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A team from Cassells Fitness Studio has completed an incredible 500km relay from John O'Groats to Glasgow, raising funds for Beatson Cancer Charity in memory of Eilidh McHugh.
PICTURED: Team Cassells Fitness Starting Challenge
Setting off from John O'Groats at 4am on Monday 20 July, Stephen Cassells, Alan Lowe, James McKay, Jack Sloss and Ethan Harris ran continuous 5km relay legs over two days before arriving at Cassells Fitness Studio in Glasgow at around 8.30pm on Tuesday 21 July.
Believed to be the first event of its kind in the UK, the ambitious relay marks the beginning of a wider programme of fundraising by the gym community in support of Beatson Cancer Charity.
The team all have personal reasons for supporting the charity, which has provided care and support to many of them, as well as members of the Cassells Fitness community.
Their fundraising has also been inspired by the story of Eilidh McHugh, from Hamilton, who died from cancer aged just 22. Through Team Eilidh, her family and supporters have already raised nearly half a million pounds for Beatson Cancer Charity. Although many of the team never had the opportunity to meet Eilidh, they have been inspired by the stories shared by her mum, Elaine, who is part of the fundraising team, and hope to honour Eilidh's memory while helping more families affected by cancer.
Stephen Cassells, co-owner of Cassells Fitness Studio, said: "The original idea behind the Speed Project was simply five ordinary guys wanting to see what was possible. When we decided to do it for Beatson Cancer Charity, it became so much more than just a running challenge. It's a cause that's close to our hearts and to so many others.
I genuinely believe that if it wasn't for the bigger picture and who we were doing it for, it would have been easy to give up. The discomfort we all felt during the challenge, and are still feeling now, is temporary, but the difference this fundraising can make will last a lifetime.
We were lucky enough to choose this challenge. The families supported by Beatson Cancer Charity don't get to choose theirs. If pushing ourselves for a couple of days raises vital funds, increases awareness and gives even one family a little more hope, then every single mile was worth it."
PICTURED: Team Cassells Fitness Celebrating Finishing the Challenge
Jack Sloss added: "The Speed Project was an emotional rollercoaster. The last 16 hours were the toughest, battling tiredness and fatigue when it felt like it would never end. I kept pushing through the pain barrier and I'm so proud of what we achieved together. Knowing the money raised will help Beatson Cancer Charity continue supporting families made every step worthwhile."
James McKay said: "When I found out we were doing this for Beatson Cancer Charity, I was all in. They gave my dad incredible care and showed my whole family so much love and support, so this became deeply personal. Running through the Highlands in complete darkness gave me time to reflect, and I'll never forget it. I'm incredibly proud of what our team achieved together."
Ethan Harris said: "This challenge was far bigger than I ever imagined. Every member of the team gave everything they had, whether that was running through the night or supporting each other behind the scenes. There were moments when it would have been easy to stop, but nobody did. We finished together, supported by an amazing community, and we did it for those who don't get the chance to take on challenges like this."
Alan Lowe said: "I was a late addition to the Speed Project but, as soon as I was asked to take part, I never doubted this team would complete it. We knew it would be physically and mentally tough, but raising money for Beatson Cancer Charity gave us the drive to keep going.
There were moments when it would have been easy to stop, but everyone lifted each other up through the toughest miles. Crossing the finish line together, surrounded by our families and the community, is a moment I'll never forget. I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved and grateful for everyone who has supported us along the way."
Morag Cunningham, Director of Fundraising at Beatson Cancer Charity, said: "We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Cassells Fitness Studio for taking on this phenomenal challenge. Completing a 500km relay over two days is an outstanding achievement, and every mile reflects the team's commitment to making a difference for people affected by cancer."
Funds raised will help Beatson Cancer Charity continue providing wellbeing, emotional and practical support for people affected by cancer and their families across the west of Scotland.
Anyone wishing to support the team's fundraising can donate via their JustGiving page.
