Caley Thistle fan steps up for 9th annual march challenge

Inverness Caledonian fans

A DEDICATED football fan is set to don his hiking boots next week to embark on his 9th annual Highland March, which is a dedicated fundraising event set up by Caley Thistle fans in 2003.

Rob Wilson, who works at Inverness Airport, will be part of a group of eight fans who will walk from Inverness to Hamilton which is approximately 170 miles. The group will attempt to complete the challenge in two and a half days.

Traditionally the Highland March centres around the route between Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s last two games of the season. The march this year see the group set out at 10pm on Wednesday, May 11, after Inverness Caledonaian Thistle’s final home SPL game of the season against Hibernian. Then they have the challenging task of walking the tough route to Hamilton in time for the final away game of the season.

Rob said: "Due to the ‘Split’ system operated by The SPL, we didn’t actually know where we would be marching a few weeks ago. Although this route is probably the most challenging one we could have got, we are still very much looking forward to raising money for a very worthy cause."

He added: "This year we are raising money for Caley Thistle’s Club Link for Additional Needs (CLAN) charity, a fairly new group dedicated to improving match day experiences for disabled supporters, their family and carers. It is a fantastic cause which aims to provide and upgrade stadium facilities and access for the disabled, both in Inverness and nationally, whilst acting as a meeting point for individuals and families in similar circumstances."

The team began training for the event around New Year, and have since conducted a full over-night walk on March 25, and again on April 8, in preparation.

Graeme Bell, Inverness Airport Manager said: "On behalf of all staff here at Inverness Airport, we would like to wish Rob and the team all the best of luck for this year’s march. I know that Rob has been a key player in organising and participating in the past eight marches, and this year is set to be a real challenge - a brilliant event for a very worthy cause."

If you would like to donate to the team, they will be conducting a ‘bucket rattle’ at The Caledonian Stadium on May 11, following a ‘Lap of Honour’ with club manager Terry Butcher, as well as taking a bucket on the road with them.

For further information on the Highland March visit: www.highlandmarch.co.uk