Inverness Caley Thistle footballers scale highest peaks in Wales, England and Scotland to raise thousands for Sophie’s Story

Footballers from Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s women’s team scaled the highest peaks on Wales, England and Scotland inside 24 hours to raise money for Sophie’s Story last weekend.

Sophie’s Story was created in December last year after Sophie Mason was diagnosed with Batten Disease, a rare, incurable neurological condition.

Over the last few months, a host of fundraisers have been held to support parents Keith and Lizzie cover equipment costs and make as many memories as they can with Sophie, who is now 23 months old.

Her aunt, Karen, is the manager of Caley Thistle Women, who immediately set about planning something to show their own support for the family.

They landed on the Three Peaks challenge – scaling the tallest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland inside 24 hours – and made their attempt last weekend.

Kicking things off on Saturday afternoon, first up was Yr Wyddfa in Snowdonia, before heading up to Scafell Pike in England’s Lake District on Saturday night.

Finally, Ben Nevis was conquered on Sunday morning, where the main group were met by a host of others cheering them on and joining them for the final leg.

Sophie’s aunt Karen reflected: “It was a huge success. The girls all definitely pushed themselves through lots of pain barriers and mental barriers.

“Certain body parts were struggling, and we had a bit of illness through it, but it was a huge success in that we did what we aimed to do in the time limit we set, and raised an incredible amount of money for Sophie.

“It was a great weekend, and I’m sure everyone will be glad to get a bit of recovery now.

“I’m really happy for all the girls, and having so many people joining us at Ben Nevis to give us that final push was really good as well. It shows the family spirit we have amongst us, so it was a great day all around.”

The challenge was a test in many ways for the group. Some had historical knee injuries that they had to battle, while others became unwell during the attempt.

There was also simply the tiredness factor coming into play, as the hiking plus travel times between peaks meant very little chance to rest and recover.

However, their efforts have been well rewarded, with the Go Fund Me attached to the Three Peaks challenge rapidly approaching its target of £6500.

“When we got back down, the first thought we had was to do a check on how much we had raised, and it was over £6000 and still growing,” Miss Mason added.

“It was really pleasing, and obviously it was very worthwhile doing. Every one of the girls are feeling very proud of themselves, as they should be.

“It’s been amazing, and I think that’s what being part of a team is all about. As much as it’s on the pitch for us, off the pitch we have that friendship that has been unwavering throughout all of this.

“From the start of planning this challenge, it has shown what the girls are willing to do – not just for me, but my family.

“Keith put up a post saying how incredible it is that people have been so supporting, and they know what it means to us all.

“I don’t really have the words to describe the gratitude I have for all the girls, and the willingness they had to put themselves through all that was amazing.”

Since Caley Thistle Women completed their challenge, another football connection has confirmed a new fundraiser for Sophie’s Story.

Clachnacuddin, where dad Keith had been coaching before Sophie’s diagnosis, will host a legends’ match on Friday, July 11, pitting Robbie Williamson against Iain Polworth on the sidelines.

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