20 May 2025

Trustee Ian is going the extra mile for Redwings

Trustee Ian, wearing a Redwings branded sports shirt, stood in front of a lake and some sheep

Redwings Trustee Ian training for his mammoth walk!

Ian Scott already volunteers his time to be a Trustee, but now he is going the extra mile (quite literally!) for Redwings by taking on an impressive fundraising challenge.

On the 7th and 8th June, Ian, who is 70-years-old, will be undertaking a 100km (over 60 miles!) ultra-walking challenge in the Lake District. Walking day and night, the challenge will likely take around 24 hours.

Ian has been a trustee for Redwings since 2021 and has a commercial background in the rural and equestrian industries. He’s also an internationally recognised equestrian commentator, meaning he brings a wealth of equestrian experience to his role.

Ian with his horse TJ

Contributing to Redwings' lifesaving work

Ian said: “I first decided to become a Redwings trustee as I wanted to give something back to horses, after working for so long in the industry. As a trustee, I have a unique perspective on the amount of work that goes into Redwings’ mission to rescue horses in need across the UK.

“It is this that motivates me to complete this challenge – I would like to raise much-needed funds to contribute to Redwings’ lifesaving work, saving horses from starvation, neglect, abuse and illness.”
The challenge begins and ends in Kendal, so Ian and his walking buddy Mike will be taking in the beautiful sights (and the big hills!) of the Lake District.

Ian said: “The challenge does require me to be very physically fit, so between now and June I will be heading out for lots of long-distance training walks to build my endurance. Training will be a whole picture though – including plenty of time in the gym – to make sure I am ready. “

Training update - 10th May

With just four weeks to go before the main event, Ian's training has hit full speed as he carries out a carefully planned programme to maximise stamina, recovery and pace leading up to the 7th and 8th June.

This involves two long walks per week of 20 - 25 miles, interspersed with gym and tennis. Later this month Ian will complete the White Peak loop in the Peak District which is 42 miles over two days, and then finish the penultimate week with a full 30 mile walk before resting up and driving to our start/finish location in Kendal.

Ian said: "The last couple of weeks of preparation for my Ultra Challenge has had some ups and downs! My sponsorship has received a major boost with a group of friends pledging £500, taking my total raised to around £1200 with Gift Aid, and that is a huge boost for my morale too!

"On the downside, my walking buddy Mike has had to postpone his involvement in the Ultra Challenge for medical reasons. Together we have walked hundreds of miles together, and I will feel the extra pressure without his quiet encouragement and steady support - but I wish him a speedy recovery, and together we hope he might still be able to join me for some of the event."

Whilst we know that Ian will miss the company of his friend Mike, everyone here at Redwings will be willing him on during his mammoth challenge. If you would like to show your support and help him towards his fundraising goal, click here.

Training update - April 7th

Ian's training for his challenge has really begun in earnest!

Ian said: "My current target is to achieve a minimum of a 20 - 25 mile walk once a week in April alongside other smaller walks. The picture below is of myself (left) and my walking buddy Mike walking the 24 miles of Rutland Water.

"Not only is the challenge 100km long, the total elevation is 2,500m! We start in Kendal, then go up through Ambleside, down round the far side of Lake Windemere, down to Grange-over-Sands and then back up to finish at Kendal - all of this in less than 24 hours!"

As of this week, Ian has raised over £500 - an amazing total so far, and one that will help transform the lives of horses and donkeys in need. To help him towards his fundraising goal, click here.

Ian the inspiration!

Ian has set up a JustGiving page, so people can sponsor him as he undertakes this mammoth challenge and said: “All donations will make me more determined than ever to complete the demanding miles!”

Inspired by Ian’s efforts and think you could take on a fundraising challenge for Redwings? Click here to find out more or request your fundraising pack!