie Macleod, and our Bakkafrost Scotland colleagues from our local farm in Portree who will help with the event setup over race weekend.”

The Skye Half Marathon, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, has made a name for itself for its support of local charitable causes. Over the past 40 years it has raised more than £200,000, on top of the money that runners raise for the charities they choose to support.

This year the run will support Skye & Lochalsh Young Carers and Skye & Lochalsh Mental Health Association.

It will also make donations to Skye Cancer Care and Skye & Lochalsh Citizens Advice Bureau, and to local youth groups including Skye Radio, the Brownies and Guides, Skye Dance, Skye Pipe Band, Skye Tri Club, Ailsa May Dance, and Helping Hands.

The half marathon and 10K will also provide an awareness platform for Mikeysline, a charity dedicated to tackling loneliness and depression in the Highlands.

Inspirational day

Fiona Baker, race director at Skye Events, said: “This inspirational day welcomes runners of all abilities from all over the world and is a real testament to the people of Skye to have kept this race running over four decades.

“The return of the 10k race gives some new energy from a different distance runner, and this expansion has broadened participation, drawing in a diverse range of runners and fuelling greater support for local charities.

“[The event] continues to this day to foster a deep connection with our island community, raising funds for really worthwhile causes, and keeping as a priority the sustainable future for Skye’s beautiful landscape.”

Both races start at 10.30am and take place on roads that are closed to traffic. The day will have a family festival vibe with food vendors, the RNLI BBQ and entertainment from the Skye Pipe Band. There’s also a Fun Run for children who are five or above, and a Toddler Dash for the under-fives.