Archie Whitfield takes on 250-mile stadium run across Scotland in memory of his dad

A former York City youth player has laced up his running shoes once again – this time to take on a mammoth 250-mile stadium run challenge across all 12 Scottish Premiership football stadiums, all to raise money for The Brain Charity in memory of his late father.

23-year-old Archie Whitfield, from Thirsk in North Yorkshire, set off from Aberdeen FC’s Pittodrie Stadium on Saturday 16 August and will end his journey at Rugby Park, home of Kilmarnock FC, on Saturday 23 August. He’s aiming to cover the full 250-mile stadium run route in just one week.

It’s not the first time Archie has put himself through the physical and emotional wringer for the cause. Back in April, he completed an 835-mile run across all 20 Premier League grounds in 25 days, finishing up with the London Marathon. His combined goal is to raise £100,000 for The Brain Charity, in tribute to his dad Dave, who died in December 2023 after living with Cushing’s disease caused by a pituitary brain tumour.

Archie, who now works as a chef, has already raised over £23,000 and has been made a Fundraising Ambassador for the charity. Speaking at the start of his latest journey, he said:

“My dad was a massive part of my life. Whether he was working as a teacher, a councillor or just being a great dad, he was always doing things to help other people. I wanted to do something that honours that, and brings people together through football and community.

He was a huge Arsenal fan, and I think he’d find this all a bit mad – but I know he’d be proud.”

Archie is planning to stop at iconic stadiums including Celtic Park, Ibrox and Tynecastle as he makes his way across Scotland, and he’s invited supporters to join him on parts of the run as he goes.

Amy Trego from The Brain Charity said:

“Archie’s challenges are an incredible way to honour his dad and shine a light on how brain conditions affect families. He’s been an inspiration to us all and we’re so proud to have him as our Fundraising Ambassador. The money he’s raising will go directly to helping more people at a time when they need it most.”

To follow Archie’s journey and support his mission to raise £100,000, visit the Brain Charity website.

Read more about Liverpool charities join forces for Land’s End to Liverpool bike ride to tackle poverty here.

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