ISLAND-BORN ADVENTURER, Katie Mackay, is no stranger to a challenge—but the one she’s currently tackling might just be her most ambitious yet.
Katie, who was born and raised on Bute and went to school on the island, is now 76 routes into a mammoth mission: completing 100 rock climbs across every mountainous region in the UK, linking them all entirely by human power—bike, foot, and boat.
Katie said: “This has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.
“Some of you will know me, some not, but I’m sure most will know my family.”
After successfully climbing through Wales and England, Katie and her small team are now back on home turf in Scotland.
After sailing to the Isle of Arran on Thursday to complete another climb, the
team will be sailing past Bute on Friday, May 2, en route to Helensburgh, where they’ll swap sails for saddles and cycle towards Arrochar.
Katie added: “Bute is my home, so it’s super special that we get to pass by and give it a wave during this challenge.
“Our first 12 hours back in Scotland have been incredibly uplifting— strangers offering kind words, and friends showing up with snacks and encouragement.”
The challenge is not only about personal endurance— it’s a heartfelt fundraiser for the Beatson Cancer Charity and Marie Curie UK.
Katie is dedicating the journey to her great uncle Roddy McDougall, a well- known Brandane, as well as to Liz Gillan, mother of her friend Kirsty, both of whom were supported by the charities during their battles withcancer.
She’s also celebrating the recovery of Beth Clyde, who fought and won with the help of Beatson.
Katie said: “We’ve been blown away by the donations and the support these
charities have received because of this challenge.
“It really means a lot, especially after such a difficult year for our families.”
