RSABI Great Glen Challenge 2019 has raised an amazing £50,710 to support people in Scottish agriculture.
The held at the end of August surpassed its target for the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RSABI) for yet another year.
So far, the popular event has raised over £350,000 with support from over 500 rural competitors since it was established in 2012.
This year’s Great Glen Challenge event saw 104 competitors complete the multi-sport 46km course from Fort Augustus to Benavie, by Fort William.
The teams – each made up of four people (plus a support driver) – mountain biked, kayaked, walked and ran their way down the Great Glen against the clock and in the wettest conditions the competition has ever seen.
The team from AHDB Scotland was crowned the winner, with Landmark Systems Ltd. taking a very close second and last year’s winner Begbies Traynor coming in third.
The money raised will help RSABI provide emotional, practical and financial support to individuals and their families across the agricultural sector including farming and crofting.
RSABI’s Nina Clancy who coordinated the event said: “The generosity and spirit of all the participants and volunteers never ceases to amaze me. The RSABI team thank all who took part in the Great Glen Challenge 2019, our headline sponsors, Ledingham Chalmers solicitors, our partner organisations, volunteer stewards and the myriad of people who donated so generously to our teams this year.
“Many people in Scottish agriculture are struggling to cope. Working farmers, crofters and farm workers need a variety of support services and our service is becoming increasingly complex and time-consuming.
Our Helpline and Welfare teams are busier than ever with new referrals received at the rate of 20 to 25 per month. These funds will make a real difference to people’s lives.
Ledingham Chalmers solicitors partner Jim Drysdale said: “The role of RSABI has arguably never been more important as the industry works together to create a sustainable future in the face of continuing uncertainty, as well as challenging market and weather conditions.
“That’s why Ledingham Chalmers once again was keen to support this special event, which raises essential funds to help so many people throughout rural Scotland”.
