Neil’s SIXTREME Challenge: 6 Ultramarathons. 6 Days. 1 Industry Worth Fighting For.

This summer, Neil Barker, Chair of The Drinks Trust and a lifelong champion of the hospitality world, is taking on a challenge as tough and spirited as the industry he loves. To mark The Drinks Trust’s 140th anniversary, Neil will run six ultramarathons in six days, covering over 170 miles across Scotland.

Starting at the Hendrick’s Gin Palace in Girvan on 27 July, and finishing in North Berwick at Fringe by the Sea on 1 August, Neil will run 28.3 miles every day, further than a marathon, to shine a light on the people who keep hospitality alive.

For Neil, this is personal: “Hospitality has shaped so much of my life,” he says. “It brings people together, creates memories, and opens doors for so many young careers. But right now, the people behind it need our support.”

The funds raised will go directly to The Drinks Trust’s vital work: helping hospitality workers facing financial hardship, mental health challenges, barriers to employment, and supporting the next generation entering the sector.

To support this incredible challenge, an auction has been launched, hosting incredible prizes, helping to raise even more funds for people working across the drinks industry.

The exclusive auction prizes have been donated by a range of partners in the hospitality industry. Lots include stays at iconic properties including Turnberry and Gleneagles; unique golf breaks; experiences at forthcoming Scotland Rugby games and a VIP experience at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

In a world’s first, Hendrick’s legendary head distiller, Lesley Gracie has created an exclusive bottling to commemorate The Drinks Trust 140th anniversary and the SIXTREME challenge. Hendrick’s Ecosse, distilled from botanicals found along the SIXTREME route in Scotland; pine needles, birchwood, douglas fir, spruce and brambles. Only 14 bottles will ever be produced, and all of these will be auctioned individually.

You can bid in the SIXTREME auction HERE