This Saturday evening the Munro Mission team will be holding a short reception in Edinburgh for some of their supporters and we would like to take this oppoprtunity to invite YOU to come along!
This will be a great opportunity to hear some of the stories that didn't make it onto the blog and to meet the team and to quiz them on the last couple of months.
The event is by invitation only but there are a few spaces left so if you are interested in attending then please send an email to decaidmunromission@live.co.uk or call 07746 746 726 and we can send you some more details.
All are welcome and it is free to attend but places are very limited so get in touch early to avoid disappointment!
Thursday 22 September 2011
Wednesday 21 September 2011
The day after...
After a wonderful nights sleep in the holiday cottage at Crask the team were up and out by 0700 to get back on the road. First, Henry Snell took the team about 3 hours south to the Inver Hotel where his parents Sue and Chris Snell very kindly cooked the team a delicious brunch. The team were at the hotel just over a month ago during week 2 of the Mission when they stayed a night during one of the toughest parts of the Mission. Tom and Alex were therefore very satisfied to be sitting down to a delicious cooked breakfast knowing that they had now completed all 283 Munros within the 49 day target!
Next was a stop at the BLESMA care home in Crieff for a lovely lunch. Last week Hazel, the manager at the home very kindly sent the team a wonderful goody box containing hand knitted socks, and lots of chocolate and sweets to keep the team going up the final few Munros. Ceri, Tom, Rachel, James and Lucy then went on to visit Jimmy Sinclair the oldest surviving Desert Rat at his home in Kirkcaldy. Jimmy is 'only 99 years old' and was so inspiring to talk to. He told all kinds of stories and showed pictures of when he was a Desert Rat. He has also written some wonderful poems including one entitled 'Afghanistan'.
Next was a stop at the BLESMA care home in Crieff for a lovely lunch. Last week Hazel, the manager at the home very kindly sent the team a wonderful goody box containing hand knitted socks, and lots of chocolate and sweets to keep the team going up the final few Munros. Ceri, Tom, Rachel, James and Lucy then went on to visit Jimmy Sinclair the oldest surviving Desert Rat at his home in Kirkcaldy. Jimmy is 'only 99 years old' and was so inspiring to talk to. He told all kinds of stories and showed pictures of when he was a Desert Rat. He has also written some wonderful poems including one entitled 'Afghanistan'.
Tuesday 20 September 2011
Day 49 - The FINAL Munros
Sunday 18th September
48 days...6 hours...56 minutes - The Munro Mission is complete! Tom O'Connell (24) and Alex Robinson (21) have climbed all 283 Scottish Munros in just 49 days with absolutely no motorised transport.
The climb of Ben Hope was made even more special as Ceri rejoined the team for the last Munro of The Mission. Furthermore, his wife Jo and daughter Ceri had made the journey up to be with the team when they reached the top which meant a great deal to Ceri. It was incredibly important that Ceri be with everyone on the summit, despite the fact that he was still in quite a bit of foot pain.
At exactly 1530 on Sunday the 18th of September, Tom, Alex, Ceri, Jo, Alice, Lewis, Tom Elliott, Rachel Mander, Nick Cheshire, Gerry Lakey, Lucy and Becky reached joined everyone else on the summit of Ben Hope, the 283rd Munro to be climbed during The Mission. It was an incredibly special moment and those already on the summit applauded as the team approached the cairn. Tom and Alex placed their posies on the top of the cairn of Ben Hope, which had been dedicated to all future casualties of the conflict in Afghanistan. Various photos were taken in the mist as can be seen below.
The The DecAid Munro Mission team with supporters and Ceri's family on the summit of Ben Hope
The group then made their last descent of the Mission and were able to take some more photographs altogether when the mist had subsided slightly.
The DecAid Munro Mission team and supporters on the way back down Ben Hope; the last Munro on the DecAid Munro Mission
The day began at 0500 when the support team woke Tom and Alex up for the last time at their camping spot at the foot of Ben Klibreck just on the road south of Altnaharra. They had fallen asleep to the familiar sound of rain beating against the side of the tent and unfortunately it had not eased off by the time they awoke! The last morning was a bit of a disappointment for Alex, who had described his feelings on the last night as similar to excitement felt on Christmas Eve! The reality was a little less rosy for him as Ben Klibreck was particularly challenging due to hard navigation and boggy conditions, and took the team 4 1/2 hours to climb, a little longer than scheduled. Ben Klibreck was dedicated to the Royal Veterinary Corps and sponsored by VION FOOD GROUP UK with the message "The sacrifices made by our Armed Forces must always be remembered".
It was really fantastic for the team to have so many supporters to wish them well up the final Munros. Lt. Col. Nick Cheshire, Lucy and Becky headed up the penultimate Munro with the climbers, whilst media members Sophie and James, Rachel Mander, photographer Henry Snell, Tom Elliott, James Fish, Sarah Keane and Ceri's wife and daughter Jo and Alice waited for them at the bottom. The team were then greeted with egg banjos courtesy of Training Major at EUOTC Gerry Lakey.
They team were certainly not let off lightly on their last day as they were met with horizontal rain on the final road cycle of the Mission. It took them an hour to cycle the 20k distance from the base of Ben Klibreck to the base of Ben Hope, their 283rd Munro. Also in the team of well wishers and supporters was Rupert Laing's father and their lovely dog Bumble. Mr Laing, accompanied by Sarah and Sophie, headed off to the base of Ben Hope ahead of the others to allow themselves a more leisurely ascent! Also ahead of the team were Roger Green and a friend from Nitewatches who met them at the top. Nitewatches was a sponsor of The Mission and very kindly sponsored Ben Hope.
The weather had turned just before Mr Laing, Sophie and Sarah set off, and didn't improve as they gained height. Long -limbed Henry Snell bounded to the summit ahead of the rest of the team which was greatly appreciated in the thick cloud as he was able to help guide the team to the top. Also at the top before the climbers were James Fish and the aunt of Captain Andrew Griffiths, making for a very healthy welcome party.
The climb of Ben Hope was made even more special as Ceri rejoined the team for the last Munro of The Mission. Furthermore, his wife Jo and daughter Ceri had made the journey up to be with the team when they reached the top which meant a great deal to Ceri. It was incredibly important that Ceri be with everyone on the summit, despite the fact that he was still in quite a bit of foot pain.
Tom and Alex shower each other in Champagne to celebrate reaching their last summit on The Mission, whilst Ceri and Becky hold the DecAid flag.
The The DecAid Munro Mission team with supporters and Ceri's family on the summit of Ben Hope
The boys sprayed each other with champagne before Lt. Col. Nick Cheshire said some very fitting words regarding the motivation for the challenge and paid tribute to all who have given their lives in the conflict.
The group then made their last descent of the Mission and were able to take some more photographs altogether when the mist had subsided slightly.
Once at the bottom everyone was whisked away to Crask Inn where Sarah had worked her magic again and organised for the group to have a lovely dinner and stay in the Inn's cottage just across the road. After a delicious meal, the team launched chinese lanterns as a final tribute to all those men and women killed in action in Afghanistan over the last decade.
End of day 49 - 283 Munros climbed
Monday 19 September 2011
Day 48
Saturday, 17th September 2011.
Starting at 10am felt like a massive lie in for the team, who have been getting up at 4am most mornings this week. The support team had cycled in the bikes to the camp so Alex and Tom could begin their penultimate day promptly.
After bacon rolls, courtesy of the EUOTC Training Major, Gerry Lakey, the boys commenced a very long road bike north towards Inchnadamph.
They climbed 2 Munros - Ben More Assynt and Convial - both dedicated to the SAS and sponsored by Lieutenant Colonel Simon Brewis. This included a very craggy and long ridge walk, but Tom and Alex were joined by Henry Snell, Lucy, James Fish and Nick which helped to keep them motivated.
In the afternoon, Tom and Alex embarked on a 74km cycle to the foot of Ben Kilbreck – tomorrow’s penultimate Munro – where a camp was ready to provide some shelter in the pouring rain.
End of Day 4 - 281 Munros climbed
Day 47
Friday 16th September 2011
The team are in really good spirits – knowing that they are only two days from finishing is a huge boost, but they can’t imagine how they are going to settle back in to normal life!
Tom and Alex were joined on their 6 Munro climbs by Becky, Nick Cheshire and Lucy. It was really wet and windy but good paths meant that, to the surprise of the support team, they arrived 15 minutes ahead of schedule.
They were greeted at the camp by their ever expanding ‘support team family’, which tonight included Tom Elliot and James Fish.
Day 46 – Dinner for two?
Thursday, 15th September 2011
The team have been pushing themselves really hard in this final week - 4am starts are starting to seem normal - but Alex and Tom remain determined as ever.
On Thursday, the team climbed 7 Munros.
If that wasn’t tiring enough, there was a 25km cycle at the end of the day.
