Callum McNay is one of three Moffat Scouts fundraising to go to the World Scout Jamboree in West Virginia, USA next year.
And to help raise £4000 for the trip, his dad, Alistair, is currently running the West Highland Way Race.
Setting off at 1 am, competitors have until noon on Sunday – 35 hours – to complete the distance.
Alistair is, however, hoping to complete the route in around 20 to 22 hours.
All race competitors are vetted for adequate relevant experience before being put forward to a ballot and since the race inception in 1985 only 1173 people have successfully completed the race.
The ‘prize’ for finishing is an engraved crystal goblet, which Ali hopes to secure.
Meanwhile, son Callum will follow in his footsteps later this year when he attempts to walk the West Highland Way during the school holidays.
He will be joined by his mum Carol, who is the Cub leader in Moffat.
The West Highland Way (WHW) is a long distance footpath running from Milngavie north of Glasgow to Fort William. It’s 95 miles long with 14,500ft of climb.
Callum is planning to complete the walk in nine days camping along the route.
Speaking about his mega challenge, dad Ali said: “I’ve been running since I was ten. I started on the track, progressed to road and then to trail/hill races.
“Only recently have I moved into ultras, having been inspired by watching a friend, not just run but, race the WHW while I was part of his support crew.
“The first time I crewed I said never, the second time I thought maybe.
“I’ve now run both the other ultra races on the route which cover the top half, The Devil of the Highlands Foot Race, and the bottom half, The Highland Fling, so unfortunately now know the course.”
He added: “My first aim for the race will be to complete, then I’ll try and aim for under 24 hours – at the very least I want to use my hotel room I’ve paid for, but I’d also settle for just arriving in time for breakfast, although I’m not sure my support crew will be quite so happy.”
To sponsor the McNays, visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/callum-mcnay-wsj
