Location

Aboyne Community Centre, Bridgeview Road, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, AB34 5JN. See map.

Registration Time

16:30 - 18:15 - Registration for 15 Mile 17:00 - 18:30 - Registration for 15 Km 17:30 - 18:45 - Registration for 8 Km NOTE: We will email you a specific registration time between 16:30 - 18:45 a few days before the event. Please be prepared to arrive from 16:30 if you are given an earlier registration time.

Race Start Times

15 Mile = 1830hrs 15 Km = 1845hrs 8 Km = 1900hrs Start Grid Layout 15 Mile: start grid will be split into two areas: Race/Run Racers aiming to finish in the top 25% should position themselves at the front, general runners please stand behind. 8km & 15km: start grid will be split into three areas: Race/Run/Walk Racers aiming to finish in the top 10% should position themselves at the front, general runners in the middle and walkers at the back.

Time Cut-Offs

To ensure the safety of all participants and staff at the Illuminator we will be operating a strict cut-off time on all routes. However, these times are fair and realistic and most people will easily beat the cut off SO LONG AS YOU KEEP MOVING! ​ The cut off location for all routes is the LIGHT ZONE. You must reach the lightzone by 2200hrs You must reach the finishline by 2330hrs ​ For each route the lightzone occurs at the following distance: ​ 8km - The time out location is 4.2 kms into the route ​ 15km - The time out location is 10kms into the route ​ 15 Mile - The time out location is 12.4 miles (or 19.8 kms) into the route If you are timed out, our staff will look after you and ensure you are safely transported back to the event centre.

15 Mile Route Info

More information on the route is available HERE .TCX & .GPX downloads for GPS devices available via our STRAVA club

15 Km Route Info

More information on the route is available HERE .TCX & .GPX downloads for GPS devices available via our STRAVA club

8 Km Route Info

More information on the route is available HERE .TCX & .GPX downloads for GPS devices available via our STRAVA club

Race Rules

• You will not give your Event entry to anyone else, pretend to be anyone else or swap any participant identification methods during the Event.

• You must follow the instructions provided by Event Officials, Marshals and Event Organisers at all times.

• All volunteers and staff involved in the Event will be clearly identifiable. The marshals do not have the authority to stop motorists; they are there for your safety and that of other road users. It is the responsibility of each participant to take the correct course.

• Participants will be set off in three start waves, one for each route, at different times.

• If you see anyone who requires additional help or medical assistance you will help to the best of your ability and report the situation to an Event marshal as soon as possible.

• You must not deviate from the official Event route, which will have directional signage throughout.

Age Rules

15 Mile - you must be 18+ years old on the day of the event. 15km - you must be 16+ years old on the day of the event (if you are 16 or 17 you must bring a signed parental consent form). 8km - you must be 14+ years old on the day of the event (if you are aged between 14 and 17 you must bring a signed parental consent form).

Time Cut-Offs

To ensure the safety of all participants and staff at the Illuminator we will be operating a strict cut-off time on all routes. However, these times are fair and realistic and most people will easily beat the cut off SO LONG AS YOU KEEP MOVING! ​ The cut off location for all routes is the LIGHT ZONE. You must reach the lightzone by 2200hrs You must reach the finishline by 2330hrs ​ For each route the lightzone occurs at the following distance: ​ 8km - The time out location is 4.2 kms into the route ​ 15km - The time out location is 10kms into the route ​ 15 Mile - The time out location is 12.4 miles (or 19.8 kms) into the route If you are timed out, our staff will look after you and ensure you are safely transported back to the event centre.

Registration

Registration (entry) and payment is online via Racespace only. No new registrations on event day. On event day you must go to registration with your printed PDF ticket (or pdf displayed on your phone) and you must show official photo ID (e.g. passport, driving licence, Young Scot card) and your signed parental consent form if you're under 18.

Refunds

We don't issue refunds, but you can arrange to swap your place if you have a replacement. You can also defer your place for one year only and participate at next year’s event. We do not accept swaps or deferrals in the last week before the event. Please click here to find out how to give your entry to a friend / defer until next year

Giving your place to someone else

You can swap your place if you have a replacement. You can also defer your place for one year only and participate at next year’s event. We do not accept swaps or deferrals in the last week before the event. Please click here to find out how to give your entry to a friend / defer until next year.

