Heart & The Highlands: Kyle's NC500 Bike Ride

Heart and Highlands: Kyle's NC500 Bike Ride – A Journey of Strength and Tribute

In August 2025, I am taking on the challenge of cycling the NC500 route to raise vital funds for two causes extremely close to my heart – Friends of Anchor and Alzheimer's Scotland. 

I will also be adding on an additional 100 miles where I will be joined by my friend of 28 years, Craig Bean! 

On top of this, my incredible Fiancé is going to be running her way in to Culter where we’ll all meet up at the finish line!!

This bike ride, will be a huge physical test, but the sole purpose is to raise as much money and awareness as possible for those fighting these horrible illnesses and in my eyes, go through far more than I could ever begin to imagine.

The Motivation:

My motivation is deeply personal. My cousin Kelly has been battling an incredibly aggressive form of breast cancer since December 2023. Over the past twelve months, she has endured intensive chemotherapy treatments that have taken an immense toll on her body. Despite this, Kelly has shown unparalleled strength, courage, and determination. She has also undergone a 13-hour surgery to remove the tumours and lymph nodes. As if this wasn’t tough enough, it was then on to 15 daily sessions of radiotherapy. Through her ongoing journey, Kelly’s resilience has inspired me to take on this challenge in her honor, raising funds to support Friends of Anchor, an organization that provides care for cancer patients and their families.

But this ride is also a tribute to those who have sadly lost their battle. My Grandad Davie and my Grandad Jack were both taken by cancer and Alzheimer's disease, respectively. These two men were pillars of strength in my life, and their loss has left an irreplaceable void. My Grandad Davie fought bravely against cancer, while my Grandad Jack's battle with Alzheimer's was a painful and heartbreaking journey for our family.

The Event:

The NC500, known as the “North Coast 500”, is a 500-mile route around the stunning coastline of Scotland. Known for its breathtaking views and unpredictable weather, this journey will push me to my limits, but it’s a challenge that I am more than ready to face. With each turn of the pedals, I will carry the memories of my grandfathers and the unwavering spirit of my cousin Kelly.

Me and Craig will then finish the challenge and complete the 600 miles together finishing up in Peterculter. 

Supporting Two Important Charities:

The funds raised from this ride will go to Friends of Anchor and Alzheimer's Scotland—two charities that provide invaluable support to those affected by cancer and Alzheimer's. Friends of Anchor helps provide vital care and services for cancer patients, from emotional and practical support to life-saving treatment. Alzheimer's Scotland works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer's and dementia and to support their families through difficult times.

Why Your Support Matters:

Through every steep hill and every long stretch of road, I will be thinking of them and of all the families whose lives have been touched by cancer and Alzheimer's. With every donation, I’ll feel your support and encouragement driving me forward.

Cancer and Alzheimer's disease touch so many lives. They are diseases that take away not only health, but memories, moments, and loved ones. Through this ride, I hope to raise awareness and funds that can make a real difference in the fight against these conditions. Every donation, no matter how small, will contribute to these vital causes, bringing hope to those who need it most.

This journey is not about me. It's about Kelly. It's about my Grandads. It's about everyone who is fighting their own battle, and everyone else who has lost someone dear. It's about heart, hope, and the highlands.

Thank you for supporting me, and for helping to make a difference. Together, we can bring hope, support, and offer our love to those who need it most.

#HeartAndHighlands #NC500BikeRide #FriendsOfAnchor #AlzheimersScotland #ForKelly #InMemoryOfFamily