A Moray woman will cast aside her sweaty running clothes for a bridal gown after completing the Loch Ness Marathon later this year.
Lossiemouth couple, Sarah Louise Grigor and Chris Cull, are planning to get hitched at a hotel overlooking the finish line, just a few minutes after finishing the scenic 26-mile route.
The duo are aiming to take part in the race, arm-in-arm, before dashing off to the celebrations on September 24.
However, though Mrs Grigor will ditch her running vest for the walk down the aisle, she is insisting on wearing trainers under the dress.
The personal trainer, who will be involved in her 100th marathon on her wedding day, said: “I know brides are traditionally late for the wedding, but hopefully, we’ll be able to keep up a decent pace, so I don’t leave Chris waiting too long.
“We’re aiming to do it in about four-and-a-half hours, but the most important thing is that we cross the line together.
“It holds very special memories for me. It [Loch Ness] was my first marathon and it was where I was bitten by the running bug – it was also my 10th marathon and this year will be my 10th time running it.”
The bride-to-be, 47, will be joined by Mr Cull, 49, on the Loch Ness route for the first time this year.
And the couple will be supported by Mrs Grigor’s 17-year-old daughter, Bethany Hume, who will be taking part in her first marathon before being her mother’s bridesmaid.
Mr Cull added: “I’ve run quite a few marathons, but never made it to Loch Ness. Sarah always talks about how amazing the course is and what a great atmosphere there is – I know it holds a very special place in her heart.
“When Sarah told me she was aiming to make the 2017 race – the one that would take her into the 100 club – I wanted to do something that would make it even more memorable and special.
“That’s when I suggested we have the wedding afterwards. So many of our friends are runners and will be taking part, it seemed perfect.”
Entries for the marathon, 10K, 5K and pre-school race can be made online at www.lochnessmarathon.com.
