Balmoral Challenge

The Balmoral Challenge 2018, presented by Artemis, is a unique event for your team of four to meet, be inspired by and walk with our wounded beneficiaries from across Scotland over one of three beautifully challenging routes, starting and finishing in front of Her Majesty the Queen's Scottish residence.

The event raises money for Walking With The Wounded to expand its programmes in Scotland and enable more vulnerable veterans with physical, mental or social injuries, such as homelessness, to access better mental health care and be supported back into employment. Every team that takes part supports an ex serviceman or woman to reintegrate back into society and regain their independence. Your team can make a real difference by getting involved. There is a route for all abilities and you’ll be amazed what you can achieve together on the day, and in advance with your fundraising.

• DATE: 22-23 June 2018 (registration from 5pm Fri, inc. dinner, briefing and talk).
• ROUTES: (All orienteering from a map with checkpoints on it. You can change route choice and team members until 1 June):
• Triple Crown – The big one. A 30km race back to Balmoral over three Munros from a secret drop-off
• Prince’s Stone – The thinking one. Min 20km - Max 40km. How many points can your team collect within 9 hrs? Test your team’s strategy while exploring the wilder parts of the Balmoral Estate – will you gamble or make it back in good time after finding the historic Prince's Stone.
• The Cairn Chaser – The wee one. A 15km foray exploring the cairns in the forests above the castle.
• COST (the event is for teams of four):
• £200 per team (£50pp) new year offer until 28 February
• £220 per team (£55pp) standard entry from 1 March onward
• MILITARY DISCOUNT: 50% off for serving military teams if they bring a volunteer (military or civvy). Email andy@wwtw.org.uk
• FUNDRAISING: Each team is challenged to work together and raise £2,000 to directly support a veteran back into independence.
• LOCATION: Balmoral Castle, Balmoral Estate, Ballater, Aberdeenshire AB35 5TB
• ACCOMMODATION: Unique opportunity to camp near the castle and explore the grounds. Book when registering your team or click here.
• HOW TO ENTER: CLICK HERE
• FAQs:  KIt List here, see below or click here    for full FAQs

“It was so calm, and so solitary, as one gazed around; the pure mountain air was most refreshing. All seemed to breathe freedom and peace, and to make one forget the world and its sad turmoils.” Queen Victoria, Balmoral, Sept 8, 1848

“This experience has impacted very positively on our veterans who took part. It has reminded them about the skills they used in the military such as teamwork, planning and communication. The guys also enjoyed the social aspect. Having the chance to share stories with other veterans, and meet people who work for organisations that support WWTW's goals, gave them hope and encouragement. They seem happier and even more determined to take the next step towards independence and to gain sustainable employment or engage in education.” William Cairns, WWTW Employment Advisor, Glasgow & Dundee

Photo credits: David Brown and John Thow

“What an experience, the beautiful Balmoral Estate is a sight to behold and to drive through the gates is quite special. I have never walked so far in my life and am very proud of myself and my team for what we achieved that day.... wish we could do it again next week! To have met some of the beneficiaries of the charity was an honour. I’m so glad I was part of this event.” Maria Norman, Stirling Council

"Our wounded deserve the right support for life changing, but (often) hidden, issues. That's why I supported WWTW and the Balmoral Challenge. In the event I experienced 8 hours of extreme personal challenge; our wounded experience years - and sometimes a lifetime. Supporting them in this way was an easy choice to make.” Andrew, Fujitsu

“The Triple Crown was a great event for team building and the fundraising really got everyone working together before we even got there. Would highly recommend this as a corporate team building activity.” Anonymous participant 2017