Earlier in the day, the support team had met Andrew Mathefon and his son Alex. They welcomed everyone to their farmhouse where they could dry their boots on the AGA, have a warm shower, and do some washing. This was such a luxury after spending the last 5 nights in wild camps!
The Mathefon’s kindness didn’t stop there! Alex Mathefon runs an food export business, and asked the Munro Mission team to be the face of a new cereal snack. Lots of pictures were taken, while Alex M stocked the team up with food.
In the evening, members of the support team hosted a reception at the Ben Wyvis Hotel, located just outside of Inverness. Guests included Nite Watches, local landowners and bereaved families.
A wild camp was set up at the foot of Ben Wyvis. Lewis didn’t want Alex and Tom to feel left out as the support team enjoyed the reception, so he set up a dining table for the boys to welcome them after their long cycle!
End of Day 4
Friday 16 September 2011
Day 45 – In honour of the Royal Engineers
Wednesday, 14th September 2011.
The boys were allowed to leave a bit later at 0940 as they only got to sleep at 0400! The support team observed that they were not in a good way this morning; understandably they were absolutely shattered and anxious of the day ahead.
It was meant to be a shorter day but they didn’t get in until 1230, after climbing 9 Munros in honour of the Royal Engineers: A’ Chailleach, Sgurr Breac, Sgurr nan Each, Sgurr nan Clach Geala, Meal a’ Chrasgaidh, Sgurr Mor, Beinn Liath Mhor Fannaich, Meall Gorm (kindly sponsored by Sir Hugh Stucley) and An Coileachan which was dedicated to Sgt Andrew James Jones, and sponsored by Foot Anstey.
When they returned, Tom and Alex were in really good spirits, to the surprise and admiration of the support team!! They were graced with amazing views all day and better weather.
The Commanding Officer of Exeter University OTC (EUOTC), Lieutenant Colonel Nick Cheshire, Lucy and Henry Snell set up a wild camp on the saddle of a hill. Nick put out a line of glow sticks to point the boys in the right direction as they were coming down the hill. They were later joined by Gerry Lakey, the Training Major at EUOTC.
The whole team then settled down to a wonderful beef stew courtesy of Ceri’s wife Jo – it is really great to have expanded the support team and for the boys to have such great company cheering them for the last few days of the mission.
End of Day 45 – 271 Munros completed. As the team climb the final 12 Munros in Scotland, please show your support by encouraging donations to http://www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/decaidmunromission
Day 44 – 24 gruelling hours
Tuesday 13th September 2011
Tuesday was a really tough day for the team; the climbs were exhausting and they suffered a few frustrating set-backs. Even though Tom and Alex are only 5 days away from finishing, it is days such as these where the ambitiousness of the challenge manifests itself.
It was a five hour walk between the first two Munros, Slioch and Beinn Tarsuinn which were both dedicated to the Royal Military Police. Their progress was slowed down by lots of big river crossings as the burns were so swollen.
The support team recced a big river crossing near the wild camp and decided that it was far too dangerous to attempt; Becky tried to go across using a rope but there were far too many under currents to stay standing up. The team had to walk 6 km up to the Loch to cross over the river. Alex and Tom came back to camp at 0230 after a 24 hour day very delirious and exhausted.
Becky and her sister Katie went to meet team whilst Lucy and Lewis cooked supper. When Tom and Alex got back, the whole support team helped them to get themselves and their kit dry.
Tom said it was “one of the hardest days we have ever had”; the wind and rain was relentless.
They were really grateful to have Steve, an outdoor instructor, with them on such a tough day. Yet, despite such a testing day, Tom and Alex remained focused, and completed a further 7 scheduled Munros!
Sgurr Ban and Mullach Coire Mhic Fhearchair, both dedicated to the Royal Military Police, the latter of which was sponsored by Nick Cheshire.
They powered on to climb 5 Munros in honour of the Royal Engineers: Beinn a’ Chlaidheimh, A’ Mhaighdean, Ruadh Stac Mor, Sgurr Fiona (An Teallach), sponsored by Anthony Laing and Bidein a’ Ghlas Thuill
The boys have put themselves under enormous pressure, but are driven by their sense of indebtedness to those who have made far greater sacrifices while serving in Afghanistan over the last 10 years. We all need to give support to British Forces and their families. All money raised will go directly to service charities SAAFA Forces Help and BLESMA. Please encourage donations to: http://www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/decaidmunromission
End of Day 44: 262 Munros completed.
Wednesday 14 September 2011
Blog update imminent!
Sorry for the delay in updating the blog - the team are in a wildcamp and currently have no signal to send their report. Also, the tracker doesn't seem to be working, but they are still all fine! The blog will be updated ASAP...watch this space!
Tuesday 13 September 2011
Day 43 – the team are uplifted by visitors
Monday, 12th September 2011
After a very heavy night's sleep in Torridon Hostel, the team were up at 0340 to ensure they left by 0500, ready for the long day ahead, and still on top form. They had heard the reports of bad weather heading from the west to hit North West Scotland, so they started early to try and get as much done as possible.
Becky and James Boggis (a university friend of Tom's) joined Tom and Alex for the short 15 minute cycle to the foot of Tom na Gruagaich, dedicated to Cpl Jonathan Moore - Royal Regiment of Scotland, and sponsored by Fiona Laing. The next Munro Sgurr Mor, was dedicated to Corporal Thomas Mason, Royal Regiment of Scotland. They climbed these Munros in record time; helped by a good path at the end which was excellent for running down.
Lewis and Lucy then met them with their road bikes and a hot chocolate at the bottom at around 0945. It was then a short cycle to the bottom of the next two Munros - Mullach an Raithain and Spidean a’ Choire Leith, both dedicated to the Royal Corps of Signals. There they were met by Mrs. Whitelaw whose son was tragically killed in action and Lynsey Houston the partner of Lance Corporal Joe Pool who was also lost his life in Afghanistan last year. The team very much enjoyed meeting them, as the Munro dedications embody the incentive of the mission. Graham from Skye Hi also came to meet the team and to join them for the rest of the day - he and his wife were also with the team last week. The team was very grateful for some extra navigation help: the Torridon area is home to some of Scotland’s toughest Munros.
It was very wet all the way up and back and very slippery under foot, especially on the rock. Alex had a wonderful time sliding down on his bottom until he got very close to some crags. His life flashed before his eyes as he was faced with a rather nasty drop and very little way of braking. He managed to steer away just in time!
Becky and Lucy then went to meet the team as they came off the 4th Munro to swap positions with James and Tom Elliott. The team then continued up Ruadh-stac Mor, also for the Royal Signals, and Spidean Coire nan Clach, in honour of the Royal Military Police. Despite the weather there were some stuinning views including some spectaular waterfalls. The rivers and waterfalls are absolutely gushing up here; there is a huge amount of water around at the moment.
After a lot of scrambling and climbing up scree the team made it up Ruadh-stac Mor ahead of schedule. They managed to stay up high on the ridge along to the next one without losing much height but it still had its scrambles!
Then it was back down to the road for a last 7km bike ride back to a bunkhouse in Kinlochewe. Tom and Alex really enjoyed a little cycle to loosen off their muscles.A good sausage casserole supper was then enjoyed by all after warming up with a shower and some dry clothes.
There is less than a week to go now. The team are really pushing themselves for the final stretch. Please help us reach our fundraising target for 2 fantastic charities to recognise the huge sacrifices our troops have made over the last 10 years in Afghanistan, and donate here: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/decaidmunromission.
End of Day 43 - 253 Munros climbed. £33,210.44 raised.
Monday 12 September 2011
Day 42 – One fateful week remains!
Sunday, 11th September 2011.
After an amazing full English breakfast cooked by Sarah the team, joined by Becky and Lucy for the second day running, were raring to go for a day of cycling and climbing a total of 3 Munros.
The team faced some pretty tough terrain on the first Munro of the day, Beinn Liath Mhor, dedicated to Corporal Jonathan Moore, Royal Regiment of Scotland, and soon got a bit behind schedule. Yesterday’s sun was long gone; it started raining on way up and didn't stop for the rest of the day, completely saturated the ground.
The second Munro, Sgorr Ruadh, dedicated to Royal Marine Sgt Paul Bartlett, proved a mental as well as a physical struggle. The team had to head back down, loosing height, in order to come up again. From then on, however, they managed to stick on a ridge and picked up some paths along the way.
Maol Chean-Dearg was dedicated to LCpl Jason Hashmi and Cpl Sarah Bryant, Intelligence Corps. Its sponsors Maureen and Des Feely left this message:
"In memory of our daughter Sarah Louise Bryant"
This Munro was a bit further away and the rain (perhaps the tail end of Hurricane Katia) got even worse. This route was very craggy; the team sad to do an uphill scramble up a scree filled gully. The bad weather and hard terrain slowed the sodden team down a lot. Yet morale remained high despite aching limbs.
