https://www.entrycentral.com/HughMcKenzieTrailRaces

This August marks the 5th anniversary of the passing of my brother Hugh.

Hugh was a magnetic force of life, full of cheeky jokes and could chat away with anyone. His energy and enthusiasm were unlike anything I’d ever seen, always eager to be on the go. He showed compassion and care for his family and friends in how highly he talked of them. Hugh’s 19 years with us were far too short, but they touched so many people.

Sports were a huge part of Hugh’s life and journey. He loved football, playing with Point FC and United, and of course, had his second family within SRAC. Hugh’s time with the running club was an incredibly prominent part of his life. Cross Country was his favourite season, and he loved running through the grounds, surrounded by the beauty of our island along the Creed. Even when we moved to Edinburgh for a short period, Hugh continued his involvement with SRAC, and it was during that period that he was a key role in the Falkirk race, where he worked as a team with his close friends to win the Team Gold medal in 2015.

Running is an effective way to improve mental health as it releases endorphins, reduces stress and anxiety, improves mood, and boosts self-esteem. Running with a team or partner provides additional mental health benefits. It creates a sense of camaraderie, social support, and accountability, leading to increased motivation and commitment. Teamwork also fosters a sense of belonging and connection, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

That’s why, to remember Hugh this year, SRAC and I have teamed up to organise a fundraiser run to celebrate our memories with him and raise money for our local mental health charity, WIAMH. The Western Isles Association for Mental Health is a local charity helping people struggling with their mental health via their Catch 23 Support Services. The race will take place on Saturday the 26th of August, in the form of a 6km trail race, running in the ground where he loved and found great peace in nature. It will feature a relay component, enabling teams of three to sign up and complete a 2km segment, symbolising Hugh's accomplishments alongside his SRAC teammates in their relay races. Our goal is to create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, where everyone can partake, enjoy the company of friends in the peaceful setting of the grounds, and take a moment to remember lost loved ones, particularly our Hugh.