Hopeman offshore worker wins Highland Cross at first attempt as he conquers running and cycling event from Kintail to Beauly
SAM Milton claimed victory at the 2025 Highland Cross at his first attempt of the 50-mile duathlon from Kintail to Beauly.
The Hopeman offshore worker took the crown in his debut in the event which saw him run 20 miles and cycle 30 miles crossing the line in a time of three hours 35 minutes and 57 seconds.
The 37-year-old was over three minutes ahead of his nearest challenger as Kyle Greig from Alford took second place in 3:39:08.
2019 Highland Cross champion Peter Fenwick claimed third place in a time of 3:39:42.
Speaking after his victory, Milton says he was delighted to take top honours in tough hot conditions in what was an unknown course for him.
“I didn’t really know what to expect to be honest,” said Milton.

“I have been building back up at the moment and have been doing a lot on the bike. I hoped to pace the run as conservatively as I could and leave some legs for the bike which I was able to do.
“I pushed a bit harder on the run than I intended to and on the bike I was in survival mode from the first pedal stroke.
“Six of us went out on the initial run and then it splintered after the climb. It was myself and Kyle Greig who ran together towards transition. On the bike I pushed hard and managed to keep off at the front.
“I had to keep on top of the hydration and nutrition early on and filling up when I could. Credit to the volunteers at the stations today because it was really warm.”
Milton hadn’t signed up for the event until 10 days ago when he was encouraged to take part by one of his friends.
He has experience of taking part in duathlons and triathlons in the past, but predominantly takes part in running events.
He says that the Highland Cross had always been an event that he wanted to take part in and was delighted to mark his debut with victory.
He said: “I got a message from one of my friends to answer an SOS that a team member had left.
“It is an event which has always been on my radar as the multi sports side of it appeals to me. It was a sufferfest and my calves were cramping from the get go. But I saw it over the line.”
Milton says he already has 2026 in his head and is keen to defend his title and be in even better shape going into next year.
He said:“I would love to come back next year and be even fitter for the run and have better legs for the bike. It is a great event and credit to everyone involved.”
In the women’s race, Sarah Hodgson from Inverness claimed victory for the first time in her career when she crossed the finish line in 4:05:26.
Catriona Fraser from Alness was in second place finishing in a time of 4:11:00 with Sally Wallis from Deeside third in 4:21:33.