Charity runners complete Race to Dufftown challenge

Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador Mark Thomson and his Race to Dufftown team have raised funds well over the original target Just Giving; a total of £3135 for Protect Our Winters, with every donation matched by William Grant & Sons and Le Deli Robuchon London.

The runners followed a poignant trail through Scotland which was inspired by a journey taken by William Grant in 1885, as he searched for inspiration and opportunity before building Glenfiddich, in an expedition that took him from Dufftown to Balmoral.

Hoping the run inspires others to join next year, Mark documented the journey on his Instagram @singlemaltmark.

Interested individuals can follow @williamgrantuk for updates.

Setting out on 31 July, Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador to Scotland, Mark Thomson, led a group of 11 hospitality industry names on a 90k+ journey through Scotland. The poignant trail is inspired by a journey taken by William Grant in 1885, as he searched Scotland for inspiration and opportunity before building Glenfiddich, in an expedition that took him from Dufftown to Balmoral. 

In a bid to recreate William Grant’s epic journey, Thomson and his group of runners ran across some of Scotland’s most remote land over the course of two days. Beginning in Braemar, crossing two Munros, and finishing with a luxurious stay at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, the journey brought o life Glenfiddich’s inspiring brand heritage.

As part of the challenge Mark Thomson partnered with Protect Our Winters, an environmental charity dedicated to helping passionate outdoor people become effective climate advocates, protecting our world today and for future generations.  

Donations can still be made via Mark’s Just Giving page to support the runners and this worthwhile cause. A target of £2.5k was set by the brand and for every donation made William Grant & Sons will match it. 

Glenfiddich & hospitality industry partners raise money for ‘Protect Our Winters’ charity

On the 31st July, Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador to Scotland, Mark Thomson, will lead a group of 11 hospitality industry names on a 90k+ journey through Scotland.

The poignant trail is inspired by a journey taken by William Grant in 1885, as he searched Scotland for inspiration and opportunity before building Glenfiddich, in an expedition that took him from Dufftown to Balmoral. 

In a bid to recreate William Grant’s epic journey, Thomson and his group of runners will run across some of Scotland’s most remote land over the course of two days.

Beginning in Braemar, crossing two Munros, and finishing with a luxurious stay at the Glenfiddich distillery in Dufftown, the journey hopes to bring to life Glenfiddich’s inspiring brand heritage.

As part of the challenge Thomson has partnered with Protect Our Winters, an environmental charity dedicated to helping passionate outdoor people become effective climate advocates, protecting our world today and for future generations.  

Once runners have crossed the finish line at the Glenfiddich distillery, they will be greeted with a well-deserved dram before being taken on a guided tour of the historic distillery which includes a coopering demonstration.

They will stay at distillery properties Malt Kiln, Torrin and Castle Croft, enjoy a sumptuous dinner and stunning line up of whiskies including private vintages, rare and exclusive to the brand’s home, and be joined by Lauren MacCallum, MD of Protect Our Winters UK to discuss the project and fundraising. 

Glenfiddich Brand Ambassador to Scotland Mark Thomson says: “This adventure will create a lasting impression on the entrants, bringing together all the values Glenfiddich and Protect Our Winters share, as well as promoting health and wellbeing within the industry.

“The love of the outdoors, challenge of the landscape and the luxury destination of the distillery creates a memorable occasion for all”.

Donations can be made via Mark’s Just Giving page to support the runners and this worthwhile cause. A target of £2.5k has been set by the brand and for every donation made William Grant & Sons will match it. 

Those interested can follow Thomson and the athletes on their challenge via his Instagram page @singlemaltmark where he will be documenting the full journey.