Edinburgh boy Alasdair MacDonald, 10, achieved his ambition of climbing 100 Munros before his 11th birthday for the National Deaf Children’s Society.
He scaled the final two, the twin peaks of Mayar and Driesh in the Cairngorms, on Saturday 23 September, accompanied by around 20 friends and family, meaning he’s climbed 50 Munros this year alone.
He set himself the challenge out of love for his little sister Heather, 8, who was born deaf, and to raise funds for the charity, who supported Heather and the family.
Ally’s family marked the occasion with a celebration on the summit of Driesh, followed by a party at their home to say thank you for all the support they’d received.
He’s smashed his target of £500, with £1,530 raised so far for the National Deaf Children’s Society, which supports the UK’s 50,000 deaf children.
Ally lives with Heather and their parents Sara and Ranald in Edinburgh.
Ally said: “It was an amazing feeling to complete the challenge and to get to the top of my 100th Munro. We had a lovely day on Saturday and I was very happy that so many of my friends could join me on the final walk.
“I never thought we’d raise as much money as we have for the National Deaf Children’s Society and I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who came and supported me.”
Sara, Ally’s mum, added: “We were so proud when Alasdair completed his 100th Munro on Saturday at Glen Clova with 20 of his friends and family. We were really lucky and the sun was shining as we set off.
“All the kids and adults were fantastic supporters throughout the day and it was a really emotional end to the challenge.
“When we got back home we treated everyone to pizza and drinks, to say thanks for the overwhelming support they gave Ally.”
Melissa Jones, who supports fundraisers for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “I want to say a huge thank you to Ally for taking on this brilliant challenge for us. 100 Munros, with the final 50 this year alone, and all before your 11th birthday, is a truly towering achievement. We’re so proud of you.
“The National Deaf Children’s Society is dedicated to supporting the UK’s 50,000 deaf children and their families. The efforts of fantastic fundraisers like Ally will help us to keep on doing our vital work, now and into the future.”
There are over 3,300 deaf children in Scotland, with around 200 in Edinburgh.
Those wishing to make a donation can still do so by visiting:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/alasdair-macdonald-1681671245179