The team were relieved to find a good path back down to road just outside Torridon, where they met the support vehicle with bikes. The support team went to leave and follow bikes a few km down to the hostel but found that the lights had been left on too long, leaving them with a flat battery! A quick jump start from some friendly passers by and all resumed to normal.
The team were back in the hostel for 1800 ready for a good shower, a good supper and an early night!
End of Day 42 – 247 Munros climbed, £32,590.44 raised. In the final week of the challenge please encourage donations to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/decaidmunromission
Day 41 – Here comes the sun…
Saturday, 10th September 2011
The team was awoken at 0600 to the sound of very heavy rain on the tent and a howling gale. Fortunately it soon passed but not soon enough as the support team battled with porridge on the stove and cups of tea for the boys in the howling wind!
Becky and Lucy joined Tom and Alex for the first two Munros: Lurg Mhor, dedicated to the Coldstream Guards, and Bidean a’ Choire Sheasgaich, in remembrance of Gdsm Neil 'Tony' Downes, Gdsm Daniel Probyn and Gdsm Simon Davison (Grenadier Guards). They found the climb very boggy, hard going and a steep incline from the camp. Alex and Tom felt the strain on their legs which were feeling very heavy, but they still managed to maintain a good pace all day, and even ran most of the route!
The next few Munros had been recce'd before so made it a lot easier and saved lots of time as they managed to remember some
short cuts. These Munros were dedicated to the Grenadier Guards.
Sgurr Choinnich was dedicated to Gdsm David Atherton and Gdsm Daryl Hickey. Sponsors the Bourne Family left the following message: "We are proud to sponsor Sgurr Choinnich as a mark of our thanks to the admiration to these brave young people."
Sgurr a’ Chaorachain (Monar) was climbed in memory of Gdsm Jamie Janes and Munro Maoile Lunndaidh climbed in remembrance of WO1 Chant, Sgt Matthew Telford and Gdsm James 'Jimmy' Major.
Henry’s awesome navigating was also fundamental to the team’s progress. This was his last day with team. He has been an absolute hero (Alex’s words!!) at navigating team through some pretty tough days in awful weather!
The sun shone on the team for the final Munro, Moruisg, dedicated to LSgt Dave Greenhalgh, Grenadier Guards, revealing cracking views of next weeks route in the sun.
The support team was greeted with sunshine and smiles at the bike stop! The day was finished with a short cycle down to Gerrys Hostel.
End of Day 41 – 244 Munros climbed. The Mission has raised £32,590.44 so far. Please encourage donations to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/decaidmunromission
Saturday 10 September 2011
Day 40 - 'Chiller night'
Friday, 9th September 2011
It was a pretty chilly night in the stalkers shed even though the chiller was switched off! Nevertheless, the wonderful kitchen next door in the holiday cottage made sure the team enjoyed a very civilised breakfast in the morning at a kitchen table rather than the usual plastic bowl full of cereal out of the van!
They headed off on their roadbikes with Tom Elliott and Becky also on theirs. They headed down some very scenic lanes with breathtaking scenery. Unfortunately it was too dark appreciate their surroundings at that time of the morning, but they enjoyed a day of views once the sun had risen.
Both Alex and Tom are in good spirits but their limbs are really feeling it now. In the morning they climbed 4 munros: for two soldiers of the Mercian Regiment, the team climbed Sgurr na Ruaidhe, dedicated to Pte Jason Williams and Carn na Gobhar for Sgt Michael Lockett MC. They dedicated the two further munros: Sgurr a'Choire Ghlas and Sgurr Fuar-Thuill to Tpr Jack Sadler of the Honourable Artillery Company and Marine Stephen Birdsall respectively.
The support team met them with their lunch and the roadbikes, luckily on time: driving between the various rendezvous points takes frustratingly long due to the lack of direct roads!
After a quick pit stop and a short cycle down to a power station, the team headed on up Carn na Gobhar - in honour of the Irish Guards and Sgurr na Lapaich - in remembrance of Irish Guardsman LSgt Mark Burgan. For the Coldstream Guards they continued on to climb An Riabhachan - personally dedicated to LCpl James Hill and An Socach. It was an extremely long day especially as the terrain was so boggy and the weather very wet.
Meanwhile Lewis and Ceri drove Bonnie and Henry up to some sheilings for a wild camp. It was a particularly wild off road track which Ceri and Lewis negotiated very well, especially the very narrow bridges, which only just allowed the 4x4 to pass.
Becky and Lucy meanwhile headed up to a rendezvous point to meet the team as they came off the final munro. It was incredibly boggy so really it was very important that the support team recce'd a route back for them and negotiated a river crossing along the way. Fortunately there was a wire across the river!
The team finished much later than anticipated at 0230. Bonnie did a wonderful job cooking supper for the 5 of them when they came back. Sadly the team had to be up for a 0700 start (pushed back an hour after the late finish).
End of Day 40 - the team has now climbed 238 munros and have raised £32,577.75 for our two chosen service charities - BLESMA and SAAFA. As the team reach the final week of their challenge please encourage donations to the Virgin Money Giving Site.
It was a pretty chilly night in the stalkers shed even though the chiller was switched off! Nevertheless, the wonderful kitchen next door in the holiday cottage made sure the team enjoyed a very civilised breakfast in the morning at a kitchen table rather than the usual plastic bowl full of cereal out of the van!
They headed off on their roadbikes with Tom Elliott and Becky also on theirs. They headed down some very scenic lanes with breathtaking scenery. Unfortunately it was too dark appreciate their surroundings at that time of the morning, but they enjoyed a day of views once the sun had risen.
Both Alex and Tom are in good spirits but their limbs are really feeling it now. In the morning they climbed 4 munros: for two soldiers of the Mercian Regiment, the team climbed Sgurr na Ruaidhe, dedicated to Pte Jason Williams and Carn na Gobhar for Sgt Michael Lockett MC. They dedicated the two further munros: Sgurr a'Choire Ghlas and Sgurr Fuar-Thuill to Tpr Jack Sadler of the Honourable Artillery Company and Marine Stephen Birdsall respectively.
The support team met them with their lunch and the roadbikes, luckily on time: driving between the various rendezvous points takes frustratingly long due to the lack of direct roads!
After a quick pit stop and a short cycle down to a power station, the team headed on up Carn na Gobhar - in honour of the Irish Guards and Sgurr na Lapaich - in remembrance of Irish Guardsman LSgt Mark Burgan. For the Coldstream Guards they continued on to climb An Riabhachan - personally dedicated to LCpl James Hill and An Socach. It was an extremely long day especially as the terrain was so boggy and the weather very wet.
Meanwhile Lewis and Ceri drove Bonnie and Henry up to some sheilings for a wild camp. It was a particularly wild off road track which Ceri and Lewis negotiated very well, especially the very narrow bridges, which only just allowed the 4x4 to pass.
Becky and Lucy meanwhile headed up to a rendezvous point to meet the team as they came off the final munro. It was incredibly boggy so really it was very important that the support team recce'd a route back for them and negotiated a river crossing along the way. Fortunately there was a wire across the river!
The team finished much later than anticipated at 0230. Bonnie did a wonderful job cooking supper for the 5 of them when they came back. Sadly the team had to be up for a 0700 start (pushed back an hour after the late finish).
End of Day 40 - the team has now climbed 238 munros and have raised £32,577.75 for our two chosen service charities - BLESMA and SAAFA. As the team reach the final week of their challenge please encourage donations to the Virgin Money Giving Site.
Friday 9 September 2011
Day 39 Update - The team are 1 day ahead!
Thursday, 8th September 2011.
The team soared ahead of schedule today as they climbed 2 days worth of munros in one. As well as the 5 munros mentioned in the previous blog, the team also climbed 4 further munros in honour of the Mercian Regiment: A'Ghlas-bheinn - dedicated to Pte Douglas Niall Halliday and CSgt Martyn Horton, Sgurr nan Ceathreamhan - dedicated to Pte Thoman Sephton, An Socach - dedicated to Lt John Saderson and Rfn Remand Kulung, and An Soscach, as well as Beinn Fhada (Ben Attow) dedicated to Maring David Marsh.
That makes a total of 10 munros yesterday! This is an amazing achievement as they power on through the mission and on towards the finish line.
The team have now climbed 230 munros - only 53 to go! That's nothing, right?
The team soared ahead of schedule today as they climbed 2 days worth of munros in one. As well as the 5 munros mentioned in the previous blog, the team also climbed 4 further munros in honour of the Mercian Regiment: A'Ghlas-bheinn - dedicated to Pte Douglas Niall Halliday and CSgt Martyn Horton, Sgurr nan Ceathreamhan - dedicated to Pte Thoman Sephton, An Socach - dedicated to Lt John Saderson and Rfn Remand Kulung, and An Soscach, as well as Beinn Fhada (Ben Attow) dedicated to Maring David Marsh.
