Super Steve Smashes another Challenge: The Ring of Stirling!

Steve Riddiough, our IT Technician at Boulby, has once again proven his incredible determination and endurance by completing one of the toughest run/swim challenges in the UK – The Ring of Stirling. This remarkable feat, which only three other individuals have completed, involves a gruelling 55km loop that includes more than 5,600 meters of climbing and descending over ten mountains, and a total of 3.5km of swimming across five lochs, one of which is a sea estuary. Remarkably, two of the swims were done in the dark.

Steve and his friend, Danny Braun, are the first to complete the challenge On-Sight, with no prior knowledge of the route, and unsupported, carrying all their gear themselves. They completed the challenge in an impressive time of 27 hours and 47 minutes. Their attempt has been ratified by sending their GPS route recording to the official organiser, and their names now appear on the website roll of honour.

Left to right – Danny Braun and Steve Riddiough during the challenge

This accomplishment adds to Steve’s impressive list of achievements. Last year, he completed the Cateran Yomp with his colleagues to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance and the Army Benevolent Fund. Steve’s latest endeavour, however, was undertaken purely for the thrill of the challenge and to test his limits.

Steve and Danny have now completed all three of the main Run/Swim challenges in the UK, which include The Ring of Stirling, the Frog Graham Round, and the Puddle Buckley Round – A Snowdonian Run/Swim Adventure. Their dedication and perseverance are truly inspiring.

A special mention to Danny, who despite a near-miss incident where he almost descended the fells, kept going and captured incredible footage throughout the journey. Their adventure was not just a physical challenge, but also a tribute to the late triathlete Chris Stirling, for whom the Ring of Stirling is named.

Congratulations, Steve! Your determination and spirit are commendable, and your achievements continue to inspire those around you. We look forward to seeing what amazing challenges you will conquer next.