PAIN 133

Origin
Pain is an annual ultramarathon around Edinburgh which raises awareness and funds for the mental health crisis within one of society’s most vulnerable demographic, 16 – 18 year olds.
After losing his best friend to suicide during his late teens, Smls founder Danny Allan, spent years searching for a way to leave a legacy for his friend, Charlie.
This legacy is PAIN – an ultramarathon which takes on three loops covering the entirety of Edinburgh. The first two loops total 100km, while the final loop increases by 1km each year, to reflect the age which Charlie would have been.

The last 33km are dedicated to Charlie but the first 100km are for everyone else struggling with their mental battle.

Loop 3, Charlie’s loop is a run where the community are encouraged to join in, a run which has been tackled in Edinburgh, Melbourne, and Capetown on the same day over the last two years.
Since its inception in 2023, PAIN has raised over £12,000. For the second year the funds raised will go to Smls' new pathway which provides free therapy sessions for 16 – 18 year olds within Edinburgh who are currently stuck on waiting lists.
PAIN 131, PAIN 132, and now PAIN 133.

PAIN 133

14.09.2025. We’re back.
Similar to last year, PAIN 133 will be a team relay. However, this year the event is open to all and there’s no need to be part of a run club to enter.
Each team needs to have three runners – one per loop – who are keen to compete in, and take on, a unique challenge while raising funds for a great cause.

Team entry is £150 per group of three which goes directly towards free mental health therapy for 16 - 18 year olds.

The day will start and end at Newbarns Taproom – where the community will come together for an afterparty to celebrate the day and enjoy some local food and drink, more to follow.
Entries will be capped to ensure we can create a smooth and enjoyable experience for athletes.

The Loops
Right, time for some details. Here’s the structure of the day:
Loop 1 [52 KM]: Our first runners kick-off at 07:15 as one group – with runners expected to stick together at a group pace of ~ 5:40min/km. At 32km, runners will hit their aid station. At this stage, if people fancy a bit of light hearted competition, then athletes are welcomed to run whatever pace they like back to the meet point.
Loop 2 [48 KM]: Our second runners start at 07:30. As above, the group will stick together at a pace of 5:40min/km before they reach their aid station at 30km. Thereafter, athletes can pick up (or slow down!) the pace as they wish.
Charlies Loop [33km]: Charlie’s loop can be started by the third team runner as soon as both runners 1 and 2 are back to the start. There’s no pace restriction on Charlie’s Loop.

PAIN 133 is not a race. That said, we won’t deprive those who want it a bit of light hearted competition.

Host or Publisher Smalls