That makes a total of 10 munros yesterday! This is an amazing achievement as they power on through the mission and on towards the finish line.
The team have now climbed 230 munros - only 53 to go! That's nothing, right?
Day 39 – Silhouetted Stags and Curious Bulls
Thursday, 8th September 2011
Tom, Alex and Becky had a good day of climbing which started with a wonderful viewing of a stag silhouetted on the top of a hill in the morning sun. They were confronted with every type of weather too; rain, wind, sun and showers as they completed another five munros which were all dedicated to the Mercian Regiment: Beinn Flhionhlaidh, Carn Eighe, Mam Sodhail, Tom a’ Choinich and Toll Creagach. Benn Fhionhlaidh was climbed in honour of LCpl Paul Anthony Sandford and Drummer Thomas Wright and was sponsored by Bob Spencer of Risk Management UK who left the message: “Risk management UK is proud to sponsor DecAid in support of the Mercian Regiment. The sacrifices made by our Armed Forces must always be remembered. Bob Spencer MD”. Toll Creagach was dedicated to Private Brian Tunnicliffe and Carn Eighe was dedicated to Capt Sean Dolan.
The support team then headed down the off road track in the car next to the still very swollen river they passed yesterday and headed back to pick up the van and the trailor from a small car park at the bottom.
Lucy and sarah meanwhile managed to speak to the very nice estate stalker who offered us his shed to camp in and the use of a very plush kitchen in the holiday cottage next door. It is normally used as a chiller for the deer meat but the stalker very kindly turned off the chiller for us so that we weren't quite camping in a fridge!
They all arrived back at around 2230 for a quick chicken curry supper and into bed by midnight.
End of day 39 – 225 munros climbed
Thursday 8 September 2011
Day 38 - Morale is high!
Wednesday, 7th September 2011
A wonderful long sleep left everyone feeling rejuvenated and their kit toasty and dry after being hung over the fire overnight. The team left in really good spirits with Rob Keane after some really good porridge!
They headed off up Ciste Dhubh first, in honour of the Royal Gloucester, Wiltshire and Berkshire Regiment and then headed west to Aonach Meadhoin, Sgurr a Bhealaich Dheirg, Saileag, and Sgurr na Ciste Duibhe, which were dedicated to the Yorkshire Regiment.
They also climbed Sgurr na Carnach - dedicated to Cpl Harvey Holmes, Mercian Regiment and finally Sgurr Fhuaran for LCpl Alan David Cochran and Cpl Terry Webster, also from the Mercian Regiment.
After another very wet day, the team came into Glenlicht House, a bothy owned by The University of Edinburgh mountaineering society, bang on time at 1800. They were very wet but the support team got a good fire going and the kit is slowly drying out. They all enjoyed a delicious stir-fry supper.
The team is just 10 days away from completing the mission. Alex will be the youngest person to have climbed all the munros and it will be the 2nd quickest time ever!
Day 37 - Wet & Wild
Tuesday, 6th September 2011
After a very late 0200 finish on the bikes last night and a (hopefully) shorter day today the team decided to catch up on some sleep and start at 0900 this morning. Unfortunately the weather hadn't changed overnight and even a good nights sleep couldn't revive their spirits!
The day was ridiculously wet and extremely windy; it was very tough battling against the wind and the rain all day - even the best gortex couldn't cope! Alex was very nearly lifted off his feet and they were crawling along some of the route in order to stay out of the wind. The team came across some very swollen and flooding rivers.
Despite the weather, the 'munro hopping' continued. In honour of the Royal Welsh Regiment, the team scrambled across Carn Ghluasaid, Sgurr nan Conbhairea - dedicated to Private James Prosser, and Sail Chaorainn.
In memory of Pte Jonathan Monk and Pte John Brackpool of the Princess of Wales Regiment the team climbed Mullach Fraoch-choire. The journey across A’ Chralaig was dedicated to the Royal Gloucester, Wiltshire and Berkshire Regiment.
Meanwhile half of the support team trudged into the youth hostel at Alltbeithe (only accessible by a 3 hour walk from the nearest road) and set up camp. It was a really cosy building which was very eco friendly with wind and solar powered lights, two fires which heat the water for the shower and everything is recycled bar a couple of bags of rubbish a month!
The team arrived in well ahead of schedule at 1800 ahead of Sarah, Becky and Lucy who were still on their way with the rest of the kit and the supper (they had to pick Becky up from the station). The team made the most of the spare time and had a quick 2 hour kip! The support team arrived and unpacked. Sarah concocted a delicious paella style supper which apparently contained a mystery ingredient...it has never been revealed and we're not sure we want to know!
They were joined for supper by Rob Keane a friend of Cpl Terry Webster who planned to spend the day with the team the next day.
After supper the boys made straight for the bunk beds and managed to get a good 10 hour sleep in total - a first!
The team has now climbed 213 munros!
Thank you to Skye Hi Mountain Guides
As the team leave Skye, they would like to say another huge thank you to Graham and Annie Patterson at Skye Hi for their generosity and kindness in supporting the team throughout one of the most crucial and challenging times of the mission.
Graham was the team's guide on Skye, and his knowledge of the Cuillin Ridge was fundamental to the team's motivation and progress.
THANK YOU!
Tuesday 6 September 2011
Day 36 – Skye completed!
Monday 5th September 2011
They then hopped back on the bikes for a very long cycle off Skye, beyond Morvich and on to Ratagan where they will stay tonight at the youth hostel. They will be able to afford a later start tomorrow as they have completed the long cycle tonight. Tom and Alex are doing incredibly well.
The team have now successfully climbed 208 munros!Day 35 – Update: the toughest endurance test yet!
Sunday 4th September 2011
Once at Sligachan Tom, Alex and the support team met up with Graham Paterson and his wife Annie from Skye Hi Guides. Graham was extremely kind in June when he took the team up for a recce on the notoriously difficult and technical Cuillin ridge. He very kindly offered to help Tom and Alex again for the real challenge and will be spending two days with them completing the 12 munros on Skye. 11 are part of the ridge and then Bla Bheinn is on its own further east.
For the Royal Anglian Regiment they climbed Sgurr na Mhadaidh, Sgurr a’ Ghreadaidh - dedicated to Cpl Scott Hardy, and Sgurr Mhic Choinnich for the Royal Irish Regiment; all of which were sponsored by the Romsey Ladies.
The Hicks Family sponsored Sgurr na Banachdich, climbed in memory of Capt David Hicks, Royal Anglians.
Also for the Royal Irish Regiment, the team conquered munros Sgurr Alasdair, dedicated to Ranger Aaron McCormick and Sgurr Dubh Mor. Sgurr na Eag was climbed in honour of the Royal Welsh Regiment. The team also climbed Am Bastier, dedicated to Private John Thrumble of The Royal Artillery, and Bruach na Frithe for the Royal Anglian Regiment.
They climbed the notorious Inaccessible Pinnacle, sponsored by Karen Cummings, to commemorate Lance Corporal Paul Muirhead, Royal Irish Regiment.
At the top of Sgurr Nan Guillian the team had a sip of Speckled Hen ale which had been given in honour of Capt David Hicks, Royal Anglians.
Graham hardly ever does the ridge in one go and has never done or known anyone to do such a large chunk in the dark, so it really was a massive achievement and to keep going for 27 hours is pretty incredible! But the team were rewarded with the most amazing views and incredible sunsets along the way. They had a wonderful day although it was by far the toughest endurance test they have had so far.
When they arrived at Glen Brittle memorial hall (for walkers and mountaineers), Tom, Alex and Graham were fed pasta bolognese before climbing into bed. They got a good 6 hours sleep before being awoken at 1445 to climb Bla Bheinn. Meanwhile the support team spent time cleaning their vehicles, fixing bikes and sorting food supplies as well as accommodation for the next few days, and writing press releases for the local and national press on the team's achievements so far.
They have now completed over 200 munros!Monday 5 September 2011
The team reach Skye!
The Munro Mission team are now on the shore of the beautiful Isle of Skye. They were doing the Cuillin Ridge yesterday and continue to climb it today, but they have absolutely no signal and so we currently have no communications with them. But fear not. The climbers are in the very safe hand of Graham Paterson from Skye Hi guides so they are being well looked after! We shall have an update with them as soon as possible. Below is a photograph of Carbost where the team were last night.
Whilst the climbers have been doing their thing, the support team have had a day of cleaning vehicles, bicycles and sorting things out. No rest for them!
The team will now have climbed over 200 Munros! The end is in sight!
Sunday 4 September 2011
Day 34 – The boys celebrate Lewis’ birthday with 11 Munros!
