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‘The highlight was the finish’ Abertay professor completes coast-to-coast challenge

Steve celebrates the end of his epic challenge.
Steve celebrates the end of his epic challenge.

Paddling to the shore at Broughty Ferry beach, a university fundraiser completed his three-day triathlon-style challenge across Scotland.

Abertay University’s vice-principal Professor Steve Olivier kayaked, cycled and swam his way from Dunstaffnage Castle on the west coast to Broughty Ferry Castle.

Steve tackled freezing loch swims and kayaked through rushing waterfalls as part of his gruelling challenge and on Wednesday a welcoming party met him at the beach which also included a friendly seal.

Afterwards he said it was a relief to be back on dry land and mercifully close to his home.

Steve said: “It is as much a mental challenge as much as a physical one. The final day was a bit tough.

“The best thing was that my friend Harvey the seal popped up just this side of the Tay Bridge.

“I see him a lot around Broughty Ferry beach and seeing him seriously lifted me a bit. The highlight of the trip for me was reaching the finish.”

The three-day charitable adventure has so far raised £1,500 towards supporting student sport at Abertay University by sending an elite student athlete for expert coaching, studying and training overseas.

Along with helper Nick Hamilton, a retired member of Abertay University staff, Steve camped out two nights of the trip.

Keen mountaineer Nick also researched the route, investigated the tides and prepared food during his journey.

Much happier when on the water, Steve said cycling was the hardest part, especially while battling potholes and lorries on the road just after Crieff.

He said: “I have been really lucky with the weather. The first night was lashing rain but since then it hasn’t rained at all.

“I am really pleased with the amount of money raised which is at £1,500, so we will be able to send a student somewhere overseas.

“Abertay University is about creative opportunities and this is another way of doing that.”

Principal Nigel Seaton said: “This was a heroic effort by Steve on behalf of international travel and engagement for students.

“All his colleagues admire what he has done and the physical and mental effort it took.”

To contribute to the fundraising effort, visit www.justgiving.com/Steve-Olivier-Challenge.