The historic home of horseracing in Perth is enjoying a new lease of life as a premium racetrack.
While the North Inch is no longer frequented by equine competitors, it has become a hub for two-legged athletes.
Runners from across the country flock to the Fair City each year to take part in the various events on offer and 2013 will be no different.
In addition to the popular Race for Life in May and the potentially world record-breaking Kilt Run in August, a new gathering has been added to the park’s calendar.
It is hoped that the introduction of the jogscotland One Big Weekend will help boost tourism in Perth by bringing hundreds of people to the city to sample what it has to offer to the running community.
Described as a “one-of-a-kind” event, it takes place on August 3 from 6pm and gives members of the jogscotland community the rare opportunity to meet up in one place, as well as providing non-members with the chance to pull their trainers on and try something new.
Director Neil Kilgour said he was “delighted” to be introducing the event to the Fair City.
“We’re delighted to be working alongside jogscotland to host this new and exciting event in Perth,” he said.
“One Big Weekend is open to all levels of running ability, offering fitness and fun over one weekend of running.
“This is so much more than your usual 5km run for a start, it’s chip-timed, giving jogscotland members and other runners the chance to work towards a goal and set a personal best. We hope this event will be loved by runners who want to make it an exciting addition to the Scottish running calendar.”
Although the route has yet to be confirmed, the majority of it will be set within the North Inch park, giving both spectators and runners the chance to enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the river Tay.
A junior event will also be available, following a shorter 1km course, and is aimed at children aged 10 years and under.
It is expected that hundreds of athletes, as well as their friends and family, will gather in Perth for the evening run.
Mr Kilgour added: “We can’t wait to welcome everyone to One Big Weekend Perth.
“This promises a really enjoyable, friendly event, where people from all over the area can come together and celebrate their love of walking, jogging and running, while taking in the stunning views alongside the west bank of the River Tay.”
One Big Weekend Perth is just one of four events taking place in Scotland, with similar runs being held in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Those taking part can use the 5km run to have fun, achieve a new personal best, or raise money.
Although it isn’t competitive, prizes will be awarded to those who make it over the line first and who enjoy notable individual achievements. Every runner will also receive a medal and goody bag to mark the occasion.
Head of jogscotland, Billy Mitchell, said: “We’re looking forward to seeing lots of jogscotland members, their family and friends and to welcoming plenty of people who are coming along to find out about jogscotland for the first time.
“Just like our jog groups, the events will be friendly and supportive perfect for people of all abilities.”
For further information about One Big Weekend, or to register for the event, go to jogscotlandonebigweekend.com.