East Loch Lomond-based pals Fiona Flanagan and Dave Arcari are taking up a challenge from Scottish Mountain Rescue to raise funds by each ‘covering’ 56 miles in May.
But unlike the majority of fundraisers walking, running or cycling, the pair are doing the distance – a mile for every rescue call-out per month – on stand-up paddle board.
“Fifty-six miles doesn’t sound far, but it is when you’re on a paddle board!” says Arcari who took up the sport last November after Fiona encouraged him to give it a try.
“The inflatable boards are quite susceptible to wind – and even when the water’s calm it’s usually slow going.” If the weather isn’t favourable on their local Loch Lomond, Fiona and Dave will use the challenge as a good excuse to explore some of the smaller and more sheltered lochs within easy travelling distance.
For the pals to complete the challenge they’re hoping not only for calm weather, but it to co-incide with their availability to go out on the water. We’re both self-employed,” says Fiona who’s been paddle boarding for more than five years.
“And while that brings us some flexibility time-wise, we’re both pretty busy.”
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Fiona runs a popular bed and breakfast in Balmaha and Dave is a full-time touring musician and songwriter. With their shared enthusiasm for the sport they recently set up a Facebook group for folks living in – or visiting – East Loch Lomond so they can share tips and advice, buddy up for trips or give those who haven’t been on a board the chance to try the sport for themselves.
To support Fiona and Dave’s fundraising for Scottish Mountain rescue, visit https://virtualevent.scottishmountainrescue.org/t/fionadavespaddle
