The Race Across Scotland is no ordinary race. Organised by GP Ultras, this epic coast-to-coast challenge covers a over 215 miles in a single stage, pushing runners to their limits. Starting on the coastline of Portpatrick, runners set off on Saturday to take on the stunning but unforgiving Southern Upland Way, through mountains, valleys, ancient forests, and trails steeped in Scottish history.
Every year, an international field descends on this fantastic race, and 2025 has been no exception. The competition was fierce, and we already have the first 2 runners over the line, with a third not far behind.
This years winner was Iain Bethune, completing the mammoth challenge in 58 hours and 18 minutes, a remarkable display of endurance and mental strength. Shortly after, and in a great time was Ed Payne of Ireland, crossing the finish in 61 hours and 8 minutes.
As we write this, the final podium spot looks set to go to Dave Walker Blair, expected to complete in around 63 hours.
Live tracking can be found here -> https://map.racetracker.no/?race=race_across_scotland_215mile_2025
Full results will be available once every athlete has crossed the line, and we’ll be sharing our interview with Ed Payne in the coming days.
For now, hats off to all the runners out there, whether you’re chasing a podium or just determined to make it to the finish, the Race Across Scotland is as much about courage and perseverance as it is about speed.
Race Across Scotland 2025 – Quick Facts
- Event: Race Across Scotland – GP Ultras
- Distance: 215 miles (346 km)
- Stage: Single stage, continuous race
- Route: Coast-to-coast along the Southern Upland Way
- Start: Portpatrick, West Coast of Scotland
- Finish: Cockburnspath, East Coast
- Cut-off Time: Wednesday, 12th August 2025 (96 hours after start)
- Terrain: Mountains, valleys, forests, historic trails
- 2025 Winner: Iain Bethune – 58:18:00
- 2nd Place: Ed Payne (Ireland) – 61:08:00
- 3rd Place (expected): Dave Walker Blair – ~63:00:00
- Notable: One of the UK’s toughest endurance events, attracting an international ultra-running field