Heart of Granite

Heart of Granite, an exhilarating winter race through Scotland’s Galloway hills, offers runners a challenging yet rewarding experience. The 20-mile course begins at Caldons old campsite and weaves its way up the valley to Lamachan before ascending to Curleywee Ridge.
The route continues with a descent towards Axe Head stone checkpoint on the Southern Upland Way, where participants are greeted by hearty food and refreshments provided by Galloway Mountain Rescue Team (MRT) volunteers. From there, runners tackle the summit of Craiglee, followed by crossing the plateau to Rig of Jarkness for another manned checkpoint.
The course then leads past Murder Hole towards the Old Grey Man of Merrick, where a steep climb awaits before reaching its peak at Merrick itself. Afterward, participants enjoy a long descent down through Bruce’s Stone and back into Glen Trool along the valley floor until they return to Caldons campsite for the finish line.
This race is designed specifically for runners aged 18 or older who possess fell running experience and strong navigation skills due to potential winter conditions during its run. Galloway MRT volunteers ensure safety throughout with first aid support at checkpoints, adding a touch of local community spirit to the event.
All proceeds from Heart of Granite go directly towards supporting Galloway Mountain Rescue Team efforts in their mountain rescue operations. The race adheres strictly to Scottish Hill Runners (SHR) rules and regulations for added credibility and assurance.
Registration opens at 7:30 am, with an early start option at 9 am followed by the main event starting promptly at 10 am from Caldons old campsite in Glen Trool. Competitors must carry mandatory kit as outlined on the race website (www.BrucesCrown.co.uk), ensuring they are prepared for any conditions encountered along this rugged yet scenic route.
Heart of Granite promises not only a test of endurance but also an immersion into Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, making it a unique and memorable event for experienced runners.