An Army veteran from who suffered life-changing injuries in Afghanistan before going on to win gold in the Paris Paralympics is championing one of Scotland’s toughest charity challenges.
Gregg Stevenson MBE was serving as a Royal Engineer Commando in Afghanistan in 2009, when he stepped on an IED, becoming a double amputee. Determined to move forward with his life despite the challenges of his rehabilitation, Gregg embarked on a remarkable journey to academic and sporting success, with the support of the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).
Now Gregg is calling on people around the UK to support the charity by taking on the ABF’s gruelling 24-hour hike in the foothills of the Cairngorms. The former soldier has been unveiled as the new ambassador for 2027 Cateran Yomp at a reception this week on 17th September in Edinburgh Castle to officially launch the ABF’s flagship event.
The 2027 Cateran Yomp will once again challenge civilians, veterans and serving soldiers to walk 22 (bronze), 36 (silver) or 54 miles (gold), non-stop for 24 hours from Blairgowrie, Perthshire.
Based on the infamous long-distance military training march, this annual event is taking place from 5th to 6th June 2027, the anniversary of D Day. Serving soldiers in teams of four that complete 54 miles in under 24 hours earn the prestigious Gold Distinction Award, and there is also a relay option.
It is expected to attract hundreds of participants from across Scotland and the rest of the UK and as far afield as Ukraine, Australia and the US, raising funds for the ABF, the Army’s national charity, and its lifetime support for soldiers, veterans and their families.
The event receives strong support from participants from Scotland including teams from Dundee, Falkirk, Edinburgh and Glasgow and serving soldiers from 2 SCOTS, as well as locally-based companies including Castle Water, a longstanding sponsor whose employees take part every year and which helps provide drinking water throughout the route, ensuring Yompers can stay hydrated.
Gregg Stevenson, the 2027 Cateran Yomp ambassador, joined the Army at age 19. In 2009, while on patrol in Afghanistan, Gregg detonated an IED and became a double amputee as a result.
He says: “When the explosion happened, I felt helpless, confused and had difficulties breathing– I couldn’t take care of myself. But hearing the familiar voices of people who had been through difficult times with me, saying – you’re going to be okay – helped bring me back to reality. I thought, I’m still here, I’m still alive, now what’s the next part? ”
During his lengthy rehabilitation, Gregg learned about the ABF’s financial support for the Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund and received the charity’s help to study for a BSc in Sports, Fitness and Coaching at the Open University. Alongside his studies, the father of two, 41, from Foulridge in East Lancashire, took up competitive rowing, progressing to international success and ultimately securing Gold in the Paris Paralympics 2024.
Gregg is currently working as the Armed Forces Covenant Project Manager for Lancashire and researching a PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University, focusing on reducing health inequalities and enhancing rehabilitation services.
He credits the ABF with helping him access education and opportunities that have transformed his life. Now Gregg is sharing his story to inspire others to test themselves and to develop their resilience by signing up for the ABF’s Cateran Yomp.
Gregg says: “I’m thrilled to be heading to Scotland in June as the 2027 Cateran Yomp ambassador and I’d urge as many people as possible to sign up for the event. It’s been a journey since my injury, but with the ABF’s support, I’ve been able to get the best out of myself and I couldn’t be more thankful.
“What I’ve learned from my time as a commando and in elite sport is that reaching the finish when you’re facing a serious challenge requires cheerfulness, a sense of adversity, and teamwork. The Yomp is a great opportunity to come together to raise money, to truly test your resilience and have some great stories to tell afterwards.”
Peter Monteith, Chief Operations Officer, Army Benevolent Fund says: “We are grateful to Gregg for sharing his journey from injury to recovery and excellence in sport, academia and employment.
“We hope that his example will inspire others to take up the challenge of the Cateran Yomp and look forward to welcoming even more participants to the event in June. Every step taken will support our mission – to be there for soldiers, veterans and families, for life.”
Since 2011, Yomp participants and sponsors have raised over £6m for the ABF and next year’s event is set to be the biggest yet, with more than 1,100 expected over the start line, including more than 350 serving personnel.
The ABF is here to support the Army community through life’s challenges – such as bereavement, getting back to work, elderly care, and much more besides. Last year, the ABF supported over 74,000 veterans, soldiers and their families in the UK and 51 countries around the world through its grants to individuals and other charities.
The Cateran Yomp 2027 was officially launched at a reception in Edinburgh Castle on 17th September 2026, with guests including Scottish business leaders, military personnel, veterans and other ABF supporters.
Early registration is now open Army Benevolent Fund: Cateran Yomp – Home