Saturday 3rd September
What a day! The team were up and out this morning by 0500 with Henry Munns as navigator. It was pretty wet in the night and was pouring when they opened the barn door. However rain wouldn’t dampen the spirits of the team as it was support team member Lewis's 20th birthday! The day was incredibly long, with the guys on their feet for another 20 hours. But amazingly they are now back on track and have managed to catch up the whole day that they lost earlier on in The Mission. The team are in great spirits and are feeling really good. This has given them a massive boost and loads of confidence for the final 2 weeks. Henry did a great job navigating them over some tough Munros and they managed a total of 11 by the end of today.
The team climbed Garbh Chioch Mhor, Spidean Mialach and Creag a’ Mhaim , all dedicated to The Rifles. They then climbed Druim Shionnach which was dedicated to Marine Paul Warren of The Royal Marines. Aonach air Chrith was dedicated to Lance Corporal Darren John George of The Royal Anglian Regiment, and Maol Chinn Dearg was also dedicated to The Royal Anglian Regiment. Sgurr an Doire Leathain was dedicated to Lance Corporal George Davey of The Royal Anglian Regiment.
The next Munro, Sgurr an Lochain, was dedicated to Corporal Darren Bonner of The Royal Anglian Regiment. Tom Elliott had gone to meet his mother Christine Bonner at the foot of Sgurr an Lochain and take her up. It was pretty tough going all the way up and back and although it ended up being a long day for her, Christine was very pleased to be able to lay a plaque at the top of the Munro as well as a heather posy in honour of her son.
Creag nan Damh was also dedicated to the Royal Anglian Regiment, and Sgurr na Sgine was dedicated to Rifleman Stuart Nash and very kindly sponsored by Bill Nash and Region 3 UGLNSW & ACT. Lastly, The Saddle was dedicated to Corporal Stephen Thompson of The Rifles.
It was wet and cloudy all day but the guys kept a good pace. They also met some really nice people along the way who had heard of the Munro Mission and were very keen to get a photo of the team which they are going to try and get it in Trail magazine! Luckily the weather cleared towards the end of day and they managed to get into camp over 2 hrs early ready for support team member Lewis Ashton’s birthday! Sadly Lewis had to leave to pick Tom Elliott up so there was no time for birthday cake. But the team enjoyed a wonderful sausage and mash supper before hitting the hay at around 2200.
End of day 34 – 196 Munros climbed. They’re almost at the 200 Munros mark!
The team are now on the beautiful Isle of Skye. Below is a photo of the early morning sun on Skye this morning (Sunday), as the boys do a 4 hour cycle, approaching the Kyle of Lochalsh.
What a day! The team were up and out this morning by 0500 with Henry Munns as navigator. It was pretty wet in the night and was pouring when they opened the barn door. However rain wouldn’t dampen the spirits of the team as it was support team member Lewis's 20th birthday! The day was incredibly long, with the guys on their feet for another 20 hours. But amazingly they are now back on track and have managed to catch up the whole day that they lost earlier on in The Mission. The team are in great spirits and are feeling really good. This has given them a massive boost and loads of confidence for the final 2 weeks. Henry did a great job navigating them over some tough Munros and they managed a total of 11 by the end of today.
The team climbed Garbh Chioch Mhor, Spidean Mialach and Creag a’ Mhaim , all dedicated to The Rifles. They then climbed Druim Shionnach which was dedicated to Marine Paul Warren of The Royal Marines. Aonach air Chrith was dedicated to Lance Corporal Darren John George of The Royal Anglian Regiment, and Maol Chinn Dearg was also dedicated to The Royal Anglian Regiment. Sgurr an Doire Leathain was dedicated to Lance Corporal George Davey of The Royal Anglian Regiment.
The next Munro, Sgurr an Lochain, was dedicated to Corporal Darren Bonner of The Royal Anglian Regiment. Tom Elliott had gone to meet his mother Christine Bonner at the foot of Sgurr an Lochain and take her up. It was pretty tough going all the way up and back and although it ended up being a long day for her, Christine was very pleased to be able to lay a plaque at the top of the Munro as well as a heather posy in honour of her son.
Creag nan Damh was also dedicated to the Royal Anglian Regiment, and Sgurr na Sgine was dedicated to Rifleman Stuart Nash and very kindly sponsored by Bill Nash and Region 3 UGLNSW & ACT. Lastly, The Saddle was dedicated to Corporal Stephen Thompson of The Rifles.
It was wet and cloudy all day but the guys kept a good pace. They also met some really nice people along the way who had heard of the Munro Mission and were very keen to get a photo of the team which they are going to try and get it in Trail magazine! Luckily the weather cleared towards the end of day and they managed to get into camp over 2 hrs early ready for support team member Lewis Ashton’s birthday! Sadly Lewis had to leave to pick Tom Elliott up so there was no time for birthday cake. But the team enjoyed a wonderful sausage and mash supper before hitting the hay at around 2200.
End of day 34 – 196 Munros climbed. They’re almost at the 200 Munros mark!
The team are now on the beautiful Isle of Skye. Below is a photo of the early morning sun on Skye this morning (Sunday), as the boys do a 4 hour cycle, approaching the Kyle of Lochalsh.
Saturday 3 September 2011
Day 33 - Two boys and an inflatable canoe...
Friday 2nd September
The climbing team, consisting of Tom, Alex and Tom E bound through the barn door in great spirits on Friday night after another fantastic day in the hills. But today was actually a bit different as it started with a very short (inflatable) canoe across loch Hourn. It was 0645, the wind was blowing a gale, and the tide was coming in around the small island which was home to one of the Barrisdale Estate boat houses. Tom and Alex changed into waterproof gear, got their paddles and slipped the inflatable canoe (kindly lent by Rupert) into the water. It only took about 15 minutes for them to cross to the other side which was very lucky because the boat had a few holes in it which were only found at the last minute, and by the time they had got to shore it was looking pretty deflated on one side!
Chief navigator for the day Tom Elliott was very kindly taken across the water by Craig in his motorboat, as the little blow-up boat would never have made it with all 3 of them in it! Having made sure the team had all the correct kit for the day, Lewis and Lucy escorted all the night’s kit down the loch in Craig’s boat to Kinlochourn where the vehicles stayed overnight. Ceri also had a night of luxury at the B&B there. However Sarah was not happy as he had disobeyed strict instructions to rest and had instead renovated the inside of the van, hanging things up and tidying up!
The team had a good day and did lots more running meaning they arrived back in the evening 2 and a half hours early! Rosie, Emily and Lewis had managed to get mountain bikes up a very long track which took them 4 hrs and involved pushing them up scree and over the remnants of a land slide! But nevertheless the team were extremely grateful to be able to cycle down, thus saving them a lot of time. Today the team climbed Munros including Beinn Sgritheall dedicated to Rifleman Liam Maughan and Sgurr a’ Mhaoraich dedicated to Rifleman Daniel Holkham.
Tonight’s stop was in a small barn next to a lodge. Two lovely people named Duncan and Georgie were down from London and were staying in the lodge. They were very kind to the team, inviting them in for tea and letting them shower and wash up in their kitchen. So a very big thank you goes out to them for their kindness and hospitality! Everyone then had a quick supper (a variation on macoroni cheese made on a camp stove with a quick sip of beer donated by Georgie and Duncan) and were in bed by 2200. The photo below was taken from the team’s overnight stop.
The climbing team, consisting of Tom, Alex and Tom E bound through the barn door in great spirits on Friday night after another fantastic day in the hills. But today was actually a bit different as it started with a very short (inflatable) canoe across loch Hourn. It was 0645, the wind was blowing a gale, and the tide was coming in around the small island which was home to one of the Barrisdale Estate boat houses. Tom and Alex changed into waterproof gear, got their paddles and slipped the inflatable canoe (kindly lent by Rupert) into the water. It only took about 15 minutes for them to cross to the other side which was very lucky because the boat had a few holes in it which were only found at the last minute, and by the time they had got to shore it was looking pretty deflated on one side!
Chief navigator for the day Tom Elliott was very kindly taken across the water by Craig in his motorboat, as the little blow-up boat would never have made it with all 3 of them in it! Having made sure the team had all the correct kit for the day, Lewis and Lucy escorted all the night’s kit down the loch in Craig’s boat to Kinlochourn where the vehicles stayed overnight. Ceri also had a night of luxury at the B&B there. However Sarah was not happy as he had disobeyed strict instructions to rest and had instead renovated the inside of the van, hanging things up and tidying up!
The team had a good day and did lots more running meaning they arrived back in the evening 2 and a half hours early! Rosie, Emily and Lewis had managed to get mountain bikes up a very long track which took them 4 hrs and involved pushing them up scree and over the remnants of a land slide! But nevertheless the team were extremely grateful to be able to cycle down, thus saving them a lot of time. Today the team climbed Munros including Beinn Sgritheall dedicated to Rifleman Liam Maughan and Sgurr a’ Mhaoraich dedicated to Rifleman Daniel Holkham.
