By DAVID COULTER

Last updated at 09:42, Monday, 20 August 2012

IN a multi-discipline sporting event which would test the most elite athletes, a Hexham man is aiming at climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest twice over.

Ian McAuslan (31) will take part in a five-day non-stop expedition adventure race, the Stirling Sting, which will take in a gruelling distance of 620km over the Scottish highlands.

To raise money for the Royal British Legion, McAuslan and three friends will be fell running, mountain biking, canoeing, orienteering and trekking, ascending over 19,000m which is the equivalent of climbing Everest twice.

As well as the personal challenge, the group of friends who all have a military link, wanted to raise money for the organisation close to their hearts.

All competition costs have been met by the gang, with all donations received going directly to the Legion.

McAuslan said: “Our team is made up from serving or ex-serving members of the Army; all have been to Afghanistan and know friends and colleagues that have been killed or wounded.

“I used to serve with 19th Regiment RA, (The Highland Gunners) and 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery and am trying to raise as much money as I can for this great charity.

“It's going to be one massive challenge as it's a non-stop race with only 40 teams competing, so we will be pushing ourselves to the limit.

“Over half of the teams contain professional athletes, however, it will be our first expedition adventure race.

“If we are lucky, we hope to get about four hours sleep per night, but that will depend on our navigation and ability to cope with the elements!”

Anyone wishing to sponsor the team should visit www.justgiving.com/adventureracingrookies.

First published at 09:04, Monday, 20 August 2012
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk