Rachel Mitchell cycles from Findhorn to Cairngorm Base Station to raise funds for SurfABLE and Scottish Autism charities
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A teenager has cycled 60 miles into the mountains to raise funds for charities who have supported her.
Rachel Mitchell (18), from Rafford, was supposed to complete the challenge from Findhorn to Cairngorm Base Station with her friend and fellow former Dudhope Young Peoples Inpatient Unit attendee, Sophie Thomas, but she was unable to attend so Rachel’s parents took turns to cycle with her instead.
Rachel said: “They cycled segments with me and we had stops for food and drink – mostly Lucozade and cereal bars – around every five miles. The wind was changeable but light. The sun was out all day which unfortunately led to sunburn!”
She added: “The views were spectacular.”
Rachel and Sophie are autistic and have benefited from sessions with instructors SurfABLE at Lossiemouth, Hopeman, Cullen and Sandend beaches, as well as help from the Scottish Autism charity.
The pair have so far raised a total of £600 for them via GoFundMe pages.
“All of the donations received are greatly appreciated” said Rachel.
Rachel’s cycling team set off from Findhorn at 9am and finished at Cairngorm Base Station at 6pm.
She said: “The hardest part was the ride up Cairngorm which was steep and never ending!
“My favourite part was the Speyside Way section to Aviemore as it signalled the end and had a great surface, although it was very up and down.
“Being able to cycle down Cairngorm was also really enjoyable!”
Rachel was very happy to finish the challenge.
She said: “It felt great! I was tired but happy to know I’d supported two charities who have had a great impact on people with autism.”
She added: “Now it’s time to go surfing again!”
Sponsor Rachel by following this link
