WATCH: Cyclist Mark Beaumont delivers motivational message ahead of Bridge to Bridge challenge in Highlands
British long-distance cyclist, broadcaster and author Mark Beaumont has sent a good luck message ahead of a Highland charity fundraising cycle challenge cutting through a swathe of Ross-shire.
About 200 cyclists will take part in the 77-mile Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle event from the Skye Bridge to the Kessock Bridge on Saturday, September 7.
Entries now open for Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle charity fundraiser
In a filmed motivational message, Mr Beaumont - who holds the record for cycling round the world, completing his 18,000-mile route in 2017 - gives a shout out to the event along with the participants, supporters and organisers.
“I hope it goes really well - the fundraising, the tailwinds, smiles, cakes,” says Mr Beaumont who has pedalled the NC500 more times than he cares to remember.
“Have a great a time.
“Well done to everyone involved.”
This is the third year of the event and this year’s chosen charities are the Elsie Normington Foundation, The Leanne Fund and Day1 Mentoring.
The event was originally set up by businessman Willie Gray and a group of friends from Culbokie and it has grown in size each year.
"I'm proud to be part of the Bridge to Bridge team, organising this incredible event for the third year,” said Mr Gray who is the managing director of Ark Estates.
“The cycle is always a fantastic day, we've had such positive feedback from participants in previous years who consistently praise our dedicated army of volunteers for making it such a special experience.
Mr Gray said thanks to the event’s generous sponsors, 100 per cent of the money raised will go straight to the charities which were all doing fantastic work locally.
"We've been blown away by the success of the event over the last couple of years, and we can't wait for this year's cycle," he said.
The Elsie Normington Foundation led the campaign for the £4.8 million Haven Centre for young people with severe learning disabilities which opened last year.
The Leanne Fund brings hope to those affected by Cystic Fibrosis through a range of social, practical, emotional and financial support services and Day1 provides award-winning youth and child mentoring programmes to local vulnerable children and young people in the Highlands who are failing to thrive.
A JustGiving page has been set up and so far it has raised more than £20,000 towards a £50,000 target.
Places are also still available for cyclists wanting to take part. Go to Bridge To Bridge Highland Cycle for more details.
Last year’s event raised £103,000 for Dream Believe Achieve and The Elsie Normington Foundation.
