On 27 September 2026, Shelley McCarthy of the NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation (NHS TCF) and Roy O’Kane of Kanzen for Life will go head-to-head in the Discovery Mast Climb Challenge.

The duo will scale the iconic masts of Captain Scott’s famous research ship to see who can clock the fastest ascent, all in aid of raising vital funds for healthcare innovation across Tayside.

The “rivalry” between McCarthy and O’Kane has already sparked interest across the city’s third sector, but the organisers are now throwing down the gauntlet to the wider Dundee business community. Local companies, emergency services, and hospital departments are being challenged to enter their own teams and settle their own “office grudges” 100 feet above the River Tay.

To support local participation, NHS TCF has announced that it will waive the entry fee for any individual or team who commits to a fundraising goal of £500. This incentive is designed to encourage local businesses to engage in high-impact charitable giving while taking on an unforgettable team-building experience.

Shelley McCarthy, NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, said: “The Discovery is a symbol of Dundee’s grit and innovation—two things we see every day in our local NHS. While Roy might think he has the edge, I’m ready to prove that the Foundation team has the head for heights. By offering to cover the entry fee for those hitting the £500 target, we want to make it as easy as possible for the community to get involved and support the ‘extras’ that make a world of difference to patients in our wards.”

Roy O’Kane, Kanzen for Life, added: “Kanzen is all about building resilience and community spirit, so the Mast Climb is the perfect challenge. It’s a bit of friendly competition for a very serious cause. I’m looking forward to seeing which other Dundee businesses are brave enough to join us on the rigging and help us hit those vital fundraising targets!”

The event aims to raise significant funds for NHS TCF, which recently highlighted a £7.8 million demand for health and wellbeing projects across the region. Funds raised from the climb will support everything from cutting-edge medical research to enhanced patient comfort and community care initiatives like the Hospital Discharge Project.

Event Details:
    • What: The Discovery Mast Climb Challenge
    • Where: RRS Discovery, Discovery Quay, Dundee
    • When: 27 September 2026
    • The Offer: Entry fee covered by NHS TCF for those with a £500 fundraising goal.
    • How to Enter: Register a team or individual spot here.

Registration is now open, with limited slots available for the timed climbs.

The Scottish Housing News Charity Spotlight feature highlights the vital work of charities across Scotland each Friday. To include your local charity, whether housing-related or not, send your story and images to us at newsdesk@scottishnews.com.