One of the Highland's most exciting school sporting events is almost here — and we can't wait!
The McRobert Cup returns to Torvean Park, Inverness on Wednesday 25 March 2026, bringing together hundreds of young runners from schools across Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch, and Strathspey for a day of fierce but friendly competition.
What is the McRobert Cup?
First held in 2003, the McRobert Cup is our flagship annual cross-country running event for primary school pupils — and it's grown into one of the biggest school athletics events in the Highlands. This year, we're expecting almost 800 Primary 4 to Primary 7 pupils to take to the course, with 39 schools represented on the start line.
It's a day that's as much about community spirit and fun as it is about competition — and it never fails to deliver both in abundance.
How does the competition work?
Races are split by age group and gender, with separate events for P4/5 and P6/7 pupils. Schools enter teams of up to six runners, with the top four finishers counting toward the team score.
To keep competition fair, team events are divided into two sections — Section 1 for smaller schools and Section 2 for larger schools — so every school has a genuine chance of glory.
There are also individual prizes up for grabs, so solo runners have plenty to race for too.
When and where
Date: Wednesday 25 March 2026
Location: Torvean Park, Inverness
Course opens and registration: 09:45
First race: 10:50
Presentations: Approximately 11:50
The course at Torvean Park offers a fun and challenging route in beautiful surroundings — perfect for young runners looking to test themselves.
Spectators and parking
Spectators are very welcome — come along and cheer on the runners! Limited parking is available at Torvean Park car park with overspill at the nearby Inverness Leisure and Canal Park. Please consider car-sharing or using public transport, for example, the number 16 bus service stops at Torvean Park and Ride. If you do bring a car, please park responsibly and considerately.
This is an outdoor event in the north of Scotland in March, so please wrap up warm and dress for the weather!
Keep an eye out for our media leaders
We'll have a team of young media leaders on the ground capturing video, interviews, and all the best moments from the day. Look out for them at the finish line and on the podium — and keep an eye on our social media channels for highlights after the event.
From McRobert to the Olympics — you never know where running takes you
Here's an inspiring thought for every young runner lining up at the start line this year: Megan Keith — Inverness-born European U23 Cross Country Champion and Olympian — ran the McRobert Cup as a pupil at Crown Primary School, just like many of you competing this year.
Megan went on to become one of Scotland's most exciting distance runners, representing Team GB at the Paris 2024 Olympics and recently finishing third in her half marathon debut in New York. In 2023, she returned to the McRobert Cup to present medals to over 900 young participants — a full circle moment that says everything about what this event means to the athletes it helps shape.
Her story is a brilliant reminder that the McRobert Cup isn't just a race — it's where careers begin. Who knows what the runners of 2026 might go on to achieve?
Good luck to all taking part!
We're incredibly proud of every pupil, teacher, and school that makes the McRobert Cup the special event it has become. We'll see you at Torvean Park on Wednesday 25th March — whatever the weather!
