48 courageous climbers tackle The Kelpies challenge to raise funds for horses

On Sunday 14^th September, 48 daredevil fundraisers braved an aerial exploration of The Kelpies – the world’s largest equine sculptures, standing at 100ft high – to raise funds for World Horse Welfare.

The Kelpie sculpture in which the aerial course has been created is modelled on World Horse Welfare Baron, an 18.1hh Clydesdale gelding we rescued in 2000. Baron went on to be rehomed by Glasgow City Council and became quite a celebrity pulling a dray with his fellow Kelpie Duke in Pollok Country Park.

Amongst those who took part in the fundraising challenge were our field officers John Burns and Leanne McPake, who respond to welfare concerns across Scotland. “It was a brilliant day out with World Horse Welfare,” says John. “It was great to meet so many people who had travelled the length and breadth of the UK to take part in climbing the iconic Kelpies to raise vital funds for horses in need.”

“What an adventure!” adds Leanne. “It was an extraordinary experience within the majestic Kelpies, made extra special being able to share it with our dedicated and inspiring World Horse Welfare supporters.”

The event was organised by our Senior Supporter Services Officer, Kelly Clark, who says: “I’m thrilled our first-ever Kelpies Experience has gone so well – it is a huge challenge so we weren’t quite sure how many of our supporters would want to tackle it! Everyone had a brilliant day and it’s been such a success that we’re hoping to run it again next year. We’re delighted that the event has raised thousands so far and I’d like to say a huge thank you to each and every one of the fantastic fundraisers who took on this epic challenge to help horses.”

The Kelpies Experience sees climbers braving floating steps, crossing cable bridges and tackling a series of ladders to reach the mouth of one of the Kelpies. After admiring the stunning views, participants then descend by abseiling down inside the sculpture or taking an exhilarating ‘Quick Flight’ rope drop – a breathtaking freefall experience.

Anyone interested in taking part in a similar event next year can sign up to hear more by emailing supporterfundraising@worldhorsewelfare.org.