A lovingly restored classic Massey Ferguson 1960s 35x set off from the Black Isle on Tuesday ahead of a massive “Road Rage Cowboy” tractor run. The run includes a 5,500-mile coastal journey around Britain in support of five outstanding charities.
RSABI Highlands and Islands Case Officer, Shirley Hastings, was delighted to be at the sendoff from Highland Tractors by Conon Bridge as the compact yet mighty tractor began its figure-of-eight route, closely following the coastline of mainland Britain.
The plan to take on the trip was sparked when close friends Marius Anderson was visiting his friend Martin Gill. Martin had always been a lover of tractors, and Marius had spotted the 35x in his collection craving some TLC. Marius, a skilled mechanic worked for a local Massey Ferguson dealership, albeit a long time ago.
“At the time, the Massey Ferguson 35x was in need of some attention, and Marius, ever the expert, saw an opportunity. He offered to fully renovate the tractor, if I covered the cost of parts, he would put in the hours. His only request was that we use the tractor for a charity run. One thing led to another, and suddenly we had a route mapped around the coast of Britain.” said Martin.
The two friends embarked on the ambitious restoration project, painstakingly stripping the tractor down to its bare bones. Over the course of 18 months, with countless hours of work, they brought the machine back to life.
“It was hard work, but as the months passed, we could see the machine taking shape. Finally, about 18 months and much dedication, the restoration was complete. The 35x had been road-tested and was running smoothly, ready for the challenge ahead.” added Martin.
Marius envisioned a journey that would trace the entirety of the British coastline, a route that, depending on how faithfully they stick to the shore, could reach 5,500 miles. It’s a huge undertaking, both logistically and financially, but the pair are determined. They’ve already raised an incredible £14,000, which will be shared between five charities, and have secured generous fuel donations along the way to help reduce costs and maximise funds for the causes.
The charity run is about giving back to causes which have deep personal meaning for both Martin and Marius. After numerous discussions, they settled on five charities to support and as well as RSABI, they are supporting RABI, Cancer Research UK, My Name’5 Dodie Foundation, and SANE.
“These organisations have been significant in our lives—each one linked to a personal story, a family member, or a friend who had been touched by illness or hardship,” added Marius.
To donate to the Road Rage Cowboy challenge, visit: https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/8884/road-rage-cowboy/