SCIAF’s Mark cycles to work – all 77 miles!

SCIAF's Director of Integram Human Development, Mark Camburn, decided to dust down his trusty two wheels for Cycle to Work Day – only problem was he lives in East Lothian and works in Glasgow city centre!

Mark set off at 3am for a day in the office and was joined by his colleagues along the way – and still made it in for his first meeting.

Although not a regular cyclist Mark did used to play rugby at international level for Bolivia – his residency there making him eligible for call up.

Mark said:

“The cycle was a ridiculous idea – and a huge challenge for me. The adrenaline was pumping at 3am, with the excitement of what was to come. But the reality really sunk in as the sun came up, and I realised how far we had to go. My eyes were as heavy as my legs!”

Mark’s route took him from Drem, along the coastal road to Edinburgh, Linlithgow, Falkirk, Kilsyth, Kirkintilloch, through Bishopbriggs and into Glasgow. In 2012 Mark bought a bike through the ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme, but never managed to do the trip before now.

Mark said:

“It’s only taken me 13 years but I got there! For me, getting to the office in time to start a full day’s work was key – that was the whole point of the cycle. And honestly, despite a few yawns, I managed to get quite a bit done and yes I did have a shower!  I cheated a wee bit – I did get the train home.”

At Kirkintilloch, Mark was met by his colleagues including Lorraine Currie, SCIAF’s chief executive – complete with morning rolls.

“At Kirkintilloch, a group of fellow SCIAF staff met us to take us over the finish line – and our lovely chief executive brought some breakfast to spur us on. That gesture made all the difference, and seeing the Glasgow skyline appear as we completed those final few miles down the canal was such a huge relief.  

“While I was cycling, I was thinking about the challenges families face in the communities SCIAF works. In places like Malawi and Ethiopia, women and girls spend hours every single day walking miles and miles just to collect water. In Gaza and Ukraine, where SCIAF are providing emergency relief, the challenges they face every day are incomprehensible. It really put things into perspective for me.

“The target for the fundraiser was £1000, and I’m delighted we smashed this. The money will go towards SCIAF’s current appeal, which focuses on the work we do with people with disabilities – helping them access the care they need, and the tools and training they need to thrive.  

“Thank you to everyone who sponsored us – it was the encouragement I needed to keep the pedals turning! We still need more donations to our current appeal, however, so we can reach as many people as possible. The need is so high, so anything you can do to help will make a big difference.”