Defering your registration

If you can't make it this year, you can defer your place for one year only and participate at next year’s event. We do not accept swaps or deferrals in the last week before the event. Please click here to find out how to give your entry to a friend / defer until next year.

Registration cut-off date

You must be registered and have made all team changes 1 week before the event. Entries close at midnight on Sunday 20th October

Confirmation

You will receive a confirmation email from Race Space about your registration. You must bring the attached PDF ticket (printout or digitally on your phone) to registration at the event along with your photo ID. If you're under 18, you also need to print the parental consent form attached to the Race Space email, ask a parent to sign it and bring it with you.

Changing your details after registration

Log into your Race Space account and edit your details whenever you like up to 1 week before the event. The only detail you cannot change is the name of the participant. If you would like to arrange a swap or replacement runner please click here.

Not receiving emails?

We’re sorry you aren’t receiving our emails. We’ll make sure this is corrected as soon as possible. Please check your spam folder, and if our emails aren’t there then please contact us and we’ll resend any information you may have missed. Please check your spam or junk folders!

Age Rules

15 Mile - you must be 18+ years old on the day of the event. 15km - you must be 16+ years old on the day of the event (if you are 16 or 17 you must bring a signed parental consent form). 8km - you must be 14+ years old on the day of the event (if you are aged between 14 and 17 you must bring a signed parental consent form).

Documents you MUST bring (please read)

• ​PDF ticket / digital ticket on your phone – sent in your confirmation email or downloadable from your Race Space account

How to register at the event

Exact details will be emailed to you before the event. Please be prepared to register a few hours before the event starts. You should expect to have to wait outside in the start area with all your race equipment. Please come prepared

Registration Timings

16:30 - 18:15 - Registration for 15 Mile 17:00 - 18:30 - Registration for 15 Km 17:30 - 18:45 - Registration for 8 Km NOTE: We will email you a specific registration time between 16:30 - 18:45 a few days before the event. Please be prepared to arrive from 16:30 if you are given an earlier registration time.

What is included in the cost

• Coaster Medal (you can turn your coaster into a medal with our coloured jute twine at the 'Make your Medal' station)

What your entry fee is spent on

Our aim is to provide you with only the best services, safety cover and event experience. We very much hope you find it good value and that you will want to come back every year! We always welcome your feedback on this. ​ Here are some of the things the fee covers: Atmospheric lighting, van and trailer transport, insurance, first-aid and paramedic cover, water and food stations, licensing and stakeholder liaison, route marking and signage, professional event staff, venue hire, facilities hire, vehicle hire, car parking hire, sound system hire, timing system hire, event photography, post-event clean-up, event insurance, cancellation insurance.

Refunds

We don't issue refunds, but you can arrange to swap your place if you have a replacement. You can also defer your place for one year only and participate at next year’s event. We do not accept swaps or deferrals in the last week before the event. Please click here to find out how to give your entry to a friend / defer until next year.

What does a ticket cost

Please see here for the ticket cost.

Raise money for Braemar Mountain Rescue

Volunteers from BMRA will be at the race to support the event and you! Find out easy ways to raise money for Braemar Mountain Rescue Association here.

Car Parking

Parking is completely free in the Community Centre car park and surrounding streets. Please park with respect to local residents. Please help us reduce traffic and carbon emissions by car sharing. If you don't have anyone to lift share with then please try here.

Where to leave valuables

Please leave anything in your vehicle that you don't want to take with you. You can access the car park after registration. There will be no key or documents drop.

Event Base Facilities (startline/finishline)

Showers There is a limited number of showers available in the Community Centre. Toilets There will be plenty of toilets close to the start line including disabled access toilets. There will also be a limited number of toilets at each feed station en route. Disabled access There is disabled access into the event base in Aboyne Community Centre and parts of the start line area. There is no access for spectators along the route in Glen Tanar. Food and drinks There is a water and snack station on each course (two on the 15 Mile route). There will be a range of caterers available at the start and finish for you to purchase snacks and drinks.

