Our charity is delighted to announce that the Robert Irvine Foundation will be our Cateran Yomp headline sponsor for 2027-2029.
World-renowned chef and restauranteur Robert Irvine, who leads the Foundation, is a veteran of the British Armed Forces, having joined the Royal Navy aged 15 as a cook. An avid supporter of the Yomp, Robert joined us last year as the Executive Head Chef, a role he will reprise for his 13th visit in 2027.
A longstanding supporter of the ABF, Robert will be joined by almost 100 US veterans from the Foundation at next year’s event, which is taking place 5th – 6th June 2027. Robert is also serving again as the Executive Head Chef, a role he took up in 2026 as part of his strengthened commitment to the ABF.
Over 1,500 civilians, soldiers and veterans from the UK and around the world are expected to gather in Scotland to march along the scenic but challenging terrain of the Cateran Trail. Many will walk through the night to complete the full course, so having the right nutrition and fuel is essential.
Originally from Salisbury, Robert is well-used to “feeding an army”, having joined the Royal Navy aged 15 as a cook. The author and restauranteur previously was the host of US Food Network’s hit show Restaurant: Impossible, where he helped restaurateurs turn their businesses around. Since settling in the US, he’s remained a dedicated champion of the military in his adopted country. Most recently, Robert has been working with the US Army to revamp the food served to troops, providing them with healthy and delicious meals.
“The Cateran Yomp is one of my favourite dates on the calendar,” Irvine said. “The stunning scenery of the Scottish countryside is always worth the trip, but the conversations with veterans are what keep me coming back every year. British and American troops are more than allies on paper; we are brothers in arms and the Yomp only strengthens that bond.
“I started my involvement with the Yomp some years ago as a participant, before moving into a more official capacity with the Robert Irvine Foundation, which will sponsor 100 participants. This year, my role evolves yet again. As the official Executive Head Chef of the Yomp, I’m honoured and thrilled to take on the challenge. The menu is still being developed in collaboration with the other chefs, but it will be something special that truly reflects the experience.”
Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, said:
“We are delighted that Robert Irvine, and his Foundation, are strengthening their longstanding commitment to soldiers, veterans and their families through sponsoring the ABF’s flagship event, the Cateran Yomp. The support we receive from our partners and participants is vital and helps ensure that soldiers, former soldiers, and their families have the opportunity to avoid hardship and enjoy independence and dignity.
“Robert and his team have tackled this event for years, and we’re honoured once again to have their strength, passion, and expertise behind this year’s challenge.”
To find out more about the Cateran Yomp and sign up, visit our website here.