Agricultural charity seeking participants for Great Glen virtual fundraiser
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A charity supporting people in Scottish agriculture is encouraging participants to sign up for a virtual Great Glen Challenge taking place next month.
The RSABI fundraising challenge was launched in 2012 and over the years it has generated more than £300,000, helping the organisation provide much-needed emotional, practical and financial aid.
Last year’s event was cancelled and, with continuing uncertainty over the pandemic, RSABI has decided not to hold the in-person Great Glen Challenge again this year. Instead it has arranged its first-ever virtual challenge that can be completed anywhere.
Everyone in the agricultural community and beyond is being asked to sign up and choose their own challenge – walking, cycling, running or kayaking a distance of their choice on Friday, August 27, to raise funds for RSABI. Wheelchair users will also be able to log activity.
People can register as individuals or they can choose to create or join a team of up to five people and fundraise together. Everyone who raises over £75 will receive a limited-edition virtual Great Glen Challenge polo shirt.
RSABI chief executive Nina Clancy said: “Traditionally the Great Glen Challenge sees teams walk, run, cycle or kayak a distance that’s not for the faint-hearted. This year we’re encouraging as many people as possible to get involved – whether you’re a short-distance walker or an endurance cyclist.
"Exercise is a great way to boost your physical and mental wellbeing, so why not challenge yourself on the day and raise a few pounds in the process?
“Your business could sign up some teams and enjoy a bit of competition to see who can raise the most funds or perhaps have the best fancy dress. You could set aside an hour at lunchtime for a walk, or get the family involved with an after-school cycle.
"Whatever challenge you choose to take on, we hope you have fun.”
RSABI chairman David Leggat said: “We’d love to see everyone in the agricultural community do their bit and sign up for our virtual Great Glen Challenge. This is our first virtual event and we’re excited to see all the different challenges people choose to take on.”
There will be prizes for the most funds raised as a team and as an individual, and best fancy dress, as well as other spot prizes for distance or unusual challenges.
Participants will be encouraged to share photos from their virtual Great Glen Challenge on social media using #GGC21.
Harry Seran, RSABI’s finance manager, said: “We hope the virtual nature of the event, and the fact that you can choose your own challenge encourages many people to take part, including those that have never considered entering our traditional Great Glen Challenge.
“Although this year’s event might not be as competitive a challenge as in previous years, it will allow a wider audience to do their bit for their own health and wellbeing as well as recognising the fantastic work of our supporters.
"We do plan to hold our in-person Great Glen Challenge again in 2022 and in fact we’ve already had two teams reserve their places.”
RSABI helped more than 700 people and their families in the last financial year and saw demand for its helpline services increase by 63 per cent. Funds raised by the Great Glen Challenge will help RSABI provide emotional, practical and financial support to people in the Scottish agricultural industry.
Details on how to sign up to the virtual Great Glen Challenge can be found on the RSABI website.
The challenge is being sponsored by RSABI’s media partner, The Scottish Farmer.
RSABI was formerly known as the Royal Scottish Agricultural Benevolent Institution.
