Duathletes preparing for Badenoch again
The third running of Badenoch’s hit new duathlon event on this summer is being planned and will this year aid a major children’s charity.
The Highlander Escape the Redcoats which is being run on July 9 will benefit When You Wish Upon A Star.
Dougie Bulmer, co-organiser of the event, said: “The charity has a simple mission, to grant the wishes of children between two and 16 who are living with a life-threatening illness.”
The former Newtonmore man, now a police detective in Glasgow, launched the duathlon two years ago with his colleague Scott MacDonald, a Laggan native who now serves as a firefighter in Edinburgh.
“We genuinely believe this is a great event for all levels of competitors supporting an amazing charity,” said Bulmer.
The 39-mile cycle is predominantly on the quiet back roads at this end of the strath travelling through some awesome scenery.
The six-mile run takes in a course from Cluny Castle to Dalnashallag Bothy and the event concludes with a final six-mile cycle back to Newtonmore.
Bulmer said: “We have secured permission and are very grateful for access through this spectacular area.
“Although the distances may seem intimidating to less experienced competitors, we have worked hard to keep the route both stunning while keeping it very flat.
“We’re confident any person with a little preparation can take part.”
The event will start and finish at the a Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore, allowing competitors to finish in the 1700s township, with those at the museum keeping both competitors alongside friends and family entertained.
When You Wish Upon a Star has said its work has the power to transform the lives of the children and families and since 1990 the charity has granted more than 16,000 wishes across the UK.
Messrs Bulmer and MacDonald are no slouches over the years either when it comes to boosting charity funds with various feats of endurance.
n Those wanting to sign up for this year’s Highlander can do so at www.entrycentral.com and more details can be found at www.highlanderevent.co.uk
