As they gear up for the final Kiltwalk of 2025 in Edinburgh, on 13 September, members of the MCR Pathways team discuss how they’re feeling, what their tactics are, and reflect on what it means to take part in such an inspirational event.
First up is our extremely committed CEO, Sharon McIntyre, who is taking on her 3rd Kiltwalk of the year!
What has motivated you to take on not just one but three Kiltwalks?
I wanted to do the 4! But Glasgow was full, I was too slow. Next year I’ll do all 4! It really is an act of solidarity with our mentors, young people, MCR team members and partners – I couldn’t just choose one – I needed to let everyone know we, MCR Pathways, stand with everyone, and are privileged to walk shoulder to shoulder to support our mission to provide every young person with a trusted adult. Until everyone has someone.
Have you had anyone keeping you company on your Kiltwalks?
Mainly I walk alone and join our supporters on the walk, as well as learn so much from other charities. I have developed so many contacts from walking and chatting with other incredible charities!
What have you been doing to keep yourself motivated? Music or a podcast? Or just drinking in the atmosphere?
Drinking in the atmosphere every time – it carries you. That and people shouting “MCR? Best hour of my week!” – couldn’t get a more motivating chant!
How are you feeling ahead of the third and final walk?
I’m feeling good. It’s my home town, so it’ll be the 5th time I have done the Edinburgh walk!
What would you say to anyone thinking of taking on a Kiltwalk next year?
Give it a go, it is not just a walk it is an experience, a unique experience of meeting incredibly inspiring people from all over Scotland and colleagues, partners and even friends for life. The feel good factor of contributing to ours and other great causes, it lasts weeks beyond the sore toes!
Next up is Josh Morris, our Partnerships Manager for the East Region!
What inspired you to take on the Kiltwalk?
I’ve always wanted to do a big event for charity and when I saw this come up I thought, let’s do it! It helps that I work and volunteer with MCR Pathways, so I get it and I know our fundraising can go towards giving any young person, a trusted someone!
You’ve got a sporty background, do you think this will give you an upper hand on the day?
I certainly hope so! Since retiring from football 3 years ago, I do like to keep active and on the go, so I should be ok… I am super competitive though, so I’ll be setting lots of little goals during the walk!
What sort of things have you been doing to prepare?
Generally just upping my steps and trying to be more active. Golf, football and walks with family have all helped. I’m quite active anyway so I hope I’ll manage just fine!
Have you got a game plan to get yourself through the walk? Anything you plan on listening to, or any tactics for keeping your feet and muscles intact?
I’ll save a couple of podcasts (shock that they will be football related!) and I’m sure some Oasis and maybe some dance music to push me through.
As for the tactics for muscles and feet, I’m used to injuries as I spent a lot of time with injuries in my later days playing football, so I know how to power through! I’m genuinely quite excited about the adrenaline and walking past the crowds etc so that’ll help too! And the snacks…
There’s still time to donate to our wonderful Kiltwalkers here: https://tinyurl.com/bdfxtr3s
