Monstrous Achievement as Baxters Loch Ness Marathon smashes records with fastest sell-out in event history

Highland icon hits capacity 3 months earlier than 2025 as global demand for the monster race reaches new heights. Charity places still remain for the bucket list event.

The Baxters Loch Ness Marathon has officially sold out of general entries for its 2026 edition, marking the fastest sell-out in the event’s 24-year history. Demand for the world-renowned marathon has reached unprecedented levels, hitting capacity a staggering 3 months quicker than the previous record set for the 2025 race.

The rapid sell-out cements the event’s status as a premier global bucket list marathon, with thousands of participants from across the UK and overseas securing their spot on the start line in the Scottish Highlands. The surge in popularity follows a record-breaking 2024 and 2025, where the event saw its highest-ever participation numbers and course records smashed.

The Only Way In: Charity Places

For the thousands of runners who missed out on general entry, the door is not completely closed. The only remaining way to secure a bib for the full 26.2-mile distance on September 27, 2026, is through one of the event’s official charity partners.

With general spots exhausted months ahead of schedule, organisers are urging hopeful participants to act fast and run for a cause. Over 30 charities still have a limited number of guaranteed places available for those willing to fundraise.

Limited Availability: 10K and 5K Entries

While the marathon has reached its limit, general entries remain open for the Baxters River Ness 10K and 5K. However, with the marathon selling out at record speed, organisers anticipate a halo effect that will see these distances fill up much faster than usual.

Malcolm Sutherland, CEO at Caledonian Concepts, commented: “The speed at which the 2026 marathon has sold out is phenomenal. To hit capacity 3 months earlier than last year – which was already a record-breaker – shows the incredible appetite for this event. For those who missed out, we highly encourage looking into our charity partner places. It’s a powerful way to experience the magic of the Loch Ness finish line while making a tangible difference to incredible causes.”

The weekend is more than just a marathon; the Festival of Running will once again transform Bught Park in Inverness into a celebration of sport and culture, featuring the Baxters Food Village and the Sports Expo.

For those still hoping to take part, charity places and final 10K and 5K spots can be found at: www.lochnessmarathon.com