Tartan Army walker Craig Ferguson reaches milestone in trek across US for mental health charity

A Scotland fan has reached New York amid a more than 3,000-mile trek across the US to raise funds for a mental health charity before the World Cup.

Craig Ferguson, who walked from Glasgow to Munich for the Men’s Euros in 2024, has been walking from Los Angeles to Boston to raise £1m for SAMH.

The total journey will see the 22-year-old cross 18 states, averaging a marathon a day for 104 consecutive days – timed to arrive in Boston on June 14 for Scotland’s game against Haiti.

He set off from Santa Monica Pier in California on February 24, wearing his kilt.

Craig Ferguson has been walking from Los Angeles to Boston. Supplied

In 2024, he walked for 37 days, covering 1,000 miles from Glasgow to Munich to cheer on Scotland’s football team for the Euros.

Now he has arrived in New York after walking almost 3,000 miles and has raised £300,000.

He has around 300 miles left to go until Boston.

He told STV News: “It was never going to be easy, but coming to places like New York gives you a second wind, gives you a burst.

“It’s like the end of a marathon when you’re in the last few miles.

“I’m definitely feeling it and just need to remember how close we are to that finish line.”

Hazel McIlwraith, director of fundraising and major appeals at SAMH, said: “Craig’s determination and resilience throughout the Tartan Trek have been truly remarkable. To walk more than 3,000 miles across the United States while raising vital funds and awareness for mental health is an extraordinary achievement.

“Not only has Craig raised an incredible £300,000 for SAMH so far, but he has also inspired thousands of people through his openness, courage and commitment to breaking down stigma around mental health.

“With less than 300 miles to go until he reaches Boston, we’re urging people across Scotland and beyond to get behind Craig for this final stretch. Every donation will help us continue providing life-changing mental health support to people who need it most.”

To support Craig’s Tartan Trek, visit: www.thetartantrek.co.uk

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.