Barra’s Hell’s Hop to host swimrun competition in 2016

THE organisers of Loch Gu Loch Swimrun have announced their next extreme outdoors venture, to take place in the Outer Hebrides on 10 September 2016.

Athletes compete at the Loch Gu Loch swimrun earlier this year. Picture: Steve Ashworth

Hell’s Hop will challenge athletes from around the world to run and swim their way across the Scottish islands, including a 2km stretch across the famous Sound of Barra - sometimes known as the island of Flodday or Flodaigh.

The swimrun competition concept originated in Sweden in 2006, and has since become popular in both Europe and America. The sport involves many transitions between swimming and running as competitors race cross-country.

A sophisticated GPS tracking system will be in place for the safety of the athletes involved, as well as to provide entertainment for fans watching online.

The event is eagerly anticipated after the success of Scotland’s inaugural swimrun competition Loch Gu Loch Swimrun in Loch Ness on 26 September this year.

The organisers chose the location for Hell’s Hop as a more ambitious, remote and beautiful backdrop for what will undoubtedly be a momentous occasion.