The 2013 Scottish National Middle Distance Championships will take place on August 17th at Live Active Leisure's 23rd Annual Triathlon Event.

Hosting the National Championships is yet another feather in the cap of Live Active's long-standing race which is based once more from the Breadalbane Community Campus in Aberfeldy, Highland Perthshire.

Last year, it was one of three races shortlisted as "Event of the Year" in Triathlon Scotland's Annual Awards. In 2011 it brought home the coveted "Most Enjoyable Race" title in the same awards.

Highland Perthshire boasts some of Scotland's most beautiful scenery; the breath-taking countryside around Aberfeldy is one of the many reasons why this race is such a popular event on the circuit. The Middle Distance provides plenty of uphill challenges and its open water 1900M swim takes place in the wonderful Loch Tay. The cycle covers 90km of mixed terrain and a 21km run finishes this stunning race.

Richard Pearson, Live Active's Facilities Operations Manager for their Highland Perthshire venues told us, "The atmosphere at both events is electric. Participants come from all over to enjoy the community buzz and fantastic location. We often forget just how spoiled we are with our amazing scenery and this event helps to remind us just how much we have to offer."

The buzz that Richard talks about comes from the local community in Aberfeldy who fully embrace both events as their own. Businesses and residents rally round to provide the 100 volunteers required to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely. That "Most Enjoyable Race" title was awarded for good reason!

Richard finished by saying, "You'll also find a good few locals out pounding the streets in the run up to the race. Everyone is determined to take advantage of that fact that they are on home turf; and if it's not a win it had better at least beat last year's times!"