Just under two years ago, in December 2020, I was sat on my couch, more likely to run out of snacks than actually go for a run. Flash forward to October 2022, and there I was, standing on the start line of the Loch Ness Marathon, ready to face the beast – not the mythical Loch Ness Monster, but the 26.2 miles stretching out in front of me.

The journey from couch potato to marathon runner wasn’t achieved in a single leap. First, I tackled a Couch to 5K program. The initial stages saw me panting my way through one-minute intervals of running, wondering if I’d ever be able to run for a bus, let alone a marathon. But, much like a TV binge-watcher promising “just one more episode,” I persisted. Week after week, I saw progress. Gradually, the intervals of walking became less frequent, and before I knew it, I was running 5K without stopping!

Riding high on the thrill of accomplishing the 5K, my sights set on the next milestone: a half marathon. In September 2021, barely a year after completing Couch to 5K, I crossed the finish line of my first half marathon. The sensation was euphoric, a heady mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. It was in this moment I truly caught the running bug. If I could run a half marathon, why not double the distance? Famous last words, as they say.

I decided on the Loch Ness Marathon for my 26.2-mile debut, motivated by the stunning Scottish scenery and the slim chance of spotting Nessie during the race. Following Hal Higdon’s Novice 2 Marathon Plan, my life became a blur of long runs, hill repeats, tempo workouts, and so much carb-loading that I practically turned into a loaf of bread. But hey, it was all in the name of training, right?

The morning of the Loch Ness Marathon was surreal. There’s something simultaneously exciting and terrifying about standing at the start line, knowing you’re about to run further than you ever have before. As the starting gun went off, so did the butterflies in my stomach.

The Loch Ness Marathon starts in an area near the northernmost shore of Loch Ness, known as Whitebridge. You’re immediately immersed in stunning Scottish wilderness. With towering pine forests, mirror-like lochs, and quaint little villages, this part of the course feels like a scene straight out of a postcard. But don’t be fooled by the picturesque surroundings, the course is as challenging as it is beautiful.

As the race commences, runners are treated to a gently undulating descent towards the southern shore of Loch Ness. This downhill stretch is a great way to ease into the race and soak up the ethereal morning mist rising from the loch. Even amidst the nerves and excitement, it’s impossible not to appreciate the mystical allure of Loch Ness.

Next, we reach the midpoint of the course, where things start to get a bit more challenging. It’s here that runners are greeted by the infamous Loch Ness Monster Hill. This stretch, between miles 18 and 19, is as monstrous as the creature it’s named after. Just when your legs are beginning to tire, you’re tasked with a daunting uphill battle. But every uphill has a downhill, and upon conquering the Monster Hill, you’re rewarded with a respite in the form of a sweet downhill run.

After descending from the highlands, the course veers right towards Dores at the northernmost tip of Loch Ness. From here, the race traces the River Ness towards the finish line at Bught Park in the heart of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

The final stretch through the historic city of Inverness offers a wonderful contrast to the wild nature of the previous miles. Cheering crowds line the streets, providing an extra boost just when you need it most. The sight of Inverness Castle in the distance signals that the finish line is near, stirring a surge of adrenaline that propels you forward.

As you cross the finish line, you realise the dual nature of the Loch Ness Marathon course. It’s an intoxicating blend of wild, remote landscapes, challenging hills, and the lively city finish – all under the watchful eye of the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Crossing the finish line of the Loch Ness Marathon was an emotional, triumphant moment. I’d done it. From couch potato to marathon runner in less than two years. As I bent over to catch my breath, a finisher’s medal now hanging proudly around my neck, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of immense pride.

Running a marathon isn’t just about the physical challenge, it’s about discovering what you’re capable of, pushing boundaries, and realising that, yes, you’re stronger than you think. So, for anyone considering making the leap from couch to marathon, I’d say go for it! The journey is filled with highs and lows, challenges and triumphs, but the feeling of crossing that finish line is worth every step.

And who knows? Maybe you’ll even spot Nessie during your training runs!