Tea break: Nigel Bruce

In our fortnightly feature, we join a local for a tea break and find out how they spend their time - and their time off. This week, we welcome Nigel Bruce, Race Director for the Harris Running Festival

Please introduce yourself...

I first came to Harris in April 1996, as Project Manager for the Scalpay Fixed Link, and first ran the Harris Half Marathon in 1997.

After the project was complete, I returned to mainland Scotland to continue in construction but maintained my contact with Harris. Post COVID, in 2020, I relocated to Harris and now reside in Drinishader.

What’s your story so far?

My sporting background was Rugby, keeping fit and latterly Triathlons.

In 2024, I volunteered as Race Director for the Harris Half Marathon. Most events suffered as a result of COVID with events being cancelled, training being disrupted and general cost of living etc.

Harris Half Marathon was no exception. My initial task was to re-establish the event on the running calendar.

How is planning going for this year’s festival?

Entries opened in November and circa 60 runners have signed up so far. The maximum entries is 180, based on number of coaches available to take the runners to the start at Borve Lodge.

We are fortunate to have access to the excellent facilities at Sir E Scott school, including the canteen, which will again be operated by Crossroads (Harris), and any monies raised will be allocated to this most worthy and local cause.

What’s special about the Harris Festival?

Last year we introduced additional events, namely a 5KM run and Fun Run. These were introduced to be more inclusive and open the event up to more participants. Entries for the Half Marathon were up 20% from previous year, 20+ participants took part in the 5km run and over 30 Children undertook the Fun Run.

These events cannot not take place without a team of volunteers, including marshals and those at water stations and finish lines.

Also, a big shout out to our local businesses who continue to generously support the event with prizes, equipment and facilities.

The additional events are also included for the Festival, Saturday 4th July 2026.

Which Harris community projects are you most proud of?

I have been fortunate enough to be involved with the refurbishment of the Leverhulme Community Hub. It is most pleasing to see the building being brought back into community ownership and providing a multi-purpose building for community and visitor use alike.

What’s your favourite Harris place?

Horgabost is my favourite beach.

And how do you spend your free time?

Dog walking. My family, including two grandchildren, are on the mainland, so regular trips off island to see them are extremely important.

Tea break time: what are your drink and snack of choice?

I have a sweet tooth, so a coffee and Hobnob (other wheat biscuits are available), would be my snack of choice.

Further information can be found at www.harrishalfmarathon.com