With excitement mounting for today’s Great Glen Challenge on August 30, Scottish agricultural charity RSABI is thrilled to announce that more than 90% of its £50,000 fundraising target has already been achieved, with a remarkable £45,300 raised so far.

The Great Glen Challenge, generously sponsored by Scottish legal firm Gillespie Macandrew, has seen unprecedented interest this year. RSABI extends heartfelt thanks to all participants and supporters who are contributing to the event and the charity’s mission.

Pauline Macmillan, head of fundraising at RSABI, expressed her gratitude: “We are immensely thankful to everyone who has contributed so far, and to our sponsors, Gillespie Macandrew.

“The dedication of our participants in both their fundraising and training efforts is truly inspiring, and our thanks also go to the many volunteers who assist us with the running of the event.

“Our goal for the 2024 challenge is to surpass £50,000 which would take the total amount raised since the event was launched to over £500,000. This level of fundraising is incredibly important to support RSABI’s work to provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in Scottish agriculture.”

This year, 27 teams will take on the 90km race through the breathtaking Scottish landscape, combining cycling, kayaking, and hiking from Fort Augustus to Fort William.

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Participants come from various sectors within Scottish agriculture, all united by their commitment to supporting RSABI’s work while embarking on an adventurous journey. This year’s competitors include Women in Agriculture Scotland, Virgin Money, Thomson Cooper, SP Energy Networks, Scottish Woodlands Ltd, SAC Consulting, Rural Payments and Inspections Division (RPID), Royal Bank of Scotland, Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), NFU Scotland, Muckle Media, Gillespie Macandrew, MHA Edinburgh, Johnston Carmichael, Crofting Commission, Blackhall & Powis, Bidwells, Begbies Traynor, Bank of Scotland, Azets, and Agrovista. Lois Newton, partner of land and rural business at Gillespie Macandrew and RSABI trustee, commented: “The overwhelming interest in this year’s event is a testament to how special and unique this event truly is, which is instrumental in raising important funds as well as awareness of RSABI and the excellent work that they do. We wish all participants the best of luck and look forward to a successful and inspiring day.”

The Scottish Farmer has once again partnered as the media sponsor, with letting agents Rettie & Co providing support for this year’s route and map creation.

Supporters can continue to donate to the teams’ fundraising efforts by visiting the official event page at https://rsabi.enthuse.com/cf/great-glen-challenge-2024 or by texting GREATGLEN to 70450 to donate £10.