Business Details
11 Years
experience
Expert Event Management for Races, Treks & Bespoke Challenges
Breaking Strain is an event management company headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, with a global operational footprint. Since 2015, we have specialised in designing and delivering high-impact races, corporate and charity challenges, overseas treks, and bespoke adventure events. Our ISO 9001:2015 certification underscores our commitment to quality, while our 'take only photographs, leave only footprints' policy reflects our dedication to sustainability.With expertise in risk assessment, logistical planning, and safety management, we cater to charities, corporate groups, and individual adventurers seeking unique challenges. Our team combines decades of experience in emergency services, endurance racing, and expedition planning to ensure every event meets exacting standards of safety, accessibility, and participant satisfaction.
Services
Trail Running Events
Charity Treks
Corporate Challenges
Bespoke Event Planning
Safety Consultancy
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- ISO 9001:2015 certified for quality management systems
- Awarded gold for Resource Efficiency Pledge by Zero Waste Scotland
- 15+ years combined experience in event management and emergency services
- Specialise in accessible events for diverse fitness and ability levels
- Proven track record raising 2.5 million for charity partners
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001:2015
What people say
Excellent organisation
Supportive community
Well-marked routes
Inclusive policies
Scenic locations
Services
Trail Running Events
We organise trail running events including Run the Blades and Run the Borders. These races feature professionally marked routes, safety support, and inclusive policies. Participants access chip timing, first aid cover, and custom goody bags. Our events cater to all abilities with distances from 10K to 109K, including wheelchair-accessible options and relay formats.
Charity Treks
Our charity treks support causes through guided expeditions to iconic locations. We provide logistical support, risk assessments, and safety personnel for challenges like Arctic treks and Kilimanjaro climbs. Participants receive pre-event training resources while charities benefit from discounted entry bundles and fundraising partnerships.
Bespoke Event Planning
We create tailored adventure events for corporate teams and private groups. Services include route planning, safety audits, and logistical coordination. Our ISO-certified processes ensure compliance with local regulations while delivering unique experiences in remote locations worldwide.
Safety Consultancy
We provide safety expertise for film productions and large-scale events. Our services include risk assessments, operational planning, and on-site safety advisors. Clients benefit from our team's emergency services backgrounds and experience supporting major productions at venues like Murrayfield Stadium.
Corporate Challenges
Our corporate challenges combine adventure with team development. Offerings include multi-day treks, relay races, and custom-built events. We handle all logistical aspects while incorporating corporate branding opportunities and ensuring accessibility for diverse participant abilities.
People
Lee
Co-founder & Managing Director
Specialises in cold weather endurance racing with six years in the British Armed Forces and 15 years in Scottish Fire and Rescue. Led Arctic treks and Kilimanjaro summits. Combines operational expertise with event management.
Garry
Co-founder
Risk management expert with 19 years in Scottish Fire and Rescue. Ultra-runner and cyclist with extensive logistical planning experience. Focuses on safety protocols and event sustainability.
Nicole
Events Manager
Coordinates event logistics and participant support. Ensures compliance with accessibility standards and manages charity partnerships across global expeditions.
Questions
Do you offer charity fundraising support?
Yes, we partner with charities through discounted ticket bundles and fundraising partnerships. Our events have raised £2.5 million for causes since 2015.
Are your events accessible for disabled participants?
Yes, we make reasonable adjustments including wheelchair-accessible routes, guide runner provisions, and accessible changing facilities at major events.
What safety measures are in place?
All events have first aiders, GPS tracking for long-distance races, and comprehensive risk assessments. Our team includes former emergency service professionals.
Can I change race distances?
Yes, up to 14 days before the event. Moving to a longer distance incurs additional fees but downgrades receive no refunds due to administrative costs.
What's included in race entry fees?
Chip timing, live results, first aid cover, safety equipment, and a finisher's goody bag with medal. Specific inclusions vary by event distance.
Do you offer event volunteering opportunities?
Yes, volunteers receive free entries to other events. We require crew for checkpoints, route support, and event village operations during major races.