The Kilted Mile

The Kilted Mile Race has a tradition dating to the reign of King Malcolm III. He decreed that a foot race be held, beginning at the current site of Braemar Castle, and finishing at the top of grim and forbidding Creag Choinnich.

According to tradition, young MacGregor was late starting the race, but sped like a deer and climbed the crag without a stumble. As he overtook the leaders, his elder brother tried to hold him back by grabbing his kilt. Knowing his brother's strength, and being himself uninhibited, he slipped of his kilt, and so gained the victory.

The Kilted Mile has been an event at the Portland Highland Games since 1991. This year will mark the 20th Kilted Mile race. Runners compete in age/gender specific categories. The fastest overall runner is awarded 2 perpetual awards: The Memorial Sword and the George Kelly Memorial Award. The top runners from each category also receive awards. All runners receive a commemorative t-shirt.

Runners today are required to wear their Highland kilts for the entire race.