Cycling legend Christina Mackenzie finishes NC500 cycle at Inverness Castle in under 37 hours raising £2.5k for Cruse Scotland

Christina Mackenzie has achieved a new Road Record Association (RRA) record as the fastest woman to cycle North Coast 500.

She narrowly missed out on achieving the Guinness World Record after completing the 516-mile route in an incredible 36 hours 39 minutes and seven seconds.

Christina, who is originally from Stornoway and now lives in Stirlingshire, set off at 5am on Friday morning.

Moments after crossing the finish line, Christina said: “I’m delighted to have completed it after months of training, dedication and commitment. It’s a reality now. It has been put to bed and won’t be repeated but I am so happy that I have been able to raise £2500 for Cruse Scotland as they helped me with my grief during my last challenge.”

Fans followed her progress live online and many supporters took to the route to cheer Christina on and keep her motivated. Cycling legends Mark Beaumont and Markus Stitz sent a video message of support, and a heads up on a trickier part of the route too.

Christina has also used this challenge as an opportunity to offer hope to many bereaved children, young people and adults in Scotland by nominating Cruse Scotland as her charity partner.

Nicola Reed, an area manager at Cruse Scotland who leads the teams of volunteer counsellors in the north and east regions of Scotland, said: “Following Christina on this challenge has had me on the edge of my seat! She is a remarkable human and this adventure demonstrates that in so many ways.

“One in five people need additional support to cope with their grief following the death of a loved one and thanks to Christina’s efforts, she is helping to raise awareness of Cruse Scotland’s free listening and counselling services available to them. Thanks to her fundraising efforts she is also helping to ensure we can continue to be there for those that need us; online, over the phone or in one-to-one sessions.”

Christina’s fundraising total had reached £2400. Donate at www.justgiving.com/christinamackenzienc500

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