Tonight’s stop was in a small barn next to a lodge. Two lovely people named Duncan and Georgie were down from London and were staying in the lodge. They were very kind to the team, inviting them in for tea and letting them shower and wash up in their kitchen. So a very big thank you goes out to them for their kindness and hospitality! Everyone then had a quick supper (a variation on macoroni cheese made on a camp stove with a quick sip of beer donated by Georgie and Duncan) and were in bed by 2200. The photo below was taken from the team’s overnight stop.
Day 32 - Sarah works her magic....
Thursday 1st September
This morning the team left the wild camp at 0500 in the dark and headed straight up the first Munro of the day with Becky, Sgurr Mor. They then continued on to do 5 more Munros, all dedicated to The Rifles. Sgurr nan Coireachan, Garbh Chioch Mhor (dedicated to Rifleman Mark Marshall), Sgurr na Ciche, Meall Bhuidhe and Luinne Bheinn (dedicated to Corporal Richard Green).
As expected, both Alex and Tom were very tired today as they were climbing with so little sleep th night before. But luckily the team had a fantastic day made even better by the amazing views. There is something so satisfying looking out into the distance at the Munros you have already climbed... The day was also mostly dry which makes a massive difference, and the team enjoyed a lovely lunch stop, talking to some very friendly people who stopped to chat to them.
They are now joined by 2 new support team members; Emily and Rosie Leysham. Tom Elliott and Rosie headed up the final Munro, Ladhar Bheinn (dedicated to Rifleman Jonathan Allott), to meet the team and to lead them down. The Munros that the team have climbed over the past few days have been incredibly steep and much of the time has been spent scrambling up to the top. The team were due to finish on the Barrisdale Estate at the Bothy there. This area is one of the most remote in Scotland and so this meant a 2.5 hour walk in for the support team! Fortunately Sarah had managed to get a lift down the sea loch in a boat with all the kit so the rest of the support team just had to walk themselves out. There was a bit of a rush because this particular bothy is very popular and we needed space for 9! As the support team approached the bothy they met up with Sarah who announced that the bothy was full. As faces dropped at the thought of having to walk all the way back, Sarah said she'd worked her magic and managed to get them all into The White House, a little stalkers cottage with bunkbeds, a fully equipped kitchen and a generator for electricity!!
So the support team moved into the cottage, set up beds and made supper. Tom, Alex, Tom and Rosie arrived in an hour early much to the support team’s surprise and relief. Tom and Alex had had a fantastic day and spent much of it running to make up lost time! Where on earth does their energy come from?! It was such an achievement for them and they came back buzzing!
End of day 32 – 183 Munros climbed.
This morning the team left the wild camp at 0500 in the dark and headed straight up the first Munro of the day with Becky, Sgurr Mor. They then continued on to do 5 more Munros, all dedicated to The Rifles. Sgurr nan Coireachan, Garbh Chioch Mhor (dedicated to Rifleman Mark Marshall), Sgurr na Ciche, Meall Bhuidhe and Luinne Bheinn (dedicated to Corporal Richard Green).
As expected, both Alex and Tom were very tired today as they were climbing with so little sleep th night before. But luckily the team had a fantastic day made even better by the amazing views. There is something so satisfying looking out into the distance at the Munros you have already climbed... The day was also mostly dry which makes a massive difference, and the team enjoyed a lovely lunch stop, talking to some very friendly people who stopped to chat to them.
The River Kingie Valley near Loch Quoich
They are now joined by 2 new support team members; Emily and Rosie Leysham. Tom Elliott and Rosie headed up the final Munro, Ladhar Bheinn (dedicated to Rifleman Jonathan Allott), to meet the team and to lead them down. The Munros that the team have climbed over the past few days have been incredibly steep and much of the time has been spent scrambling up to the top. The team were due to finish on the Barrisdale Estate at the Bothy there. This area is one of the most remote in Scotland and so this meant a 2.5 hour walk in for the support team! Fortunately Sarah had managed to get a lift down the sea loch in a boat with all the kit so the rest of the support team just had to walk themselves out. There was a bit of a rush because this particular bothy is very popular and we needed space for 9! As the support team approached the bothy they met up with Sarah who announced that the bothy was full. As faces dropped at the thought of having to walk all the way back, Sarah said she'd worked her magic and managed to get them all into The White House, a little stalkers cottage with bunkbeds, a fully equipped kitchen and a generator for electricity!!
So the support team moved into the cottage, set up beds and made supper. Tom, Alex, Tom and Rosie arrived in an hour early much to the support team’s surprise and relief. Tom and Alex had had a fantastic day and spent much of it running to make up lost time! Where on earth does their energy come from?! It was such an achievement for them and they came back buzzing!
End of day 32 – 183 Munros climbed.
Day 31 - The boys go retro!
Wednesday 31st August
Today Stu navigated the first part of the day and then Becky took over later in the day to do the final couple of Munros. Meanwhile the support team administered a bike stop off and Char had a spectacular fall off one of the bikes which kept everyone amused! So too did the teams retro cycling attire which the support team had talked them into! Multicoloured lycra, and long golf socks...Tom and Alex looked a treat. It was a perfect day for it with a 20Km mountain bike ride and then a 35 Km road bike.
The support team, consisting of Lucy, James Fish and Tom Elliott walked in about 8 km to a wild camp with 3 tents for the team. Once the camp had been set up, Tom E went up the last Munro to mark out the route for Alex, Becky and Tom for when they came down so that they didn't miss the camp. The team were all in good spirits when they came off the hills but with only 4 hrs to sleep it was a quick chicken curry supper before they hit the hay for a very short kip.
All the Munros climbed today were dedicated to The Rifles. Gulvain was dedicated to Lance Corporal David Kirkness and Rifleman James Brown. This Munro was very kindly sponsored by Anthony Laing with the message "To everyone in the Rifles, we remain eternally grateful for your bravery and dedication in Afghanistan." They also climbed Sron a' Choire Gairbh, Gairich and Meal Na Teanga which was dedicated to Rifleman Aidan Howell.
The team would like to say a huge thank you to Lea Mcnally for his generosity in letting the team access tracks and for letting the support team stay in his cottage. Also thank you to Mike Pearson at the Tomdoun hotel for all his help with contacts. Below is a picture of the beautiful Tomdoun area that the team have been in.
Today Stu navigated the first part of the day and then Becky took over later in the day to do the final couple of Munros. Meanwhile the support team administered a bike stop off and Char had a spectacular fall off one of the bikes which kept everyone amused! So too did the teams retro cycling attire which the support team had talked them into! Multicoloured lycra, and long golf socks...Tom and Alex looked a treat. It was a perfect day for it with a 20Km mountain bike ride and then a 35 Km road bike.
The support team, consisting of Lucy, James Fish and Tom Elliott walked in about 8 km to a wild camp with 3 tents for the team. Once the camp had been set up, Tom E went up the last Munro to mark out the route for Alex, Becky and Tom for when they came down so that they didn't miss the camp. The team were all in good spirits when they came off the hills but with only 4 hrs to sleep it was a quick chicken curry supper before they hit the hay for a very short kip.
All the Munros climbed today were dedicated to The Rifles. Gulvain was dedicated to Lance Corporal David Kirkness and Rifleman James Brown. This Munro was very kindly sponsored by Anthony Laing with the message "To everyone in the Rifles, we remain eternally grateful for your bravery and dedication in Afghanistan." They also climbed Sron a' Choire Gairbh, Gairich and Meal Na Teanga which was dedicated to Rifleman Aidan Howell.
The team would like to say a huge thank you to Lea Mcnally for his generosity in letting the team access tracks and for letting the support team stay in his cottage. Also thank you to Mike Pearson at the Tomdoun hotel for all his help with contacts. Below is a picture of the beautiful Tomdoun area that the team have been in.
We are very sorry that the blogs have taken so long to appear over the last few days. The team have had very little signal and have had very busy days. But stay tuned!
End of day 31 - 176 Munros climbed
End of day 31 - 176 Munros climbed
Friday 2 September 2011
Day 30 - Ceri sees the doctor...
Tuesday 30th August
Today the team did an incredible 10 Munros, all dedicated to The Rifles. Binnein Beag (dedicated to Rifleman William Aldridge), Sgurr Eilde Mor (dedicated to Rifleman Daniel Hume) and Binnein Mor. Na Gruagaichean was dedicated to Captain Mark Hale and Rifleman Daniel Wild of The Rifles and sponsored by Graham Wilson with the message "For C Company, 2 Rifles".