En-Route Facilities

Drink and snack station There is a water and snack station on each course (two on the 15 mile route) Toilets There will be one portaloo at the lightzone (all routes) and also one portaloo at the drink station at the halfway mark for the 15 mile route

Food & Drink

• Try and eat a meal 2-3 hours before the event and then have a small snack and drink 30 minutes before the event – energy drink, banana etc.

How is the race timed

The event is timed with electronic timing chips. A small chip is given to you during registration at the event and should be attached to your shoe or boot. Each runners time starts with the klaxon/gun and stops as they cross the finishline on return. Results will be available within 48hrs of the event and will be posted on our website and social media.

Race Results

Results will be available here within 48hrs and will be posted on our website and social media

Race results

Results will be available here within 48hrs and will be posted on our website and social media

Spectators

Spectators are welcome at the event base and start/finish line area. Please note it may be very cold so be prepared. Fresh food and drink will be available to purchase. There is no access for spectators along the route in Glen Tanar.

Children

Children are welcome to accompany spectators at our events. The Illuminator, however, happens at night and the weather may be cold and wet, so please take that into account. If you are 14 years old or older then you can run or walk the 8KM If you are 16 years old or older then you can run or walk the 15KM

Dogs

We love our trail hound but for this event dogs are NOT allowed. Please leave the mutts at home. The event base is based at a Community Centre where dogs are also not allowed.

Event Photographs

Professional photographers will be snapping away all night. Pictures will be available online after the event on our Facebook and Instagram pages – they are free to download for personal use only. We can’t guarantee to get a shot of everyone but we’ll do our best!

Taking your own photos

You are very welcome to take images of the event, but to protect the interest and viability of the professional photography team please do not offer to sell them online or through any other means. Please note there is no access for spectators along the route in Glen Tanar - but there are good photo opportunities around the start and finish.

Press & Media

We welcome all media coverage. Please contact us for more information.

Event T&Cs - Intro

During online registration you agree and consent to the following event terms and conditions by ticking a box: Your entry to and participation of your selected event (‘the Event’ or ‘Illuminator’) is provided to you by Firetrail Limited, a company incorporated under the Companies Acts (Registered No. SC594765) and having its Registered Office at 17 Balnagowan Drive, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, AB34 5GT (‘us’, ‘our’ or ‘we’), subject to these terms and conditions. References to the Event include all aspects of the Event organised by us including access, parking, the venue and the activity. By entering and participating in the Event you understand and accept the following terms and conditions:

Events T&Cs - Nature of the Event, Risks & Your Responsibilities

• You knowingly and freely assume and accept all such risks, both known and unknown, and take full responsibility for your participation in all elements of the Event. You have familiarised yourself with the information about the Event shown on our website and in the description below.
• The Event is designed to be challenging and participants’ resilience, fitness and mental toughness will be tested. You can run or walk (apart from the 15 mile route, which is for runners only) solo or as part of a team. The objective is to complete the route you are registered for.
• The Event will typically be held in challenging outdoor environments that might include: extreme cold; adverse weather conditions such as snow, ice, fog, humidity and rain; involve extreme changes in elevation; demand significant and prolonged physical effort; and involve an inherent risk of contact with hazardous flora and fauna. The Event is a hazardous activity that presents a significant physical and mental challenge to all participants.
• You acknowledge, accept and understand that the route, roads, trails, paths and all terrain involved in the Event are physically and mentally challenging and hazardous, and due to the nature of the Event, there is an inherent risk of acute illness, injury or even death.
• You understand that hazards within the Event may be magnified due to the fact that the Event is often conducted under what may be extreme conditions and circumstances.
• You recognise the inherent risks associated with the Event and consider yourself physically and mentally able to take part in the Event.
• You are responsible for your own safety throughout the entire Event and you are taking part in the Event entirely at your own risk.
• You will adhere to any instructions given to you by the organisers, officials and marshals before, during and after the Event, and we may stop you from taking part in the Event at any time.
• You agree to (i) behave appropriately at all times; (ii) act respectfully towards all people, equipment, the forest environment, property and facilities; and (iii) participate in the Event with a cooperative and positive attitude.
• You will notify the organisers, officials and marshals as soon as possible if you believe or become aware that any aspects of the Event route, facilities or equipment are unsafe or pose unreasonable risks to yourself or others.
• You accept full and sole responsibility for the condition and adequacy of all personal equipment that you bring to or use at the Event.

