The Hebridean Challenge is a relay race using only human power to negotiate a course of up to 700 km in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It is not just an event for super-fit athletes (though we normally have a few in the race) but is aimed at people who consider themselves to be fit, and competent at navigating in the outdoors. As one recent competitor put it, "the best qualification for this event is a love of wild places."

Not only are the islands wild, remote and beautiful, they also provide unique physical and logistical challenges due to the varied terrain, which ranges from rocky hills, rough grass and heather, huge white beaches and myriad small, and not so small, lochs and lochans. Nearly all of this terrain is open to competitors travelling on foot and as there are few paths, route choice is almost limitless.

While teams traverse the land on foot, or by road bike and mountain bike where there are tracks, the race also takes place on water, either by sea kayak or swimming. Each day of the race there is at least one swimming section of up to 800 m, which can be in the sea or a loch. Generally, competitors seem to find the swims extremely exhilarating, even (or maybe especially) if they don't have a competitive swimming background.

To give an idea of the scope of the race we have created a simple schematic of the 2004 course. Or look at some of the coverage of past events through the main menu options.

Partly to keep things simple and partly to keep everyone busy, the teams are unsupported in the race, but use one vehicle to move all of their equipment. This means that one team member at least will usually be with the vehicle; either moving it up the course; preparing food or gear for incoming or outgoing team members; or just trying to grab a few moments rest.

The Heb is very much set in the community and is meant to be enjoyable for everyone taking part. Unlike some non-stop adventure races the Heb is not an unremitting slog. The race stops each night at a community hall where a three course home cooked meal is provided. Teams generally camp in the area around the halls, though there is often some space available on hall floors too once teams have finished their planning for the next day. We have also managed in all the races to date to have a couple of masseurs in attendance who for a small fee will attempt to alleviate any particular strains or sprains picked up during the day. All of this gives the competitors a decent chance of recovery overnight in order to get maximum enjoyment out of the next day's racing.

In order to appeal to a wide range of competitors the race has also included a solo (supported) race in the past. Although there is no solo category in 2008 there is for the fourth time a four person team category, which excludes kayaking, and a pairs category.