Moray fundraisers for the RAF Benevolent Fund have always been that that bit more creative in their efforts – but this summer they may well be surpassing themselves.
What started as a straight-forward 23-mile sponsored walk has grown imaginatively into a 66-mile bicycle and hiking trek that will see participants make their way from Cairngorm to Coast between May 23 and 24.
The mammoth challenge will start at the Cairngorm Ski Centre car park before taking to the pathway descent into Coire na Ciste. From there they are to follow a well established path to Glenmore Lodge, onwards to Nethy Bridge and pick up the Speyside Way to Ballindalloch Castle.
A second stage starts at the Castle, where competitors will have a chance to change clothes and get some food before getting on their mountain bikes and cycling the final 33 miles to RAF Lossiemouth along they Speyside Way, tracks and minor roads.
RAFBF Lossiemouth’s Karen Cox said: “Due to its nature, this is an over 18’s only team challenge, with a minimum of two people in each team for safety reasons.
“Our aim is to raise £5,000 for the RAFBF, who are the RAF’s leading welfare charity and receive no government funding. They need to raise at least £21m per year to continue their support of our RAF personnel, their families and veterans.”
It is hoped the event will be the first of an annual series – but those wishing to take part are being that there is very limited spaces, so those interested in taking part are being urged to complete an online registration of interest form.
Karen said: “Once we receive that form, we will send you a full registration form, medical questionnaire, sponsorship information and payment details.
“Full event information packs will be sent out at the beginning of May, along with your race number.
“Entry is £35 per person and we would ask for a minimum of £150 sponsorship for the RAF Benevolent Fund per person.”
Participants will receive a ‘goody bag’ at the end of the event which will contain a competitor’s t-shirt, kindly supplied by one of our sponsors Dallas Designs Ltd. The challenge is being supported by Outfit Moray.
Anyone with questions about the event is asked to email teamrafbflossiemouth@gmail.com, telephone Karen on 01343 813999 or use the contact form at the bottom of this blog.