Ian Beattie steps down from key role with West Highland Way Race

Friday 8th August 2025

Ian Beattie is stepping away from his role as lead organiser for the West Highland Way Race.

The annual event is hugely popular with our ultra community and Ian has been highly influential in fostering the community.

Now he will step aside after 16 years as Race Director with Adrian Stott to take over, with further support from John and Helen Munro.

Here’s a message from Ian:

‘After much thought, I have decided that this is the right time for me to step back from my position as Race Director of the West Highland Way Race.

‘Having discussed this with the race committee, I am delighted to say that Adrian Stott will step up and take on the role of Race Director, and John and Helen Munro will take on the newly created role of Race Co-ordinator.

‘We have agreed that I will remain involved, both as a consultant to the race and as the race treasurer, and will help ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities to Adrian, John and Helen.

‘The West Highland Way Race has been a huge part of my life for the best part of 30 years. I have been involved in it since 1998, originally as a runner and part of a support crew, before taking over as Race Director following Dario Melaragni’s untimely passing in 2009.

‘It has been an absolute honour and privilege to be the Race Director since 2010, and I am extremely grateful to everyone for all the help and support they have given to me during that time.

‘One of the unique aspects of the race, and something we have all worked hard to maintain, is the ‘race family’ aspect of the event.

‘It is a hard thing to describe to those who have not been part of it, but everyone who plays a role in this wonderful event knows exactly what it means and what a very special group of people are involved in it.

‘I know Adrian, John, Helen and the rest of the team will continue to foster that culture going forward and I wish them every success as they steer the direction of the race in the future.’

On behalf of the community: Thanks, Ian.