The Microsoft UK Challenge will take place in Ayrshire and on the Isle of Arran from 7th to 11th June 2006. This will be the first time that the event has been held in Scotland and for four action packed and inspiring days over 800 business executives from 125 of the UK’s leading businesses will be competing in teams while collectively raising £500,000 for leading children’s charity, the NSPCC.
The event is specifically designed to test stamina, strength, intelligence and core teams skills and the competitors will be pushed to the limit in tasks which could include kayaking, abseiling, mountain biking and code breaking. Although fitness is an advantage, strategy is of equal importance and the event is renowned for developing key skills transferable into a business environment.
The Microsoft UK Challenge is a unique opportunity to showcase Scotland, particularly Ayrshire and Arran, to some of the UK’s most inspiring business leaders. The event will be broadcast by Channel Four and Sky Sports and syndicated by networks across Europe, USA, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. It’s a terrific opportunity for Scotland to publicise itself as an adventure sports destination and competitors will take part in challenges throughout the region including Ayr, the Galloway Forest Park, Arran and Culzean. The winning teams will go through to the World Team Challenge taking place in Malta in December.
Investment from Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire and EventScotland has secured this unique event for Ayrshire with the wider partnership involved of South Ayrshire Council, North Ayrshire Council, VisitScotland, Forestry Commission Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland providing support to ensure the event is a success.
The Microsoft UK Challenge will showcase the exciting activities and stunning scenery that visitors to the area can experience. Not only does this help put Ayrshire on the map as an ideal location for business events, it also reinforces the area’s position as an excellent gateway to other parts of the country, with our excellent air, rail and road networks.”
More information on Microsoft UK Challenge can be found at www.challengerworld.com.
Karen Leithead, External Relations Executive, Tel: 01750 23818, Email: Karen.Leithead@visitscotland.com.
