Arnold Clark Marketing Executive Emma Kinloch is joining a number of her colleagues from head office in taking on the challenge of the Kiltwalk in Edinburgh this weekend. She’ll be walking in the 26-mile Mighty Stride, the longest distance available on the day.
Emma is walking for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, making a difference to a cause that has affected her personally. She said ‘I’m doing it in honour of my best friend Laura who passed away from cystic fibrosis in July last year at only 28 years old.’
Working at Arnold Clark, the Kiltwalk seemed like a natural choice. Emma told us: ‘I knew I wanted to do something for my chosen charity and after seeing a lot of my colleagues take part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk and have the Kiltwalk team come to Head Office to tell us all about it, it seemed like a fun day out whilst raising money for my charity. Also, the incentive that Arnold Clark will double my donations made it even more appealing. It means I can get as much as possible for the charity.’
Emma has already exceeded her fundraising target of £200, which has left her free to focus on her training regime. ‘I’ve done a few long distance walks, all of which I’ve suffered for after and none of them have been close to 26 miles, so that doesn't bode well for me! I’ve also just bought a FitBit to try and spur me on daily to up my steps and exercise and get my wee legs used to walking more.’
Although she’ll be well prepared and spurred on by her fellow walkers, Emma admits this walking 26 miles is a little intimidating. She said: ‘Honestly…I’m petrified! I’ve said to myself a few times, ‘Why didn't I think this through?’ as I’ve never pushed myself like this before and I’m really worried about the challenge ahead. But then again, if it wasn't tough, then it wouldn't be worth it. I just hope I can make it to the finish line and that the support from the crowds, my colleagues also taking part and the atmosphere and adrenaline on the day will keep me going! Fingers crossed!’
Everyone at Arnold Clark wishes Emma the best of luck on Sunday!