Thousands of runners of all ages pounded the streets in and around Inverness at the weekend for the 15th Baxters Loch Ness Marathon.
The festival of running took in races for children right up to the showpiece 26.2 mile marathon.
Among those to cross the finish line in the main event was 75-year-old Masami Yabuta from Tokyo, who completed his 700th marathon.
He was part of a contingent of 21 pensioners from Japan – aged between 61 and 80 – from the legendary Full Hyaku Running Club.
All of its members have run at least 100 marathons.
Also across the finish at Bught Park in the heart of Inverness – the capital of the Highlands – were five runners who have taken part in every edition of the scenic challenge since its launch 15 years ago.
Erica Christie and Fiona Rennie from Carnegie Harriers; Perth Road Runners members Kenneth Stewart and John Cassells, and Lucy Mackay, of Bellahouston Road Runners were honoured at a special ceremony on Saturday.
Race director Malcolm Sutherland said he believes the 15th anniversary edition was one of the best yet.
He added: “The atmosphere throughout the whole weekend has been incredible and it has been a real delight to see so many people enjoying themselves as the results of their hard work and training over many weeks and months pays off.
“Once again we owe the local community and our volunteers a huge debt of gratitude for the way in which they have welcomed thousands of runners to the area, helping to ensure they leave with very fond memories of the event.”
The marathon was won by Mohammad Abu-Rezeq from Altrincham in a time of 2:20:52. The first female over the line was Jennifer Wetton from Central AC who finished in 2:47:03.
The first Highland resident home was Paul Smith from Inverness in 2:56:14.
Audrey Baxter, executive chairwoman and group CEO of title sponsors Baxters Food Group, said: “This was a great day for running, and a great day for the community. For an event like this to not only maintain the standard it set 15 years ago but to get better every year is a truly amazing achievement.
“Baxters is delighted to once again be a part of this fantastic and inclusive event, which encourages and celebrates the achievements of runners of all abilities.”
