Heidi in training.
Heidi in training.
Communications Executive Heidi White is heading to Edinburgh on 17th September with a team from head office to take on the 26-mile challenge of the Mighty Stride. We caught up with her to find out about her preparations and her chosen charity.
Heidi made the decision to walk after being impressed by the presentations given by the Kiltwalk team here at Arnold Clark and also wanted to test her abilities, saying: ‘I also liked the thought of challenging myself, both mentally and physically’.
Heidi is walking for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation. She said: ‘I felt robbed when my dad died 13 years ago. He had lung cancer and after a successful operation to remove his lung he had to learn how to function without the use of two. The doctors and nurses would encourage him to first walk a few steps but my dad being my dad would attempt to walk the full corridor and really push himself.
‘He attempted more walks and bit by bit he grew stronger and could walk to the end of the road. I figure if I can be as brave and strong as him I’ll have him on my shoulder crossing the finish line after 26 miles.’
With a fundraising target of £200, Heidi appreciates the support given by Arnold Clark. ‘I think the match funding from Arnold Clark is really special. It's incredible that you can double your money for your chosen charity and feel like you are really making a difference.’
The Mighty Stride begins at 9am at Murrayfield before moving towards the banks of Forth through Gypsy Brae, around the coastal sights of Granton and Leith, up towards Arthur’s Seat before winding back to the home of Scottish rugby.
‘I’m nervous and excited at the same time. It’s an actual walking marathon! We have heard stories that Edinburgh is the toughest to walk as it can be steep in some places but we’ll give it a good bash!’
If you’re walking on the day, then be sure to stick close to Heidi who has a surefire way of keeping spirits high. ‘I’m planning on walking and talking. When I run out of chat I start playing the movie game to whoever will play or listen to me!’
Everyone at Arnold Clark wishes Heidi the best of luck!