They also climbed Stob Coire a’ Chairn, An Gearanach, Am Bodach, Sgurr a’ Mhaim, Stob Ban (dedicated to Rifleman Samuel John Bassett), and Mullach Nan Coirean (dedicated to Rifleman Andrew Fentiman)
The day started off with a panicked phone call to Sarah at the top of a Munro in the morning. Tom and Alex could see another Munro in the distance and were not due to climb it but were worried that they were meant to! However panic subsided when Sarah confirmed that it wasn't on the list for today. Support team member Stu has done a brilliant job of altering all the summit timings and some of the route which has cut out quite a bit of time. However, in this case he went a bit over the top and calculated that the team would summit a Munro 10 minutes earlier than their previous one, subsequently cutting an hour out instantly! Sarah meanwhile made hundreds of phone calls to landowners and stalkers in order to arrange bothys, barns and pony huts as accommodation for the next few weeks. With her Florence Nightingale hat on she then took Ceri to A&E in Fort William where he had his feet and back examined.
¾ hours later, Ceri had his verdict. He was concerned by potentially broken bones (especially in his left foot) but thankfully this was not the case. Due to soft tissue damage in his feet (similar to Plantar Fasciitis but slightly worse) caused by pounding of the feet, Ceri has been told by the consultant that he cannot walk for 3-4 weeks. He also has a bruised coxyx from falling off his bike. He explains that whilst incredibly keen to continue walking through the pain, Ceri ‘took one for the team’ to make sure that the challenge was still achievable. As one can expect, having to pull out of the climbing team and fall into the support team has been incredibly difficult for Ceri but he tells us that he’s through the worst emotionally. Whilst now being a new member of the support team, Ceri is doing his bit (including doing laundry!) but Sarah is calling the shots, making sure he is putting his feet up and having an ice bath on his feet every day!
The slightly diminished climbing team, now only consisting of Tom and Alex, spent lots of time trying to persuade Ceri that he should continue on with them but understand that with his injuries he needs to pull out. This has not deterred them though and they continue on with fighting spirit. The photo below is of the two of them on the summit of one of their 10 Munros at 1930. They finished the day at approximately 2330 at a wild camp, where Stu cooked them supper and looked after them.
Today the team did an incredible 10 Munros, all dedicated to The Rifles. Binnein Beag (dedicated to Rifleman William Aldridge), Sgurr Eilde Mor (dedicated to Rifleman Daniel Hume) and Binnein Mor. Na Gruagaichean was dedicated to Captain Mark Hale and Rifleman Daniel Wild of The Rifles and sponsored by Graham Wilson with the message "For C Company, 2 Rifles".
They also climbed Stob Coire a’ Chairn, An Gearanach, Am Bodach, Sgurr a’ Mhaim, Stob Ban (dedicated to Rifleman Samuel John Bassett), and Mullach Nan Coirean (dedicated to Rifleman Andrew Fentiman)
The day started off with a panicked phone call to Sarah at the top of a Munro in the morning. Tom and Alex could see another Munro in the distance and were not due to climb it but were worried that they were meant to! However panic subsided when Sarah confirmed that it wasn't on the list for today. Support team member Stu has done a brilliant job of altering all the summit timings and some of the route which has cut out quite a bit of time. However, in this case he went a bit over the top and calculated that the team would summit a Munro 10 minutes earlier than their previous one, subsequently cutting an hour out instantly! Sarah meanwhile made hundreds of phone calls to landowners and stalkers in order to arrange bothys, barns and pony huts as accommodation for the next few weeks. With her Florence Nightingale hat on she then took Ceri to A&E in Fort William where he had his feet and back examined.
¾ hours later, Ceri had his verdict. He was concerned by potentially broken bones (especially in his left foot) but thankfully this was not the case. Due to soft tissue damage in his feet (similar to Plantar Fasciitis but slightly worse) caused by pounding of the feet, Ceri has been told by the consultant that he cannot walk for 3-4 weeks. He also has a bruised coxyx from falling off his bike. He explains that whilst incredibly keen to continue walking through the pain, Ceri ‘took one for the team’ to make sure that the challenge was still achievable. As one can expect, having to pull out of the climbing team and fall into the support team has been incredibly difficult for Ceri but he tells us that he’s through the worst emotionally. Whilst now being a new member of the support team, Ceri is doing his bit (including doing laundry!) but Sarah is calling the shots, making sure he is putting his feet up and having an ice bath on his feet every day!
The slightly diminished climbing team, now only consisting of Tom and Alex, spent lots of time trying to persuade Ceri that he should continue on with them but understand that with his injuries he needs to pull out. This has not deterred them though and they continue on with fighting spirit. The photo below is of the two of them on the summit of one of their 10 Munros at 1930. They finished the day at approximately 2330 at a wild camp, where Stu cooked them supper and looked after them.
End of day 30 - 170 Munros climbed
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Sgurr a' Mhaim
Day 29 - A well earned McDonalds for the team!
Monday 29th August
Well rested after a good 8 hour sleep in the Kinlochleven AT centre and with a hearty full English/Scottish breakfast in their tummies, Tom and Alex set off at 0725 on their trusty road bikes.
The support team and navigators are trying very hard to change the route and timings so that the team are able to make up the time they lost by not being able to do the Aonach Eagach ridge on Sunday. They should hopefully be able to make up for it by the end of the week. They completed the ridge in record time yesterday due to some better weather conditions than expected. Stu and Becky are to be thanked for finding a good track up onto the ridge which saved them a lot of time. In fact they ended up being an hour ahead of schedule! The time managed to whizz by as Henry got them all into a big political debate about the educational system! Both Alex and Tom stopped off at the bike drop off at 1400 to refuel with snacks and water.
On they went; more miles and another 2 Munros which were climbed with support team members, Tom, Henry and James. Very boggy routes up and down but they managed to avoid the rain and even enjoyed a brief spell of sun at the top. Back down the hill on Mountain bikes which is always good fun...less fun for the support team who have to cycle them uphill! All the way back Tom and Alex were dreaming of the proposed stop at McDonalds in Fort William! They have been talking about this little detour for weeks so it was very lucky that they had time to do it! It was pretty amusing watching Alex cycle off with a McDonalds in one hand and trying to steer with the other!
Meanwhile the rest of the support team 'moved in' to the nights stop, the Youth Hostel in Fort William - luxury. Beds had to be made, clean clothes sorted and Sarah and Char cooked a hearty Irish Stew for supper. Ceri has got stuck into support team duties and very kindly offered to take 4 very large bags of washing to the laundrette, which certianly kept him occupied!
Alex and Tom arrived at the Youth Hostel nearly 2 hours ahead of schedule which is a record! It was time for showers and a very early nights sleep to prepare for the many wild camps and very long days over the next few weeks. As eyes started to droop over pudding the team were whisked away to bed for a very early night! Meanwhile the support team managed to completely take over the Youth Hostel dinning room by pouring over maps and making plans for the next few days.
The Munros climbed today were all dedicated to The Rifles. Meall Dearg was dedicated to Rifleman Jamie Gunn and very kindly sponsored by Alastair Rellie and Lucasta Cummings who left the the message "With great respect, affection and gratitude to the Rifles." Sgorr na Fiannaidh was dedicated to Rifleman Adrian Sheldon and Sgorr Dhearg (Beinn a' Bheithir) was dedicated to Rifleman Cyrus Thatcher.
The team are just passing the Commando Memorial near Spean Bridge. This photograph was taken when the team visited it a few months ago.
Well rested after a good 8 hour sleep in the Kinlochleven AT centre and with a hearty full English/Scottish breakfast in their tummies, Tom and Alex set off at 0725 on their trusty road bikes.
The support team and navigators are trying very hard to change the route and timings so that the team are able to make up the time they lost by not being able to do the Aonach Eagach ridge on Sunday. They should hopefully be able to make up for it by the end of the week. They completed the ridge in record time yesterday due to some better weather conditions than expected. Stu and Becky are to be thanked for finding a good track up onto the ridge which saved them a lot of time. In fact they ended up being an hour ahead of schedule! The time managed to whizz by as Henry got them all into a big political debate about the educational system! Both Alex and Tom stopped off at the bike drop off at 1400 to refuel with snacks and water.
On they went; more miles and another 2 Munros which were climbed with support team members, Tom, Henry and James. Very boggy routes up and down but they managed to avoid the rain and even enjoyed a brief spell of sun at the top. Back down the hill on Mountain bikes which is always good fun...less fun for the support team who have to cycle them uphill! All the way back Tom and Alex were dreaming of the proposed stop at McDonalds in Fort William! They have been talking about this little detour for weeks so it was very lucky that they had time to do it! It was pretty amusing watching Alex cycle off with a McDonalds in one hand and trying to steer with the other!
Meanwhile the rest of the support team 'moved in' to the nights stop, the Youth Hostel in Fort William - luxury. Beds had to be made, clean clothes sorted and Sarah and Char cooked a hearty Irish Stew for supper. Ceri has got stuck into support team duties and very kindly offered to take 4 very large bags of washing to the laundrette, which certianly kept him occupied!
