Epic Journey from Banburgh to Edinburgh A Challenge for the Brave in the 100 Mile Rat Race ~ Rachael Johnston

Rat race: Castle to Casle Bamburgh to Edinburgh 100miler

I started running in Feb 2023 after getting a Great North Run place and in doing so discovered the mental and physical benefits and most importantly that I really enjoyed it. After completing GNR I entered and completed Manchester, York and Brighton marathons in 24/25. Then I discovered trail running and loved being out in nature so entered the Ultra tour of Arran in 26. I started focussed training for this at the start of 2026 and it was the most spectacular awe-inspiring experience.

I then began coaching with Kerry from Perpetual Motion Coaching supported by Into Ultra to get me ready for an attempt at my first 100 miler with Rat Race Castle to Castle Bamburgh to Edinburgh. I had a great training block and remained injury free, whilst adding a variety of sessions, strength training and yoga into my routine alongside running on Kerry’s advice. This also included testing my kit and nutrition approach to ensure I was ready for such a big adventure, and Kerry was always on hand to provide support and advice.

Finally, it was the 4th July and I was stood in Bamburgh at the start line raring to go at 7am, I was surprisingly relaxed knowing I had done everything I could to give it a go and I was excited to get started.

We we’re blessed with glorious weather and running in a beautiful part of the world. During the race I broke the distance down into pit stop per pit stop section to make it seem more manageable and took the time to enjoy the scenery, people around me and the whole experience.

I ensured I was hydrated by taking at least a sip at every mile which worked well as my watch was a reminder. At each pit stop I refilled my bottles, made sure to eat (the pit stops were really well catered but I also found having real meal drinks , Quorn items and a instant noodle really helpful too) .Then I cleaned and aired my feet , reapplied lube to them and changed into fresh socks, this allowed me to complete the 100 with no foot issues at all .

Running through the night was a new and interesting experience and I started hallucinating on the approach to Dunbar, I was glad to have my partner Jay with me at this point for support. When I reached Dunbar I pivoted and had a unplanned 20 minute sleep using a buff over my eyes and silver foil blanket on a leisure centre sun lounger. My sleep bag was at the next pitstop, but I knew I needed to sleep to continue. After waking feeling refreshed, I ate some hot food, had a baby wipe shower full outfit change and set off again to the next pit stop.

I did a lot of this section solo which I found hard going, so at the next pitstop buddied up with a group of runners that chatting to made the miles go quickly. I also changed into road shoes at this point as the terrain allowed and it gave my feet more cushioning.

At the last pitstop I was conscious of seizing up while the rest of the group got sorted so set off solo once again. After climbing a lot of stairs up Arthur’s seat , cruel with only 3 miles to go ha . I was greeted with an outstanding view of Edinburgh and my final destination the castle. Emotion came over me and I shed a little tear in the knowledge I had plenty of time and was so close to the finish. I was conscious that the event was nearly over and to enjoy the journey down Arthurs seat and up the iconic Royal Mile (even extending it slightly to get a photo as close to the castle as possible). The route then descended into and through Princess Street Gardens when adrenaline took over and allowed for a sprint finish.

I am chuffed that I managed to not only complete the course but enjoy it too and will be eternality grateful to Into Ultra and Kerry for all the help and support to get me there. After getting home I have just used my volunteer credits to book the next leg Edinburgh to Glamis next year and I’m already excited for it!