Event T&Cs - Payment, Entry & Registration

• For safety reasons all participants MUST bring official photo ID to event registration. Acceptable forms of ID include passport, driving licence, firearms licence or other forms of national photo ID.
• For the 15 mile route, you will be at least 18 years of age on the date of the Event; at least 16 years for the 15km route and at least 14 years for the 8km route.
• If you are under 18 years old you will have your ticket signed by a parent / guardian to confirm their consent to your participation.
• Your entry fee paid to Firetrail Ltd is non-refundable.
• Your entry is not secured until the Event entry fee is received by us.
• We are not responsible for loss of or damage to property or for any additional costs you may incur in connection with the Event.
• You will pay us and any persons or organisations acting on our behalf for any damages, loss or costs caused by any of your negligent or destructive behaviour during the Event.
• We reserve the right to cancel or close down the Event if we consider there is an unacceptable risk to the participants, our staff or the general public. In this highly unlikely happening (e.g. extreme weather) we will do our utmost to reorganise the Event for another date but cannot guarantee a replacement, and we will not be able to refund the entry fee or any other costs associated with the Event.
• You must register on the date and time as specified by the Event Organiser.
• Participants must display their timing chip and wristband provided at Registration at all times.
• The Event has insurance cover; however, we recommend that participants have appropriate insurance cover for their personal health, equipment and event cancellation.
• If you wish cover for personal injury you must make your own arrangements.
• Each participant accepts full responsibility for any fees or costs incurred or arising from the need for repatriation within or outwith the UK.

Event T&Cs - Event Equipment

Firetrail Ltd reserve the right to refuse entry to the Event to anyone with inappropriate equipment or clothing. Participants must ensure they adhere to the Eventﾠ ‘ compulsory equipment’ ﾠrules – these will be strictly enforced.

Event T&Cs - Rules of the Race

• You will not give your Event entry to anyone else, pretend to be anyone else or swap any participant identification methods during the Event.
• You must follow the instructions provided by Event Officials, Marshals and Event Organisers at all times.
• All volunteers and staff involved in the Event will be clearly identifiable. The marshals do not have the authority to stop motorists; they are there for your safety and that of other road users. It is the responsibility of each participant to take the correct course.
• Participants will be set off in three start waves, one for each route, at different times.
• If you see anyone who requires additional help or medical assistance you will help to the best of your ability and report the situation to an Event marshal as soon as possible.
• You must not deviate from the official Event route, which will have directional signage throughout.
• The marking of the route does not necessarily indicate that the road, trail or path is free from hazards and the participant is deemed to make their own decision about whether it is safe for them to proceed.
• Firetrail Ltd insist that you use the route shown. If you choose a different route you do so entirely at your own risk.
• Firetrail Ltd reserve the right to shorten or alter the published routes at any time. Participants do not have the right to claim a refund if their route is changed.
• If you retire from the Event or leave your route at any point you will inform the nearest marshal or staff member as soon as possible and follow their directions as to the safest return route to the start/finish area where you must inform Event HQ of your retirement and return your electronic timing chip.
• A backmarker will follow the last participants on all routes. Any participant we consider unable to complete their route within a reasonable time will be asked to either get in a support vehicle and be taken back to the event base or the participant will be moved forward on the course.
• The Event Organiser will make every effort to provide participants with a race time but is not responsible for any electronic timing issues.

