In conclusion:
This was easily my best ever Challenge. Phil puts this all down to me walking with an excellent companion and I cannot argue with him. I would especially like to thank Phil for tripping over Sainsbury's ramp in Glasgow and for having a dreadful cold for the first nine days of the Challenge. Without this combination he would have walked me off my feet.
Best piece of gear?
- Winner by a mile - my Paramo Velez jacket (my second now) sensationally well made, incredibly comfortable and infinitely adjustable for wildly different weather conditions.
- Next best? Anquet maps print outs saving a huge 2lbs in weight.
Best luxuries?
- The pillow and the down jacket - worth every ounce!
In reality, all my gear performed excellently and I would not leave home leaving any of it behind.
Highlights of the trip?
- Schadenfreude
- Lundavra
- The morning walk from Loch Eilde Mor to Loch Chiarain Bothy
- Dirc Mhor day
- Glen Tromie to Braemar.
- Stan's
- Tarfside
Lowpoints of the trip?
- None
Helpful tips to prospective Challengers
- If it looks like a big day ahead, get up early and finish when you are ready to. Never walk when you are exhausted.
- Do not be a slave to the clock - Time should be measured by how you feel.
- Always be prepared to change your route if it all gets too much. It's a holiday!
- Take care of your feet. Most Challengers who drop out do so because of blisters. Have at least two or three 'boot breaks' a day - with feet drying in the air, socks re-fluffed.
- Always, always call Challenge Control when you are supposed to, if you want to do the walk again!
