Agronomist tackles gruelling endurance race in aid of farming charity

Stock photo for illustration only.

Father-of-two Chris McClymont, who works as an agronomist for Agrii, completed the non-stop, 268-mile UK mountain marathon to raise funds and awareness for FCN.

The Montane Spine Race, widely regarded as one of Britain’s most brutal endurance races, attracts competitors from around the globe to tackle the Pennine Way. It starts in Edale, Derbyshire and ends in Kirk Yetholm, Scottish Borders.

It is a true test of physical and mental resilience, with entrants warned to expect ‘extreme weather, deep snow, ice, mud, bogs, ground water, storm force winds and driving rain’ during the 7-day race.

This year, 150 competitors took part in the race, which is now in its 11^th year, from 15^th-22^nd January.

Chris (pictured) took part in the 268-mile UK mountain marathon, raising £2,000 for charity.

Chris was inspired to compete after a recent training session by FCN, which discussed the resilience farmers shown by farmers in difficult times, and the support given by charities like FCN.

Speaking ahead of the event, he said: “I felt I could raise money and highlight this resilience and strength by competing in one of the toughest events in the country, where I’ll need both of these qualities and more.”

He added: “The difference that FCN volunteers make to the mental wellbeing of people in rural communities is incredible. I come into contact with people every day who could potentially receive confidential support from the charity, whether it’s a sympathetic ear or the offer to ‘walk with’ anyone seeking help. It’s so important.”

No stranger to demanding terrain and sporting achievements, Chris also previously cycled a 60-mile leg of the 420-mile ‘Mull to Hull’ expedition last year, as part of a group of fundraising farming professionals.

Chris has been based at Agrii’s Ponteland depot for 13 years and says the company gave generously to his cause. He has so far raised just over £2,000.

Commenting on Chris’s completion of the race, Alex Phillimore, head of communications and development at FCN, said: “Chris has shown incredible resilience throughout this challenge, which is a true demonstration of stamina and strength. We are blown away by the support for FCN from Chris and those who have contributed to his fundraiser. We congratulate Chris on his impressive achievement and thank him for raising awareness of our charity and the support we provide the farming community.”

Visit the JustGiving page to donate:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chris-mcclymont268