Ross is cycling from China to Scotland
A Stonehouse teacher is set to embark on the challenge of a lifetime as he tries to cycle from China to Scotland.
Ross Mckechnie will attempt to cycle 10,000 miles through 21 countries in eight months, on his journey from Shanghai to Glasgow, in aid of ‘Achieve More Scotland’.
He says his motto as a physical education teacher was always ‘the impossible is just a mind-set’.
The trip is entirely self-funded but donations are being taken now on his website at rossontheroad.co.uk.
On it, Ross outlines his reasons for undertaking such a gruelling challenge.
Ross, 27, said: “When I first read about the Silk Road as a boy, I dreamt of one day getting to see it for myself.
“Having recently decided to move back home from China, the idea resurfaced, so I bought myself a Marin touring bike and set my date of departure for July 15, to head back to Scotland.
“Born and raised in Scotland, I grew up playing basketball, football and various other sports.
“At university I studied sports and made it my ambition to teach and travel. My journey has eventually taken me across more than 30 countries and to China, where I began my career, met my fiancé, and adopted our cheeky, wee dog.
“Having lived in Shanghai for five years I have had the opportunity to work with some amazing students.
“As director of sport I have pushed the boundaries of our school’s programme, from leading indoor skiing practices and trips to the mountains of northern China to taking the kids to Europe and learning to sail in the Mediterranean Sea.
“While these developments have been exciting, I couldn’t help realising that many students back home may never have the privilege of such adventures.
“This cycling journey is meant to challenge this notion. It has presented me with a chance to fundraise and partner with Achieve More Scotland, a Glasgowbased charity that aims to deliver free sports, residential trips, volunteer, and employment opportunities to young people in the community.”
Achieve More Scotland aims to keep young people away from gang violence, crime and anti-social behaviour through exercise programmes.
The aim is to raise £1 for every mile Ross travels, but fundraising opportunities are available, ranging from £1 to £1000, via the website by clicking on ‘get involved.’
Mum Elaine said: “Myself and his dad are amazingly proud of him and all of his achievements.
“Ross has always pushed the boundaries but this has to be his ultimate challenge.
“Obviously as a parent you worry – what parent doesn’t – but the fact that we can track him on his route and see his progress is reassuring. His family is 100 per cent behind him, and will be willing him on from the other side of the world.”