2500 TWEED CLAD DEERSTALKERS TO RUN RIOT IN THE BORDERS

THE MIGHTY DEERSTALKER IS BACK IN 2010!
A turbo-charged roller coaster of an adventure run in the beautiful Scottish Borders

Saturday 20 March 2010

Up to 2,500 men and women dressed in handlebar moustaches, deerstalkers and full tweed are expected to cross icy rivers, scramble up steep scree slopes and battle through dense forest, from daylight to darkness, as they compete in the 2010 Mighty Deerstalker, the most outlandish trail running event in the British calendar.

Such is the popularity of the Deerstalker (5km) and Mighty Deerstalker (10km) adventure runs, starting and finishing in front of the majestic Traquair House, near Innerleithen in the Scottish Borders on Saturday 20 March and tackling the rugged multi-terrain of the Tweed Valley, that entries have quadrupled in only four years.

Since 2007 The Mighty Deerstalker concept has been a winning formula for organisers Detail Events and their partners Scottish Borders Council and EventScotland.  Jim Mee, Managing Director of Detail Events, organisers of the Mighty Deerstalker, said: "By launching the adventure-style, challenging and fun-fuelled format of the Deerstalker in 2007, we knew we could tempt runners of all ages and abilities away from the comfort of the road and into the rugged and evocative landscape of the Tweed Valley.

“The response has been incredible with entry numbers growing significantly year on year.  From 600 runners in 2007 to an expected 2500 elite athletes, weekend warriors and first time have-a-go heroes ready for a bit of mud, sweat and beers in 2010, we know we have created the winning formula for our participants.“

Alongside some lung busting ascents and descents the intrepid athletes will also be faced with a series of challenging obstacles from start to finish.  In the past the tests of both nerve and courage have included the straw bale wall, the ice cold 'Big Pond' with super-suction mud, the log balance bars, prickly tunnels, slippery tree-lined banks, cargo nets, a flooded tunnel (The Sump) and an arena-style assault course.

However organisers, Detail Events, are quick to point out that it takes more than a rugged and evocative landscape to make a successful event. Jim Mee added; “The proactive approach and support of Scottish Borders Council and EventScotland have been instrumental in not only developing the Deerstalker but also in supporting our plans to further grow the race this year and beyond.

“These bodies have been quick to spot the potential in the event for the Scottish Borders and Scotland. Developing a unique event like the Deerstalker in these conditions is a joy with such forward thinking and innovative partners.”

Councillor Vicky Davidson, Executive Member for Economic Development, said: "Scottish Borders Council is delighted to see the hugely popular Mighty Deerstalker back on our hills again in 2010 showcasing the stunning natural features of the Tweed Valley to an even greater number of competitors.  Personally I'm happy we have been able to support the event again this year adding to the entertainment and attractions on offer over what will be a fantastic weekend."

Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer of EventScotland, the national events agency, said: “The Scottish Borders is, in many ways, synonymous with adventure sports and the Mighty Deerstalker is a great fit with that profile.  Since its inception, the event has quadrupled in size and 2010 entries are expected to reach 2,500, proving its huge appeal and outstanding quality.

“EventScotland is delighted to be supporting the further growth of this hugely promising event.”

At The Deerstalker fancy dress is naturally de rigeur and prizes are awarded for the best country attire.  The fashion Police have NOT been invited so organisers expect everything from plus-fours, Deerstalker caps or antlers, full cravat-and-sports-jacket ensemble, moustache, pipe and monocle to Lycra, skin tight and very inappropriate shorts and brightly coloured knee length socks.

Both runs take place in the evening following a day of merry-making in the grounds of the beautiful Traquair House, Scotland's oldest continually inhabited house. With local food and drink, music and a programme of entertainment in the event village for both athletes, supporters, spectators and families, the Deerstalker has a very sociable atmosphere all of its own.

To savour the flavour of this superlatively wacky event; or to grow antlers and front up to the big, bad and just-a-little-bit-surreal trail run with bite log onto www.themightydeerstalker.com

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Media Contact:
Paddy Cuthbert | Podge Publicity | M: 07968699636 | e: paddy@podge.co.uk