Chris Grundberg of Accelerace forwarded this report from what was almost certainly the toughest challenge on the calendar this weekend.

Race started 5am Saturday in Loch Morar, conditions were perfect, with clear skies and eight starters. The 3.5 mile swim was tough, and the cold water sadly meant 3 competitors withdrew during the swim. Stuart Reid made his intentions clear early, with a very strong swim, exiting the water in 1hr21, ahead of Gary Fegan in 1hr37 and Paul McGrealin 1hr52. A little further back were Carl Atkinson in 2hr19 and Nick Mansley in 3hr5.

The weather stayed fine for the ride, with competitors winding their way across the Western Highlands for the most part in sunshine. Stuart completed the 175-mile ride in 11hr07 - extending his lead over Gary to 44mins, who in turn finished the ride in a strong 11hr32. Carl Atkinson was unfortunate to experience a mechanical issue, when a spoke snapped on his carbon wheels, but all five competitors made it safely to T2 at Kenmore, although most cursed the organisers for the sting in the tail of the bike leg, in the form of the exceptionally tough last 7 miles.

The 35-mile run is particularly notable for passing over one of the highest roads in Britain, and all the runners were very aware of this as they set off. Having held off all day, the weather closed in around midnight, making the climb over the Pass of the Cattle even tougher. Stuart and Gary made it over before the weather truly turned, but Paul and Nick (who over-took Carl early on the run) caught the full brunt of both wind and rain on the most exposed part of the route. Carl had unfortunately not begun the climb by the time the weather turned, and having been soaked through several times, was forced to hole up in his support car, and eventually made the very painful decision to withdraw.

Stuart Reid won the inaugural West Highlands Ultra in 20hr19, setting an excellent initial record, and laying down the gauntlet for future years. Gary Fegan put in the fastest run split 7hr07, enough to narrow Stuart's lead at the finish to 15 minutes, and finished in 20hr34. Paul McGreal finished in 23hr31, and Nick Mansley beat his target of 24hrs by 5mins.

Huge congratulations to all competitors for what was an epic performance all round, and also to their respective support crews. For full results, photos, video and further race details, check out the Accelerace website at www.accelerace.co.uk.