Record-breaking Scottish adventurer and cyclist Mark Beaumont is getting ready for a major cross-Scotland challenge in aid of the STV Children’s Appeal, and is inviting cycling fanatics to come along for the ride on Saturday 22 September.
The coast-to-coast cycle will set off at Tayinloan in Argyll, continue through Loch Lomond National Park and the Caingorms, overGlenshee before heading for the finish line in Aberdeen – a gruelling total of 240 miles. This is the same distance Mark averaged daily during his epic cycle round the world in 80 days last year.
Together, the team of 80 intrepid cyclists will pedal the equivalent of Mark’s incredible feat – taking them ‘around the world in a day’.
Participants are asked to raise a minimum of £240 each for the STV Children’s Appeal, which supports children and young people affected by poverty in Scotland, with the hope of raising as much as £80,000 for the charity.
Mark said: “This stunning route from Argyll to Aberdeen was my last 16-hour training ride before I set out on the world challenge and it holds fond memories – but it is very long and very hilly, so I’ll be impressed by everyone who signs up for this epic day of endurance.
“The STV Children’s Appeal has gone from strength from strength, supporting so many brilliant charities and causes across Scotland. The last time I crossed Scotland for the Appeal I was swimming and running, so cycling has to be easier… right?!
“Thanks to everyone who gets involved and I look forward to riding with you.”
Mari Slavin of the STV Children’s Appeal said: “Mark is a fantastic ambassador for the Appeal and we are all in awe of the gigantic challenge he’s about to take on, together with cyclists from across the country. STV’s cameras will be there – and trying hard to keep up! – to capture the highs and lows of this incredible marathon venture.
“The Appeal is making a real difference to the lives of children and young people in all corners of Scotland. This year we want to make an even bigger impact and we are so grateful for Mark’s support.”
After a 4am start in Argyll, Mark’s 240-mile cycle route will pass through Tarbert, Lochgilphead, Inveraray, Tyndrum, Crainlarich, Killin, Aberfeldy, Pitlochry, Glenshee, Braemar, Ballater and Peterculter – among many other towns and villages – before finishing in Aberdeen. View the route here: https://www.strava.com/routes/13669194.
If you think you’re up for this epic feat of endurance, get in touch with Mark on
aroundtheworld@thehunterfoundation.co.uk
A corporate offer is also available with four-man relay teams invited to enter for a minimum donation of £5,000.
Can’t face the cycle but still want to be involved? Mark’s team is also looking for volunteer drivers and support crew. Email mark@markbeaumontonline.com for more details.
Since launching in 2011, the STV Children’s Appeal has raised £16.3 million, with 964 big and small grants awarded to projects across all 32 local authority areas in Scotland, providing much needed support to over 67,000 children. The money raised is distributed to provide practical help like food and warm clothes, create opportunities for training and employability, and enable social and emotional support for those who need it most.
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