3rd Dec 2014

The first ever MACC Challenge took place at Machrihanish Airbase on Saturday 29th November and was a massive success, thanks to the help and support from the local community.

One hundred brave participants tackled a 4 mile obstacle course spread across the site, consisting water slides, mud runs, spiders webs, hay bales, cargo nets and much much more. The event was non-competitive, with organisers keen to encourage fun and camaraderie.

Those taking on the Challenge rose to the occasion, dressing up in military costume on the day and many diving head first into the mud and water obstacles (literally). Three hardy participants travelled all the way from Fife on the morning of the event and thoroughly enjoyed themselves, impressed by the friendly reception they received and the encouragement from the marshals throughout the course.

A number of local groups, businesses and individuals made the MACC Challenge possible by volunteering their time and donating materials to help build the course in the weeks leading up to the event. Fifth year pupils from Campbeltown Grammar School played a huge role, spending a number of Friday afternoons setting up and contributing their ideas to make the course even better (everyone remember the Zombies?)

Organisers would also like to thank everyone involved on the day including helpers, marshals, spectators and of course, participants. A true example of Campbeltown’s community spirit.

Volunteers from the Kintyre Dialysis Campaign served up soup, refreshments and home baking for all on the day. Profits from the event will be donated to the group, who have been campaigning for a dialysis unit in Campbeltown Hospital from July this year. This is a hugely worthwhile cause and something that means a lot to many individuals and families in Campbeltown.

Drawing inspiration from increasingly popular Obstacle Race events, the idea for the MACC Challenge came from Campbeltown Running Club’s Elaine McGeachy and James Murdoch, who thought the land and unique buildings at Machrihanish Airbase were crying out for an obstacle course.

Elaine said: ‘We knew there was scope for an event like this in Kintyre but we really have been blown away by the response we have had. The event sold out within one week and the feedback from Challengers has been amazing. Everyone keeps asking us when the next one is!’

MACC are delighted to have been able to facilitate this event and thank Elaine and James for their hard work. Elaine’s experience as one of the organisers of the MOK Run, coupled with James’ enthusiasm, having participated in many obstacle events such as Tough Mudder and Spartan Race, ultimately brought to life a fantastic new sporting event for the Kintyre calendar.

See you in 2015!

Comments from Facebook:

‘Fantastic event, well done to the organisers. I enjoyed every bit of it, even the smoke and zombie filled panic room!’ John Galbraith

‘Well the 3 Fifers are home safe and sound, what an awesome day! We all completed the challenge, thanks to all the marshals for their encouragement and support throughout the day.’ Gregor Burt

‘Had an awesome time doing MACC Challenge, was so much fun, covered head to toe in mud and water. Huge well done and thanks to the organisers, marshals, bakers and helpers for making it such a great day! Can’t wait ‘til next year’s event!’ Alix Geyer

‘What an utterly awesome experience this was. So much fun. Well done to all organisers & participants.’ Katie Ferguson