ORGANISERS of the Caledonian Challenge say they are on track to reach their fundraising target of half a million pounds.
The annual hike, one of Scotland's toughest endurance events, took place in June and saw almost 1,000 hardy souls tackle the West Highland way in 12-hour or 24-hour sections.
Now the team behind the event say that the money collected so far from those who sponsored the walkers and match-funding from businesses is nearing the £500,000 total.
Since its inception almost 20 years ago 17,000 people have taken part in the event raising over £13 million for Foundation Scotland, Scotland's busiest grantmaker.
This year, a team of from the Herald newsroom braved the 24-hour route, raising £8,434, more than five times their initial £1,600 target.
"The 54" - a 54-mile challenge in 24 hours began at Gairlochy, on the Great Glen Way walk north of Fort William, and ended at Strathfillan Wigams near Tyndrum. "The 24"- 24 miles - started in Glen Nevis, ending at the Glencoe Ski centre.
On both, participants had to climb out of Glen Nevis, head along the Lairigmor - the great pass - to an old military road and then down into Kinlochleven.
They were then faced with a climb out of "the electric village" and over to the Devil's Staircase path to take them down to Glencoe.
Foundation Scotland Events Director Fraser Lennox said: “The Caledonian Challenge teams continue to work hard on their fundraising for Foundation Scotland, with funds still being donated and helping us on our way to our £500,000 target.
"A huge thanks to all our teams for their hard work and to all the companies and organisations who have generously match funded their staff."
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