Heartfelt tough Highland trek marks tragic adventurer’s 40th
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Three gutsy Strathnairn ladies embarked on a 40km walk from Laggan over the Corrieyairack Pass to Fort Augustus, to raise money for The Neil Mackenzie Trust.
The charity was set up in 2015 by Neil’s family following his death in a climbing accident in Canada.
Neil’s sister Caroline Tucker said: “2023 marks Neil’s 40th birthday. Along with Audrey Anthoney and Diana Mitchell, I wanted to do something to mark this anniversary that encapsulated his spirit of adventure and give us a challenge too.
“Although we all have a reasonable level of fitness, we are not regular long-distance walkers, so this was definitely a step out of our comfort zone!
“Neil loved the Highlands and the mountains so we felt that this was a fitting tribute, and he was definitely in our thoughts as we walked.”
The Corrieyairack is a challenging route that follows a Wade military road originally linking the government base of Fort Augustus with Ruthven Barracks outside Kingussie.
Fellow walker Audrey said: “It was an amazing walk, which definitely had its challenges! The weather threw everything at us, particularly at the top where we were battered by horizontal rain.
“It was a fantastic experience though, which I really enjoyed, and for a very worthwhile cause.”
Caroline added: “We would like to thank everyone who has supported us in our adventure, Phil and Alistair for providing transport, everyone who has donated so far, and The Boat House in Fort Augustus for feeding us so well.
“The biggest thank you has to go to Audrey and Diana, though, for agreeing to join me – I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them!”
The Neil Mackenzie Trust’s aim is to encourage training and adventure by awarding expedition grants for challenging adventures worldwide and educational expedition grants.
Click here to donate.