Medical Disclaimer

During online registration you agree and consent to the following medical disclaimer by ticking a box:

• You understand and acknowledge that participation in the Event may cause injury or injuries that may be categorised as minor, serious or catastrophic (see below).
• Minor injuries are common and may include but are not limited to: scrapes, bruises, sprains, nausea and cuts.
• Serious injuries are less common but do sometimes occur. They include but are not limited to: property loss or damage, broken bones, torn ligaments, concussion, exposure, cold- or heat-related illness, mental stress or exhaustion and infection.
• Catastrophic injuries are rare; however, we feel that our participants should be aware of the possibility. These injuries can include permanent disabilities, spinal injuries and paralysis, stroke, heart attack and even death.
• In the event of an accident or illness whilst taking part in this event, you hereby give permission to our staff and contracted first aiders to initiate first-aid treatment, any necessary medical transportation and to inform your next of kin.
• You understand that you are taking part in the Event in a remote and rural location at night where there may be a longer medical response time in the event of emergency.
• You agree to take part in this Event at your own risk and you will not hold us or our contractors responsible in the event of acute illness, injury or death.
• You have submitted true and accurate information of your medical history and present condition that may affect your participation or medical treatment in any part of the Event.
• You will inform us if any medical conditions have changed between submitting this information and the Event happening.
• We strongly recommend that you get personal health insurance for the Event.
• We will hire professional contractors to provide first-aid assistance who will have their own insurance. We take no responsibility for the actions of contracted services involved in the Event.
• We strongly recommend that you consult a doctor before undertaking any strenuous exercise, training programme or participating in the Event.
• Throughout the Event, you acknowledge and accept that you may be checked for suitability to continue on grounds of capability based on your state of health. If any of the marshals and medical staff believe that your safety is compromised by continuing to participate, they reserve the right to ask you to stop. If you continue in the Event you will no longer be officially participating in the Event and we take no further responsibility for your participation.

Data Disclaimer

During online registration you agree and consent to the following data disclaimer by ticking a box: Personal Data Terms and Conditions When purchasing an Illuminator ticket you agree and consent to the following terms and conditions: We at Firetrail Ltd will use your data to provide you with important and relevant information regarding the event and provide the services and experiences that are fundamental to your well-informed, safe and enjoyable participation, before, during and after the event. Medical/first aid: You consent to your personal information being provided to professional first aid and safety providers who perform vital safety services on our behalf. This includes the emergency services, professional first aid provider Avium Ltd and our own staff at Firetrail Ltd. The information provided to these companies will only be such information that is strictly required for performing their service. In particular, you specifically acknowledge the necessity for us to provide those engaged in providing first aid and marshalling services with the medical information that you provide to us in order to ensure your welfare during the Event. Images and video for marketing purposes: Official event photographers, film makers and drone film makers/photographers will be present at the event and may capture you. These images and video may be used on our official event websites: www.illuminatorrun.co.uk, www.firetrailevents.co.uk and by our event partners or on online event listings, blogs, newspaper articles and other forms of public marketing or news channels online or print media to promote the event. We will never link, identify, disclose or match your name to an image or film you may be present in. If you see your image on any of our official media channels we control you can request they are removed by emailing: info@firetrailevents.co.uk We may share your data with our third party administration, marketing & PR contractors to perform communications, market research and reporting for us that are relevant to the event. This may include things like age or general location demographics but will never individually identify you. We may also use data profiling to ensure that you receive tailored communications in the future. We will share your relevant data with our chosen race timing service provider, Racefox Ltd so they can provide you with a personalised race timing service at the event. The information provided to this company will only be such information that is strictly required for performing their service. Right to Access: At any time you can request details of the information we hold on you and request to be provided with electronic copies of that data. We can also show you where data is being securely stored and what it is being used for. You can make this request by emailing: info@firetrailevents.co.uk Right to be Forgotten: You may request access to, change or delete personal data held by us at any time. At any time you can request us to delete your personal data from our database and also stop sharing it with third parties (charity partner), who are then obligated to stop processing it. You can make this request by emailing: info@firetrailevents.co.uk Right to Complain: We work to hard to protect your data and only process it to provide you with the service you have consented to. If you have concerns, please contact us at info@firetrailevents.co.uk and we’ll respond. If you wish to make a complaint about our information rights practices you may do so directly to the Information Commissioners Office here: https://ico.org.uk/make-a-complaint/ Data Portability: Upon request, we can provide you with your personal data in a “commonly used machine-readable format”. You can make this request by emailing: info@firetrailevents.co.uk Data Retention period: We store personal data for 7 years from the date of your last consent/participation at the event. After this period your data will be permanently deleted unless you state otherwise.

