The “Blades” in race the blades refer to the propellors of the wind turbines at Whitelee wind farm, where the race takes place. As the tips of the blades travel at around 300 mph, even an F1 car would have trouble racing the blades. At around 8mph, I might challenge the blades for a race but I would be left in the starting block while it was doing victory laps.

Despite the impossible challenge of the name, Races the Blades is a great off road half marathon held annually in July. There is also a 10k version and ultramarathon option for those who prefer a shorter or a longer challenge.

I’ve entered before and you can find a previous report here. It’s a tricky race, with a rolling course and an annoying hill around the 9 mile point. But, it’s a scenic race with varied train taking you from moorland, to forests to loch side to moorland again with only the sound of the turbines remaining constant. Whumf. Whumf. Whumf.

This year the weather was challenging. The race is held at a wind farm and when it’s windy, it the best spot in the world to be out in the wind. Unless you’re running. In which case it feels like running into jelly. And today was very windy. Except when the heavens opened. Then we were soaked to the skin. It was a real proper Scottish four seasons race. It was just a pity that two of those seasons were hurricane and monsoon.

The race is very well organised and if you like raining on tracks, this is a great event, which is not too far from Glasgow.

Particular praise for the organisers recognising the most important thing for athletes starting a race – plenty of portaloos. Sometimes, when you get to a race, there is only a handful of portaloos for a few hundred runners. Race the Blades had over 20. Fantastic (if you’re looking for a toilet just before you start).

Overall, this is fourth time I’ve run this race and I recommend it to anyone looking for a challenging rolling course through moorland and forests. Just don’t try and race the blades.