Winners of 2025 Speyside Challenge announced

The annual challenge invites people to log either the number of journeys they make or the total distance covered on the upgraded active travel route between Craigellachie and Cragganmore.  

The event is part of the Speyside Low Carbon Hub project, which promotes healthier, more sustainable travel in the region and is in its fourth year.

Bill Malcolm was the winner in the walking category for most journeys logging 87 trips alongside his dog, Rio.  

In the walking distance category, Marie Third, a previous winner in 2023, walked a total of 346.19km to claim first place.  

In the cycling categories, Pippa Weir logged the most journeys with 32, while Iain Rattray, also a previous participant and winner, topped the leaderboard for cycling distance, travelling 1,768km.  

A special prize draw recognised participants who completed at least ten journeys and uploaded at least one photo of their efforts – Sue Brodie was the winner in this category, receiving a £500 voucher to spend at Skedaddle Speyside in Fochabers.  

Moray Council Leader Cllr Kathleen Robertson said: “It’s fantastic to see so many people taking part in the Speyside Challenge again this year. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by participants really highlights the benefits of active travel - not just for the environment, but for our health and wellbeing too. Congratulations to all of the winners, and to everyone who took part.” 

Cllr Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development & Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “The Speyside Challenge is a great example of how investment in active travel routes can create lasting impact in our communities. It’s not just about the winners, it’s about building a culture of sustainable travel and connecting people to the incredible landscapes we have here in Moray.” 

The Speyside Low Carbon Hub project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Transport Scotland and the Low Carbon Travel and Transport Challenge Fund.