Highlands to Hebrides FAQ's

 

What is the entry fee?

£300 per person.  You can enter as a team of 2 or 4.  This must be paid in full before the event takes place.


What is the fundraising target?

We ask that each person raises a minimum of £1500 sponsorship.  This can begin as soon as you have signed up and you can also fundraise during your challenge Beatson Cancer Charity are always on hand to support you with your fundraising efforts. 


What happens if I don’t reach my fundraising target?

Beatson Cancer Charity appreciate that it can be daunting once you commit to raising a minimum amount and will do all we can to ensure you do so.  If you are experiencing any challenges please let us know and we can share some helpful hints and tips to ensure you reach that target. 


What are the dates of the event?
 

Thursday 13th May - Participants arrive in Inverness for their pre event briefing and dinner at 7.00pm. 
Friday 14th May - Highlands to Islands Challenge will set off at 08.00am from a secret location in Inverness.  The final checkpoint must be reached by 1.00pm on Sunday 16th May The event will conclude with a prize giving dinner and all guests will depart on Monday 17th May AM. 


How do participants return to Glasgow?

Participants will be bussed back to a central point in Glasgow on Monday 17th May AM.   (THERE IS AN OPTION FOR THOSE THAT WANT TO BE TRANSFERRED BACK TO GLASGOW ON SUNDAY EVENING) 


How many teams are taking part?

There is a maximum of 36 participants competing in this event. 


How many people are in a team?

Each team consists of two or four adults.  Teams must stay together throughout the duration of the challenge.   


When will teams find out the route?

The exact route, checkpoints and finish location will not be revealed in advance.  Teams will receive instructions at each checkpoint to navigate to the next destination. 


How remote are the checkpoints?

Whilst you are trekking across the highlands – all checkpoints will be in built up areas and not remote areas. 


Will I be able to use a Smartphone?

You will be provided with a “dumb” phone for the duration of the event – this is only to make telephone calls with and will have no apps facility.  Whilst we won’t remove your own Smartphone for the challenge, we do ask that you do not refer to any Map apps for assistance You can use your own phone when taking pictures during your challenges. 


I have a medical condition – can I take part?

Participant safety is a top priority.  If you have a medical condition, please consult your doctor before committing to the challenge.  You must disclose any relevant health issues to the organisers ahead of the event so we can assess risks and provide appropriate support. 

While the event involves physical endurance and travel in remote areas, basic first aid cover will be provided throughout.  However participants are responsible for their own health and fitness to safely complete the challenge. 


How do teams pay for their travel, food and accommodation?

Part of the challenge is that teams receive only a small cash allowance of £100 per person per day to cover their travel, food and accommodation throughout the event Teams must organise and manage expenses carefully within this budget, using creativity and resourcefulness as part of the overall experience.  If you need to go over budget using your own funds, you may do so, however you may incur penalties. 

Examples of how teams might stay/camp overnight include: 

  • Camping in tents along the route.
  • Negotiating a night’s stay by offering help, such as cleaning or odd jobs, to local B&B owners or hosts.
  • Booking budget accommodation or hostels where possible. 


Can teams bring their own bikes?

Yes, teams may choose to bring their own bikes.   Both team members must travel together by bike if choosing this option. 


Is the event physically challenging?

This event is not categorised as a tough endurance challenge and is designed to be accessible to as many people as possible. 


Can teams camp?

Yes, teams are welcome to bring tents and camp along the route or alternatively find a way to get accommodation using the challenge event budget Accommodation is not provided or pre-booked by the organisers – except for arrival and departure nights. 


What happens if a team member cannot attend?

Teams must stay together for the entire challenge.  Solo participation is not permitted.  It is recommended teams have a reserve member who can step in if needed. 


Is travel insurance included?

No – we recommend that you get travel insurance to cover potential risks, including medical emergencies or personal property loss. 


I have a question that is not included here – how can I get in touch?

Email – fundraising@beatsoncancercharity.org
Phone – 0141 212 0505


Who is Beatson Cancer Charity?

Beatson Cancer Charity supports people affected by cancer, every step of the way. We make the journey easier by transforming the way cancer care is funded and delivered. We provide services, as well as funding specialists, research and education to invest in a better future for cancer patients and their families.    

From the hospital wards, right to the heart of the communities that The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre serves, we believe everyone should experience cancer with care, with love and with hope. We are with our patients and their families for every step of the journey.   

By working within NHS environments, Beatson Cancer Charity is ideally placed to understand the needs of patients and staff. We respond by providing services and funding that enhance and strengthen NHS care and enable patients and their families to be helped swiftly and compassionately. At the same time our independence as a charity allows us to develop and extend our services further into the heart of Scottish communities to support more people with cancer before, during and after treatment.   

Amongst patients and the wider community, we are best known for our award-winning Wellbeing Centre and specialist support at The Beatson West of Scotland Cancer Centre and across hospitals in five health boards. While clinical and research professionals recognise us for our ongoing commitment to more effective cancer services, funding additional specialist staff and supporting cutting-edge cancer research and education.    

All our work is made possible by our supporters. It is their generosity which allows Beatson Cancer Charity to deliver an innovative and patient-focused approach to cancer care and change the lives of those affected by the disease every day.