On 10th May 2026, I’ll be taking on the Etape Caledonia, an 85‑mile cycling challenge around Pitlochry, in memory of one of my oldest and closest friends, David Owen.

David passed away after a short illness on 8th September 2025, and it still feels incredibly hard to accept. We’d known each other since our days at Lockerbie Academy and stayed close ever since, but our friendship deepened even further when I joined him at the business he built, Owen Farm Services. David was a determined and driven businessman, and I was proud to work alongside him for ten years. A decade of graft, laughter, problem‑solving, and the kind of everyday moments that quietly shape a friendship for life.

Above everything else, David was a devoted father to Callum and Eilidh. They were the centre of his world, and he was endlessly proud of them. With the blessing of his partner Maggie and his children, I’m raising funds in his honour.

Sport was always our shared language. We spent countless hours watching football together or messaging each other through every twist of the season. He even managed to get me onto the curling rink, which says everything about his enthusiasm and his ability to bring people along for the ride. And when the Tour de France came around, especially in the years when British riders like Mark Cavendish were flying, David followed every stage with absolute devotion.

I’m raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK. A charity working tirelessly to support people and families facing this devastating disease. Pancreatic cancer is incredibly hard to diagnose early, and many people only find out once the illness is already advanced. Because of this, too many lives are cut short within just a few months of diagnosis. Pancreatic Cancer UK is committed to changing that through research, expert nursing support, and campaigning for earlier detection and better care.

Taking on 85 miles will be a real challenge, but every mile will be for David. For the friend I grew up with, worked alongside, and shared so much of life with. If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, it would mean the world. Your support will help fund vital work and honour David in a way he’d be proud of.

Thank you for reading, and for helping me celebrate my friend’s life.