Hollywood actors are being invited to run in this year’s Baxters Loch Ness Marathon – because of their “monster” quality.
Mike Myers, the face of Austin Powers and voice behind Shrek, and Billy Crystal and John Goodman, the voices of wisecracking monsters Sully and Mike from Monsters, Inc, have been asked to take part, along with the stars of the new dinosaur movie sequel, Jurassic World.
Organisers of the marathon are hoping they come and test their endurance at the home of Scotland’s very monster on September 27.
Hollywood director Steven Spielberg, synonymous with box office blockbusters Jurassic Park, Jaws and ET, is being welcomed along with lead actors Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard.
As a plesiosaur, Nessie shares pre-historic roots with dinosaurs.
Alan “Howling Laud” Hope, leader of the UK Official Monster Raving Loony Party, which fielded 16 candidates in May’s General Elections, is also being invited to the Highlands.
Race director Malcolm Sutherland said: “Whether they choose to run in the race, or simply be part of the crowds cheering along the runners, there will be a warm Highland welcome guaranteed to anyone that is part of the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon 2015.
“Monsters play an important part of the area’s folklore and history. The legend and mystery of Nessie, along with the breathtaking scenery of Loch Ness, is one of the main reasons why people enter the event and travel from all over the world to take part.”
About 9,000 runners are expected to join the event which comprises the marathon, River Ness 10K, 10K Corporate Challenge and River Ness 5K as well the Wee Nessie fun run for pre-school children.
The official charity for this year is Macmillan Cancer Care, with five lead affiliate charities.
These are Alzheimer Scotland, Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, Highland Hospice, MND Scotland and MS Society.
There are also 20 affiliate charities.
An estimated £1.3million was generated for charity at last year’s event.