Jennifer among entrants for unique charity fundraiser

MOST marathon entrants will be told to get their skates on at some point or another.

Usually it’s not meant literally, but that will be the case when Scotland’s first roller skating marathon gets under way this summer.

Inline skates and heelys will also be among the footwear of choice at the inaugural Great Scottish Skate, which will take place at the Ingliston racecourse at The Royal Highland Centre in July.

Skaters can choose from three distances, including a marathon, a half marathon or a single lap of the track – around a mile.

The event will mark Scottish deaf charity Deaf Connections’ 190th anniversary celebrations, with organisers hoping to raise more than £10,000.

The fun won’t be limited to footwear – skateboards are welcome too. There will also be a separate event taking place on the day for micro scooters.

Jennifer Forbes, 18, who lives in Gorgie and is a member of the Auld Reekie Roller Girls, will take part in the full marathon.

Jennifer, a first-year student studying photography and film at Edinburgh Napier University, said: “I thought, ‘if I’m going to do it, I may as well do the full marathon’. There’s no point in doing things by halves.

“I thought it would be a really good challenge and I’m always wanting to get fitter and get better at skating, and I thought this would be a fun way to do it and raise money for charity too.”

Families across the Lothians are being urged to sign up to the event, which will take place on July 28 from noon.

Tamsin Ferrier, event and community fundraising manager for Deaf Connections, said: “We are really excited to host Scotland’s first ever roller challenge and would encourage skaters and boarders of all abilities to enter.

“The skating event is such a memorable way to mark what is already a very special year for Deaf Connections.

“The Great Scottish Skate is all about having fun and bringing skaters together, with the aim to raise money through sponsorship for a truly fantastic cause. We cannot thank everyone enough who has helped the charity over its 190 years.”

She added: “There will be a great buzz on the day and we would encourage people to register to take part. There will also be lots for spectators to see on the day and we’ll be announcing entertainment soon.”

Skaters from Scotland’s first national roller derby team recently helped launch the event. Mandi Collins, on behalf of Team Scotland Roller Derby, said: “We are thrilled to help launch such an exciting and worthwhile event.

“Never before has Scotland held such a unique marathon, and it will be fantastic to see so many people on skates getting involved, whilst raising money for such a deserving charity.”

Tickets cost £10 for the marathon and half marathon, and £5 for once round the track and for the scooter event. There is no charge for spectators.

Registration will open at 9.30am on the day. To sponsor Jennifer, visit www.justgiving.com/jenni-forbes

http://thegreatscottishskate.com/