Environmental Impact

We take the view that everything we do has an impact on the environment. Our aim is to reduce any negative impact of this event as much as possible whilst promoting responsible use of the natural environment.

• We supply recycling and general refuse bins at the event base and at the water station on route.

Is the race safe?

Due to the nature of the event, the exposed route, terrain and location there is an inherent risk to your well-being. Whilst it is impossible to guarantee your safety, we do consider it paramount. Detailed arrangements will be in place to ensure everyone enjoys an adventurous and challenging experience. Professional event staff and first-aid providers will be located at intervals around the course (please read our Terms and Conditions and Medical Disclaimer)

What happens if I can't complete the race?

If you feel you are unable to complete the course please inform one of our marshals and they, or a support vehicle, will assist you. However, you should expect to be self-sufficient around the course and prepared for bad weather and other challenges! (Please let us know of any medical issues). You will either be directed to return by a safe, waymarked route or if necessary you will be collected by our support staff and transported back to the event base.

What happens if I get timed out?

To ensure the safety of all participants and staff at the Illuminator we will be operating a strict cut-off time on all routes. However, these times are fair and realistic and most people will easily beat the cut off SO LONG AS YOU KEEP MOVING! ​ The cut off location for all routes is the LIGHT ZONE. You must reach the lightzone by 2200hrs You must reach the finishline by 2330hrs ​ For each route the lightzone occurs at the following distance: ​ 8km - The time out location is 4.2 kms into the route ​ 15km - The time out location is 10kms into the route ​ 15 Mile - The time out location is 12.4 miles (or 19.8 kms) into the route If you are timed out, our staff will look after you and ensure you are safely transported back to the event centre.

Medication

If you need medication please carry it with you around the course and ensure you have declared this on your registration form. If you have further questions regarding the event please contact us.

Running - What equipment is compulsory

Participants must be self-sufficient for running at night on rough trails WHATEVER the weather. Random spot checks will be conducted at registration and on the start line - you must wear or carry ALL the equipment listed below. The following items are COMPULSORY: Essential items Official photo ID PDF ticket (printout or on your phone screen) from your entry confirmation email Signed parental consent form if you're under 18 Any required medication Race clothing and footwear Trail running shoes with good grip Full sleeve and full leg synthetic sports base layer clothing (Lycra, Powerstretch etc.) Windproof/waterproof jacket Gloves and hat Race equipment Mobile phone A good quality powerful LED head torch that will give usable light for up to 10 hours. We strongly recommend a head torch with at least 160 lumens. We also strongly advise that you test your head torch whilst trail running at night in preparation for the event. Spare batteries/battery pack to fit head torch above OR spare head torch Emergency food item (gel, bar etc.) Spare warm layer (fleece, synthetic insulated jacket etc.) Rucksack with waterproof liner

Walking - What equipment is compulsory

Participants must be self-sufficient for walking at night on rough trails WHATEVER the weather. Random spot-checks will be conducted at registration and on the start line - you must have ALL the equipment listed below. The following items are COMPULSORY: Essential items Official photo ID PDF ticket (printout or on your phone screen) from your entry confirmation email Signed parental consent form if you're under 18 Any required medication Clothing and footwear Walking boots with good grip Full-sleeve base layer top (Lycra, Powerstretch etc.) Full-length warm walking trousers - e.g. softshell (no jeans or cords allowed) Waterproof jacket Waterproof trousers Warm layer (e.g. fleece, down jacket, synthetic insulation jacket etc.) Gloves and hat Equipment Mobile phone A good quality powerful LED head torch that will give usable light for up to 10 hours. We strongly recommend at head torch with at least 160 lumens. We also strongly advise that you test your head torch whilst trail walking at night in preparation for the event. Spare batteries/battery pack to fit head torch above OR spare head torch Emergency food item (gel, bar etc.) Rucksack with waterproof line

What else should I bring

The following list is for items that may also be useful before, during and after the event. They are non-compulsory items, but please consider them carefully: Pre- & post-event equipment Towel/s Full change of clothes and footwear Additional warm clothes (fleece, warm jackets etc.), you and your race clothing may be cold and wet! Warm hat and gloves Plastic bags/trug/plastic box to put all your wet equipment into Optional event equipment Flask/water bottle Running/walking gaiters Walking poles Scarf/buff

