highland kings - the gathering
battle of the clans
day 1 - 40 Miles - Ascent 2987m - 28th April
day 2 - clan highland games - 29th April
The last day of Highland Kings holds a distinct significance. Not only does it mark the penultimate event of Highland Kings Ultra race, but it also features a special event known as the gathering, battle of the clans
During the gathering, veterans and currently serving military personnel come together to participate in a 40-mile team race and a Highland Games tournament, all in the spirit of raising funds for charity.
Veterans & Serving Military Personnel Raising funds for charity
Since the dawn of time across the rugged moors of ancient Scotland, a tradition was born that would echo through the centuries - the Highland Games. It all began as a way for clans to showcase their strength, skill, and unity in the face of constant threats and challenges.
Choosing the strongest warriors who embodied the spirit of strength, unity, and endurance that has defined warriors for generations.
Throughout history, from World War 2 to the present day, the military has conducted exercises in the stunning landscapes of Glencoe and the surrounding Scottish Highlands.
By uniting military personnel in this event, Highland Kings aims to contribute to raising both funds and awareness for charity, providing vital support to those who have served and their families
SERVING PERSONEL AND VETERANS
battle of the clans team - £250pp
Field - Self supported tented accommodation.
Hot water for meal prep.
Hot Showers.
Safety Runners.
Route checkpoint support.
Medical support.
UTMB Index race (50K Category.)
Live GPS tracking.
End of race awards.
ADDITIONALS
Cardiopulmonary testing at the Porsche Human Performance Centre is available to add on for an additional fee.
Brian Wood
Brian Wood was awarded the Military Cross , one of Britain’s highest awards for gallantry in combat, by Her Majesty The Queen II, following his courageous leadership under enemy fire in Iraq.
At the young age of 23, Brian Wood found himself thrust into the front lines of Iraq, facing the harrowing Battle of Danny Boy. In a moment of crisis, he courageously led a bayonet charge across open ground with insurgents firing at just five soldiers. His remarkable bravery did not go unnoticed, and upon his return, he was honoured with the Military Cross by Queen Elizabeth II.
However, Brian's journey had only just begun. Struggling to reintegrate into family life, he grappled with the haunting spectre of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Then, five years later, a pivotal moment arrived when a letter summoned him to provide evidence at the Al-Sweady Inquiry, an investigation into allegations of war crimes by British soldiers during the Iraq invasion of 2003.
Amid years of public scrutiny and disgrace, Brian took the stand and delivered a powerful testimony. The inquiry's tension-laden proceedings ultimately led to a just resolution. Phil Shiner, the lawyer behind the false accusations, faced professional consequences, being disbarred and stripped of an honorary doctorate
veterans ambassador
Brian's extraordinary life story has been commissioned for a compelling 90-minute dramatisation on the BBC titled 'Danny Boy.'
His subsequent endeavours have been equally remarkable:
In 2021, he embarked on 'The Ultimate Sacrifice,' a mission to run 25 marathons in 25 days in honour of the fallen.
In 2022, he pushed his limits further with 'The Ultimate Sacrifice,' completing 35 marathons in 35 days.
In 2023, he took on the Marathon Des Sables, renowned as the world's toughest foot race, further showcasing his unwavering determination and resilience.
Highland Kings is immensely proud to have Brian as an ambassador for our Highland Kings Challenge Day. He wholeheartedly supports the cause of veterans and those in service uniform, actively working to raise awareness about mental health and the significant sacrifices made by individuals in uniform.
