Student bags a Munro a week for Mo-vember
A GCU student is claiming there’s more to the mo’ this month – by raising funds by climbing, walking and kayaking the distance of one Munro a week.
Fourth year Environmental Management student Ewan Batty is paving the way for a new type of fundraiser for the Movember UK charity.
Friends and family have already began donating money to Ewan’s fundraiser page as he embarks on his challenge to summit at least one Munro every week for the month of November.
If the weather does not allow then he plans to cycle, kayak or wall climb the equivalent distance/elevation of a Munro.
President of the Students’ Association’s Outdoor Sports Club Ewan describes how his passion for adventurous sports pushed him to take on this fundraising challenge.
He said; “I wanted to keep motivated especially during these difficult and uncertain times we all face.
Movember is trying to become more inclusive of those who can take part by moving towards the focus on 'moving' rather than just growing a 'mo'.
I hope that 'Munros for Movember' will catch on and encourage others to keep active, enjoy the countryside and stay safe and healthy.”
He added; “I hope that by raising awareness and funds for men's health charities it will encourage others to do the same and hopefully help men understand that it’s okay not to be okay, and it is helpful to talk.”
The current COVID-19 restrictions and weather will make this a tough challenge for the avid hillwalker but Ewan is determined to complete the challenge and work around his studies.
He explained; “I’m ensuring I plan my walks around weather, lectures and covid guidance – it can be a challenge but so far so good!
I would also like to make people aware that I am an experienced hill walker and only attempt Munros when the conditions are appropriate.
By the end of November, I expect to have summited 50 Munros which I have been attempting since I was 8 years old.”
Ewan added; “I would also like to thank the GCU Mountaineering Club which has recently combined with GCU Canoe & Kayak club to form GCU Outdoor Sports.
My time as a fresher with the old club helped reignite my passion for hill walking.
I would also like to thank family, friends and colleagues who have supported me through donations and to those who have joined me on my walks - in line with latest covid restrictions of course. “
To support Movember UK you can donate to Ewan’s fundraiser page.
By Rebecca Meechan
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