Running - training tips

The race requires sufficient aerobic endurance to complete a run on rough terrain, including considerable ascent and descent in the dark. In addition you must have the physical strength and resilience to look after yourself on exposed ground at night in inclement weather. Be prepared and make sure you choose a realistic distance for your ability! If you are new to running or are intending to increase your training load then it is a good idea to visit your doctor for a medical or health assessment, particularly if you smoke, have a medical condition, are overweight, or if there is a history of heart disease in your family. We strongly advise that you test your head torch whilst trail running at night (outwith street-lit areas). Make sure the light is strong enough for you to run confidently over rough terrain and that is lasts long enough (remember to take spare batteries!). Allow plenty of time to prepare yourself for the Illuminator. Slow and steady wins the training race. Regular shorter runs a few times a week are more productive than one big run a week. Indoor treadmills or elliptical trainers can be useful if the weather is horrible but nothing beats the real thing! Running with experienced like-minded people can really help you train successfully. We recommend the Deeside Runners as our local friendly club. Scottish Athleticsand Scottish Hill Racing can help you find your local club if you live further afield.

Walking - training tips

Walking the Illuminator requires sufficient stamina to complete a walk on rough terrain, including considerable ascent and descent in the dark. In addition you must have the equipment and resilience to look after yourself on exposed ground at night in inclement weather. Be prepared and choose a realistic distance suitable for your ability! If you are new to walking or are intending to increase your training load then it is a good idea to visit your doctor for a medical or health assessment, particularly if you smoke, have a medical condition, are overweight, or if there is a history of heart disease in your family. We strongly advise that you test your head torch whilst trail walking at night (outwith street-lit areas). Make sure the light is strong enough for you to walk confidently over rough terrain and that is lasts long enough (remember to take spare batteries!). Allow plenty of time to prepare yourself for the Illuminator. Build up your distance slowly.ﾠ Regular short walks a few times a week are more productive than one big walk a week. Indoor treadmills or elliptical trainers can be useful if the weather is horrible but nothing beats getting outside for a brisk walk! Walking with experienced like-minded people can really help you get outdoors and gain the skills, experience and confidence necessary for upland walking on your own. We recommend the Stonehaven Mountaineering and Hillwalking Club as our local friendly club. The Mountaineering Council of Scotland and British Mountaineering Council can help you find your local club if you live further afield

Illness & Injury

If you feel unwell or become injured at any point during the build-up to the event, stop and get medical advice immediately. Once you have the all-clear from your doctor to return to training remember that you CANNOT catch up on what you may have missed by training to excess. Return to exercise slowly and build up your distance gradually. We wish you a speedy return to health and wellbeing! Happy trails.

Eating & Drinking

Pre-Event:

• Try and eat a meal 2-3 hours before the event and then have a small snack and drink 30 minutes before the event – energy drink, banana etc.

How difficult are the routes

Which route you choose depends on how fit you are and how hard you want to push yourself! All routes include a lightzone, reflectives and refreshements so whichever you choose you are guaranteed the full Illuminator experience. 15 Mile - this route is only for runners and includes several steep ascents (600m in total) and descents on rough vehicle tracks and paths. As it traverses the entire high ridge above Glen Tanar severe weather conditions (high winds, rain, sleet, hail, snow) at night may well add significant difficulty. You will need to be ready for a challenge that requires stamina, aerobic fitness and lots of mental determination. 15Km - this route is for runners and walkers and includes two steep ascents and descents on rough vehicle tracks and paths. It traverses some of the high ridgeline above Glen Tanar and severe weather conditions (high winds, rain, sleet, hail, snow) at night may well add significant difficulty. You will need to be ready for a challenge that requires stamina and mental determination. 8Km - this route is for runners and walkers and includes one steep ascent and one descent on a rough vehicle track. It is almost entirely sheltered by trees and participants are not exposed on high ground. If you are new to trail running or walking this is the route for you. You will need to be ready for the final hill as this adds a significant challenge just after the feed station