Race Report | Scottish National Cross Triathlon Championships

The Scottish Highlands are no stranger to adventure, but few events capture their spirit quite like the Aviemore Triathlon. On Sunday 14th September 2025, athletes from across the UK and beyond descended on Loch Morlich and Glenmore Forest for the Scottish National Cross Triathlon Championships.

Durty Events, the team behind the race, are as committed to sustainability with competitors carrying their own hydration, with no disposable cups at aid stations. Race numbers are recyclable, and the traditional finisher’s t-shirt has become optional, with the equivalent cost donated to charity for those who choose to go without. These measures reflect a growing awareness that endurance sport and the natural landscapes it celebrates must coexist responsibly.

The aptly named Long Hard Durty sends competitors on a 1,000m swim, an 18km mountain bike ride through Glenmore Forest, and a 9km run on forest trails. The race begins in Loch Morlich’s cool waters, with wetsuits compulsory.

The day began with a chill in the air, a veil of mist hanging over Loch Morlich and the surrounding forest. As the sun rose, the clouds lifted to reveal a glorious autumn morning – the perfect stage for the Aviemore Triathlon.

In the open race, James Burnett set the pace early, powering through the swim to emerge first from the loch, closely pursued by Sam Burton, Finn Trenholm, Alex Hodge, and Doug Hall. Burnett carried their momentum into the bike leg, extending their lead and holding firm at the front, while Trenholm, Hall, and Calum Thomas battled for position behind. By the time the athletes hit the trails for the run, the podium places seemed set: Burnett leading, with Trenholm, Thomas, and Hall in close contention. It was the run, however, that sealed the result. Burnett delivered the fastest split of the day, clocking an impressive 34:09 to cement their victory. Hall edged out Trenholm with a stronger performance on the trails, taking second place, while Trenholm claimed the final spot on the podium.

The female race proved every bit as dramatic as the open race. Mia Padmanabhan set the tone with a superb swim, clocking 13:41 to emerge second overall and first among the women. Hot on her heels were Lucy Donaldson and Iona Hamilton, both pushing hard to keep the leader within sight.

The bike leg brought a shake-up to the standings. Elena McGorum Begara produced a brilliant ride, surging from joint fifth to second place and edging Donaldson out of podium contention. The final outcome would come down to the run, where Padmanabhan and McGorum Begara showed their strength once again, holding their positions to claim first and second. Behind them, Libby Smith unleashed an impressive run, climbing from fourth into third to secure the final spot on the podium.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the Aviemore Triathlon 2025 such a special event. The Durty Events team delivered a brilliant race in an unforgettable setting, supported by Technical Officials, marshals, and volunteers whose hard work and enthusiasm kept everything safe, smooth, and welcoming from start to finish.

Our thanks also goes to the spectators who lifted tired athletes with every cheer, and to the participants who brought courage, determination, and spirit on the day.

Full results