Balmoral Challenge 2018 won by 4 Scots

Well over 100 fundraisers took to the Scottish hills for our second Balmoral Challenge which has raised more than £50,000 to support vulnerable veterans. 

The bragging rights were retained by the military but won this year by a team from 4th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland. Corporal Gavin Young, 23, from Glenrothes, Highlander Callum Crowe, 20, from Lochaber, Highlander Graeme Tiffen, 19, from Paisley and Mosman Moran, 27, from Coventry led from start to finish at the event in the Cairngorms, holding off competition from last year’s winners 2 Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

The event, back at Balmoral with special permission from HM The Queen for a second year, raises funds for Walking With The Wounded’s programmes supporting veterans who have struggled since leaving the military, those who have found themselves homeless, those in need of mental health therapy and those who have found themselves on a downward spiral.  

The teams took on one of three challenging routes on the Munros above the castle alongside beneficiary teams from the charity. Event sponsors Artemis Investments were the first civilian team home on the ‘Triple Crown’ route over Lochnagar, MetLife won the highest fundraiser title, Barclays fielded the fastest female team and there were also awards for Aggreko and a beneficiary team from Glasgow and Edinburgh for winning the ‘Cairn Chaser’ and Prince’s Stone’ routes. 

Corporal Young said: “It was challenging throughout but the scenery was unbelievable; we wanted to stop and take more photos!” Lance corporal Moran added: “It was a really good event, challenging and good to support the cause. Our regiment is good at supporting events like this.”

William Cairns, Walking With The Wounded’s employment adviser based out of Glasgow and Dundee, took part with a team of veterans. He said: “I work with a lot of guys who have complex issues and needs. One gentleman was sleeping rough through a Scottish winter in Fife but thanks to the support we’re able to provide, he is now doing an apprenticeship as a jockey. These guys can, and want to, get back into work and independence.” 

Walking With The Wounded Events Manager, Andy Sloan said: “The challenge is a great way for firms to show their support for the Armed Forces Covenant and we’re always amazed by the enthusiasm and camaraderie from everyone who takes part. They all did extraordinarily well on the day but most importantly with their fundraising for the cause which will transform the lives of many more vulnerable veterans, and in turn impact their families too for the better.” 

PODIUM RESULTS

Triple Crown:

1. 1 BN 4 Scots

2. 2 CS BN REME

3. Artemis – Team BS

Fastest female team:  The Barclays Crew

Prince’s Stone:

1. Bellrock the Brave

2. Yodel Saltires

3. Tom, Dick & Harry

Cairn Chasers:

1. Aggreko

2. Salty Dogs

3. Stanners Team Canada

Fancy Dress Prize: The Barclays Crew (Unicorns)

Highest Fundraisers: MetLife

Thank you to everyone who took part, everyone who volunteered, everyone who donated and especially to our event sponsors Artemis for making it happen. 

2020 vision

The next event will be 2020, marking the 10th anniversary of the charity.

To reserve a team, volunteer or express interest in our 2019 Cumbrian Challenge in the Lake District, please call or email Andy Sloan via andy@wwtw.org.uk or 01263 863 902.