A group of hospitality leaders have completed a 185-mile cycle along the Hebridean Way to raise funds for HIT Scotland. The challenge, which took place from 29 April to 1 May, saw the team ride from Vatersay in the south to the Butt of Lewis in the north, crossing 10 islands, 6 causeways and taking in 2 ferry crossings.
The team, led by ishga Co-founder Leon Trayling, faced a mix of rugged terrain, steep climbs and unpredictable Hebridean weather – but completed the route and raised over £20,000 for the industry charity. A portion of the funds will also go to Bethesda Hospice on the Isle of Lewis.
The riders included Leon Trayling, Co-Founder & Director, ishga, Mark Hogarth, Brand Ambassador, Harris Tweed Hebrides; Marcello Ventisei, GM, Kimpton Blythswood Square & Voco Grand Central, Glasgow; Hans Rissmann, Owner, Strathaven Hotel; Jackie Marlow, COO, UKHospitality; Louise Rattray, Group Sales Manager, Crerar Hotels Collection; Andrew Mackay, Owner, The Caithness Collection and Glenn Woodage, Premium Business Manager, Whyte & Mackay. Several others from the industry completed the route virtually.
Leon Trayling said, “When David Cochrane MBE asked me to take on the Chair’s Challenge for HIT Scotland, I said yes straight away. We came up with the idea of cycling the length of the Outer Hebrides—and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved as a team.”
David Cochrane, Chief Executive of HIT Scotland, added, “This was a tough challenge and I’m hugely proud of the team for taking it on. The money raised will help us support the next generation of talent in Scottish hospitality.”
The challenge was supported by a number of sponsors, including: ishga, Loganair, CalMac Ferries, Hebridean Seaweed, YourTex, bbspa_Group, Isle of Barra Distillers, Strathaven Hotel and Williamson Foodservice.
HIT Scotland supports the development of individuals in the hospitality industry through its scholarship programme and training initiatives.