Trio of Challenge Events for 2025 Launched by RSABI

Trio of Challenge Events for 2025 Launched by RSABI

Gratis editorial photo

A mass gathering of heavy horses assembled at the home of Scotland’s iconic Kelpies structures today (Tuesday, March 26) in celebration of the forthcoming 10th anniversary of the magnificent artworks. 

Kelpies are creatures that disguise as horses and lure people into water in Scottish mythology.  These monumental sculptures stand at the Eastern entrance of The Forth & Clyde Canal.

The Kelpies creator, internationally renowned artist and sculptor Andy Scott(centre of Photo) joined in the celebration held at The Helix Park, Falkirk, to pay tribute to the Clydesdale Horse, the breed that inspired him to create the colossal Kelpies. 
 
The Clydesdale Horse played a crucial role in Scottish industry and economy- pulling wagons, barges, ploughs and coalships that shaped the geographical layout of Scotland. 
Andy, originally from Glasgow, Scotland, but now lives and works in Los Angeles, California, has flown back to his homeland for the occasion to celebrate a decade of the `Kelpies’ effect’. 

Photo: Peter Sandground.
 

Three exciting new challenge events for 2025 are being unveiled this month by RSABI, the charity which supports people in Scottish agriculture.

The events offer a variety of ways for individuals and teams to support RSABI, raising both funds and awareness of the charity’s vital work, as well as offering an opportunity to bring people together and have fun.

The first of the events will be RSABI’s Kelpies Challenge taking place on 17 May 2025. An adrenaline-packed adventure awaits participants in this unique challenge, a new way to experience the famous landmark near Falkirk.

Climbers will tackle an intricate maze of ladders, nets, and cable crossings, with the option to descend either via an exhilarating abseil or the ultimate Quick Flight – a breath-taking free-fall experience. The registration fee is £30, and participants are encouraged to raise sponsorships for the exhilarating climb.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, RSABI will be taking part in the Walk the Loch at Loch Leven on 18 May 2025 which offers a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of Loch Leven. Participants can choose from three walking distances (7km, 12km or 21km), each set against a picturesque backdrop. This event provides a perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family while supporting a worthy cause. The registration fee is £10 and those attending are encouraged to rally support from friends and family in their fundraising efforts.

The trio of fundraising events are set to build on the success of the Great Glen Challenge which raised around £500,000 for the charity over 12 years. While the GGC won’t be going ahead this year, RSABI will be unveiling an exciting new challenge for September 2025, set in a stunning setting in Perthshire and details of this event will be announced soon.

Each event is designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants, from those seeking a physical challenge to those preferring a more leisurely experience. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged.

RSABI’s Head of Fundraising, Pauline Macmillan, extended thanks to all those who have supported and participated in the Great Glen Challenge over the past decade.

“We’re looking forward to harnessing that brilliant enthusiasm as we move forward with three new challenges, offering fantastic alternative ways for our supporters to get involved with friends and family,” said Pauline.

“We are very grateful to our supporters for their enthusiasm and commitment to RSABI. Whether they opt for the thrilling new challenge at The Kelpies or a peaceful walk around Loch Leven, there’s something for everyone and we’re looking forward to seeing our community come together to raise funds to allow us to continue to support people in farming and crofting.”

RSABI offers free practical, financial, and emotional support including counselling services, delivered quickly after receiving the initial enquiry. Its free confidential support service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, by calling 0808 1234 555 (calls won’t show up on phone bills) or through a confidential webchat service, available on RSABI’s website www.rsabi.org.uk.

Participants can sign up for the Kelpies Challenge and Walk the Loch at www.rsabi.org.uk/events  and the charity is also keen to hear from potential corporate sponsors for the events, with a range of opportunities to be involved we would love to hear from interested organisations. Contact rsabi@rsabi.org.uk for more information.

 

Photo credit: Peter Sandground

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