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Callum Laird, a 25-year-old from Ayrshire, considers himself fortunate to have survived a dramatic fall of over 1,500 feet from Goat Fell mountain on the Isle of Arran. During his training for an ultramarathon, the experienced runner slipped on icy terrain and tumbled down the slopes, managing to slow his descent somewhat by clutching onto rocks. Ultimately, he landed on a grassy marsh, though not without injury.
Following the fall, Callum only became fully aware of his condition after encountering a woman and her daughter along a hiking trail. He had left a trail of blood behind him. The pair helped him, with the woman’s husband being a doctor involved in mountain rescue. Despite suffering burns, a chipped ankle, and an injured shin, Callum was able to leave the site of the accident and began making his way toward the Glen Rosa ferry terminal. His goal was to reach the mainland and visit his partner Nicole, who is a hospital worker in Kilmarnock.
Reflecting on the incident, Callum explained how he fell while attempting to turn back due to icy conditions on Goat Fell, a climb he was using to simulate the challenges he expects in the upcoming Trans Gran Canaria ultramarathon. He described how he dangled from a rock, unable to find a phone to call for help, and made a decision to aim for the softest possible landing below. Once on the ground, he carefully assessed his injuries, then started navigating through difficult terrain, including rivers and marshes, before reaching a trail where he ran several miles until help arrived.
Despite his injuries and the risk of hypothermia, Callum was initially determined to continue on to catch the ferry home. However, the woman he met insisted he seek hospital treatment. After being taken to Arran War Memorial Hospital and then airlifted to Crosshouse, his injuries were treated, and he was discharged the same night. Now, his burns are healing, and he plans to evaluate his recovery before deciding if he can participate in the ultramarathon. Callum emphasizes the importance of climbing with company, sharing plans, and carrying appropriate equipment like ice axes, which he believes could have prevented his fall. “I can’t believe I’m still alive, to be honest,” he said
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