Whisky Focus - Bowmore Ben Nevis challenge - The result

Disabled teams defy difficult terrain and appalling weather to meet the 2011 Bowmore Ben Nevis Challenge.

I was determined to make it to the top this time, having had to turn back before. I’m ecstatic to have got to the summit.’ Rosie Smith, Team Leader, Nitshill.

Eight teams of disabled and non-disabled people on Saturday 20th August 2011 set off on what is the ultimate challenge; conquering the UK’s highest peak Ben Nevis. Sponsored by Bowmore, the first Islay Single Malt Whisky, the Bowmore Ben Nevis Challenge is the culmination of months of training and preparation for the teams.

Guided by ex-SAS officer and TV Presenter Ken Hames, the teams were led by disabled people with a variety of impairments. The leaders, seven of who are using specially designed wheelchairs, must navigate and direct their team to the summit and in the process help raise vital funds for Capability Scotland.

The teams made the ascent despite at times appalling weather with almost constant rain and, at times, zero visibility. Working with experienced volunteer mountain guides they worked their way across treacherous terrain, avoiding sheer drops and contending with large boulders and fences.

The first team to the top was led by Rosie Smith (24) from Nitshill in Glasgow. She and her team ‘Rosie’s Runners’ made the summit in just 5 hours and 20 minutes. ‘Despite having attempted this before, I was still nervous’ said Rosie, ‘but I was determined to make it to the top this time, having had to turn back before. I’m ecstatic to have got to the summit.’

Andy Steen (45) from Gourock and his team ‘We Want To Go Hames’ was second to the summit. He commented: "How many people can say they've been up Ben Nevis? I've joined an elite club! I hope this event will help dispel the myth that sometimes exists that disabled people need to be wrapped in cotton wool!"

Capability Scotland, Director of External Affairs, Richard Hamer, added: "We are delighted to have been able to work with our sponsor, Bowmore, to stage this terrific challenge. Not only will the event help raise vital funds to support disabled people at home, at work and in school it will also hopefully demonstrate just what can be achieved when disabled people are given the opportunity to explore and enjoy every part of our country, an opportunity which they are not always given."

Cara Laing, Bowmore Brand Manager said, "Bowmore has always been a champion of nature and the great outdoors so we’re delighted to be supporting Capability Scotland and the team to take on this, the ultimate physical and mental challenge for both non disabled and disabled people. We’ll be taking part in the challenge and waiting at the bottom of the mountain to give each of the participants an extra special dram. It would be great if our friends can show their support by digging deep and helping to raise our fundraising goal of £100,000.”

To show your support please visit Capability Scotland or Capability Scotland on Facebook
 

• UK Shops
   
• USA Shops
   
• European Shops
  

Whisky Focus