Businesses urged to sign up to Highland adventure
BUSINESSES are being encouraged to sign up to one of the toughest events in the fundraising calendar to help foster team spir it and corporate morale.
The Caledonian Challenge sees groups hike the West Highland Way to raise money for Foundation Scotland, either on a 24-mile course taking 12 hours or a gruelling 54-mile walk over 24 hours.
More than 150 teams have signed up for the event on June 13/14, while last year, more than half of all participants took part with work colleagues.
Since 1996, more than 17,000 people have taken part helping to raise more than £13m for the Foundation, Scotland’s busiest grantmaker, which makes more awards to good causes than any other independent funder.
The 54-mile challenge kicks off at Gairlochy on the Great Glen Way and ends at Str at hfi l lan Wigwams, near Tyndrum. Both events take in views of Ben Nevis, Glencoe and Buachaille Etive Mor along the way.
Among those who made the hike last year was Karen Harvey, 33, a Regional Risk Operations and Service Manager at Santander Corporate and Commercial Banking.
Ms Harvey, who aims to complete the 24-mile hike this year, said: “One of the best things about tackling a Caledonian Challenge is the training. Making time to get together to do something fun outside of work is a great release – we’ve built great friendships and shared some great laughs.
“Our training walks have taken us to some stunning parts of the country; the Conic Hill, Ben Lomond and Ben Nevis, and to be honest they’ve really tested our resolve at times, which I suppose is what this is all about.”
The teams are supported by crewmates who feed and water them at checkpoints.
Ms Harvey added: “I can’t describe that feeling and sense of achievement you experience as you cross the finish line together as a team. We were so proud of each other.”
Each individual is required to raise a minimum of £400 on THE 54 and £300 on THE 24 for Foundation Scotland.
Events manager Fraser Lennox said: “Year after year, we’re delighted to see teams like Karen’s come back and take part.”
Visit www.caledonian challenge.com to sign up for the event.