Scottish Walker Aims to be First to Cross US in Kilt, Driven by World Cup Dream
A dedicated Tartan Army fan has reached the monumental halfway point of an extraordinary 3,000-mile trek across the United States, with the promise of a nice cold pint and the prospect of watching Scotland compete in the World Cup fuelling his incredible journey. Craig Ferguson, aged 22, embarked on his ambitious challenge from Santa Monica pier in Los Angeles on 22 February, marking the 1,500-mile milestone in Kansas on 21 April. His ultimate destination is Boston, Massachusetts, where he hopes to arrive before Scotland's opening World Cup fixture against Haiti.
Personal Sacrifice and Charitable Mission
Mr Ferguson, hailing from Paisley, resigned from his job at Nando's to undertake this remarkable feat, aiming to become the first person ever to walk across the US entirely in a kilt. Beyond personal achievement, his endeavour seeks to raise £1 million for Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH), having already accumulated just under £112,000. This current challenge follows a previous endurance walk from Glasgow to Munich in 2024, undertaken to coincide with the Euros and raise awareness for men's mental health.
Reflecting on reaching the midway point after more than 50 gruelling days, Mr Ferguson told the Press Association: "It's a huge milestone to be honest. It's been extremely difficult getting to here. It has taken so much effort and perseverance, but I'm continuing to get the head down after such a long time, and I'm celebrating the fact I'm halfway there."
Overcoming Challenges with Positive Mindset
He added: "The biggest thing is thinking positively. I'm trying to count downwards rather than upwards now that I'm at the halfway mark, knowing that the horizon at Boston is firmly in my sights." The journey has presented significant challenges, including harsh and unpredictable weather conditions. Mr Ferguson recounted a particularly unusual experience in Kansas, a state notorious for its severe weather: "You see a lot of strange things walking across any country. In America, I've met a few characters, and for the most part people have been so friendly and supportive. It's these interactions along the way that continue to motivate me and keep me going. Seeing a tornado coming through Kansas and trying to avoid it was a strange one."
Essential Support from Lifelong Friend
Crucially, Mr Ferguson has been supported throughout by his best friend, Matthew Allan, whom he has known since primary school. Mr Allan drives a support vehicle, providing essential food, water, rest, and constant encouragement. "Matt asked me at the end of last year, if Scotland qualify, would I do another walking challenge like the one I did in Munich," Mr Ferguson explained. "I said yes, but told him that with the scale of America I'd need support, and without hesitation he said he's sold. He dropped everything, quit his job, and joined me on this challenge of a lifetime. It wouldn't be possible without him."
Motivation Rooted in Football and History
When asked about his unwavering motivation despite the gruelling conditions, Mr Ferguson cited his desire "to experience the World Cup, enjoying it like any other fan. As soon as I arrive at the end goal, I switch from being a walker to a Scotland fan who's there to witness the World Cup." He also highlighted the personal promise of "a nice cold pint at the end, and the promise I've made myself that I'm going to be the first man in history to walk the entire length of America in a kilt."
He concluded: "It's not just me I'm doing this for. It's every person that buys into it and donates to it. I wouldn't want to let anyone down. It's the support from people and their donations that really keeps the flame alive." Regarding Scotland's prospects at the World Cup, Mr Ferguson remains characteristically optimistic. "It goes without saying, seeing as I'm walking across the entirety of America to watch the World Cup, that I'm an optimistic fan," he stated. "I feel we've finally got that big major tournament monkey off our backs now. I'm confident we can kick on. I think that's the case – if it's not this group of players, it's never!"