Alex and Tom arrived at the Youth Hostel nearly 2 hours ahead of schedule which is a record! It was time for showers and a very early nights sleep to prepare for the many wild camps and very long days over the next few weeks. As eyes started to droop over pudding the team were whisked away to bed for a very early night! Meanwhile the support team managed to completely take over the Youth Hostel dinning room by pouring over maps and making plans for the next few days.
The Munros climbed today were all dedicated to The Rifles. Meall Dearg was dedicated to Rifleman Jamie Gunn and very kindly sponsored by Alastair Rellie and Lucasta Cummings who left the the message "With great respect, affection and gratitude to the Rifles." Sgorr na Fiannaidh was dedicated to Rifleman Adrian Sheldon and Sgorr Dhearg (Beinn a' Bheithir) was dedicated to Rifleman Cyrus Thatcher.
The team are just passing the Commando Memorial near Spean Bridge. This photograph was taken when the team visited it a few months ago.
Monday 29 August 2011
Day 28 - A wet and windy start
Sunday 28th August
The team were up at 0355 this morning and out on their bikes at 0500 for a very wet and windy cycle in the dark from the campsite at the Kingshouse Hotel, to the Glencoe Ski Centre. They were met by DecAid co-founder Rupert Laing, his sister Becky and friend Charles who had come all the way from Forres that morning, leaving at 0200! The team were delighted to also be joined by the Laing's spaniel Bumble. She looked less than impressed as she was pulled from her basket in the car and attached to her lead in the pouring rain, but I'm afraid the team had little sympathy for her! Rupert, Becky and Charles expertly navigated the team over Meall a Bhuiridh and Criese, two Munros which are very popular with mountain bikers in the summer, before heading back down to the road to meet the support team. Meall a Bhuiridh was dedicated to Sergeant Christopher John Reed of The Rifles.
The support team sent Alex, Ceri and Tom off on their road bikes along the A82 before collecting them back again a short way down the very exposed and windy road. Following behind them in the 4x4 it was clear that most of the teams energy was being used to stay upright as they battled against the elements! After refuelling with food and water the support team sent them on their way up Stob na Broige and Stob Dearg which was a particularly blustery walk, especially for poor Bumble! Both of the Munros were dedicated to The Rifles. Once at the top of the final Munro Rupert took himself off on a recce to see whether there was a shorter route back down to the road. After clambering down 100m of rock face and ripping his trousers in the process he decided to return to the team who were sensibly making their way down the well trodden footpath back to the road!
The team have now climbed nearly 160 Munros in just 28 days. Unfortunately Ceri announced yesterday that he has decided to temporarily join the support team. He has been suffering from an extremely painful back and his feet have been causing him a lot of problems recently. But he hopes to join the team again very soon once he has recovered.
If you are following the SPOT tracker then you will have noticed that the team have changed their routes quite a bit over the last few days. The Aonach Eagach Ridge can be particularly treacherous when it is very windy so the team decided to do it today instead which has temporarily pushed back timings. However, they are hoping to make up the lost time over the course of the week. If you are hoping to come and join the team then please e-mail decaidmunromission@live.co.uk if you would like us to confirm summit times for any of the Munros.
End of day 28 - 158 Munros climbed.
The team were up at 0355 this morning and out on their bikes at 0500 for a very wet and windy cycle in the dark from the campsite at the Kingshouse Hotel, to the Glencoe Ski Centre. They were met by DecAid co-founder Rupert Laing, his sister Becky and friend Charles who had come all the way from Forres that morning, leaving at 0200! The team were delighted to also be joined by the Laing's spaniel Bumble. She looked less than impressed as she was pulled from her basket in the car and attached to her lead in the pouring rain, but I'm afraid the team had little sympathy for her! Rupert, Becky and Charles expertly navigated the team over Meall a Bhuiridh and Criese, two Munros which are very popular with mountain bikers in the summer, before heading back down to the road to meet the support team. Meall a Bhuiridh was dedicated to Sergeant Christopher John Reed of The Rifles.
The support team sent Alex, Ceri and Tom off on their road bikes along the A82 before collecting them back again a short way down the very exposed and windy road. Following behind them in the 4x4 it was clear that most of the teams energy was being used to stay upright as they battled against the elements! After refuelling with food and water the support team sent them on their way up Stob na Broige and Stob Dearg which was a particularly blustery walk, especially for poor Bumble! Both of the Munros were dedicated to The Rifles. Once at the top of the final Munro Rupert took himself off on a recce to see whether there was a shorter route back down to the road. After clambering down 100m of rock face and ripping his trousers in the process he decided to return to the team who were sensibly making their way down the well trodden footpath back to the road!
The team have now climbed nearly 160 Munros in just 28 days. Unfortunately Ceri announced yesterday that he has decided to temporarily join the support team. He has been suffering from an extremely painful back and his feet have been causing him a lot of problems recently. But he hopes to join the team again very soon once he has recovered.
If you are following the SPOT tracker then you will have noticed that the team have changed their routes quite a bit over the last few days. The Aonach Eagach Ridge can be particularly treacherous when it is very windy so the team decided to do it today instead which has temporarily pushed back timings. However, they are hoping to make up the lost time over the course of the week. If you are hoping to come and join the team then please e-mail decaidmunromission@live.co.uk if you would like us to confirm summit times for any of the Munros.
End of day 28 - 158 Munros climbed.
Sunday 28 August 2011
Day 27 – Another toughie....
Saturday 27th August
Yesterday evening saw the team make a change of plan. They decided to call it a day when they passed their camp at about 2130 instead of continuing on to do the final Munro of the day, Ben Starav, which would have seen them get into bed at 0130. Instead they arose at 0330 this morning and started walking at 0400 after a quick snack. They returned for breakfast before going on to today's Munros. Beinn Fhionnlaidh (Glen Etive) was dedicated to Lance Bombardier Matthew Hatton and Sgor na H-ulaidh was dedicated to Bombardier Samuel Robinson and Lance Bombardier Mark Chandler, all from The Royal Artillery. Bidean nam Bian was dedicated to Captain Alex Eida from the Royal Horse Artillery. They also climbed Stob Coire Sgreamhach and all the Munros climbed today are all part of a particularly stunning section of the route and involve walking down a beautiful valley featured in the Munro Mission video on you tube.
Once the climbers were off, the support team had to head back up the boggy hill that the climbers had spent the night on, to collapse their tents and bring all their kit down. With such late nights and early mornings it has become a priority to make sure the support team are well rested to ensure they are on top form for when the team are back down at camp. They are therefore taking every possible opportunity to catch some shuteye. It has also been very wet here for the past 48 hours so they are on standby for another trip to the laundrette in Fort William (the only one for miles around!) when the team return. On Friday poor Charlotte got left at the laundrette all afternoon as the team ran out of vehicles to pick her up. The support team all felt very sorry for her until they found out that the owner of the laundrette had taken pity on her and given her a bath and taken her out for tea. She also mentioned a trip to the pub so she soon lost their sympathy!
Today was particularly long but considerably shorter after some expert rearranging by support team member Stu Buchan. He suggested the team didn't use mountain bikes for one particular part as it meant they would spend a lot of time losing and then regaining height. Instead he managed to find an alternative route which kept them as high as possible and cut numerous hours off the day. Stu navigated them to a rendezvous point at the foot of the last 2 Munros, Stob Dubh (Buchaile Etive Beag) and Stob Coire Raineach, where he handed over to Lucy at 2020. After a quick break to change socks, powder feet and eat some food, Tom, Ceri and Alex were ready to crack the final leg of the day.
The team were glad to have a good footpath up to the saddle in between the final 2 of the day which were done in the dark. The winds really started to pick up and by the time they reached the summit it really was quite blustery. The team could see the end of a very, very long day in sight and managed to get back down to the road in 3 hrs which was very good. They then met up with Stu and Becky who administered the change onto roadbikes. Becky set off with them for the 8km cycle into the camping spot at the Kingshouse Hotel however she got a puncture about 1 km from the tent and had to push her bike the rest of the way. Back at camp Sarah had a very warming bacon risotto waiting for everyone which was much appreciated. The team ate their supper in their sleeping bags and were asleep by 0100. However they were up at 0400 the next morning for another very long day....The team are doing very well but are looking forward to a decent night’s sleep!
End of day 27 - 154 Munros climbed
Yesterday evening saw the team make a change of plan. They decided to call it a day when they passed their camp at about 2130 instead of continuing on to do the final Munro of the day, Ben Starav, which would have seen them get into bed at 0130. Instead they arose at 0330 this morning and started walking at 0400 after a quick snack. They returned for breakfast before going on to today's Munros. Beinn Fhionnlaidh (Glen Etive) was dedicated to Lance Bombardier Matthew Hatton and Sgor na H-ulaidh was dedicated to Bombardier Samuel Robinson and Lance Bombardier Mark Chandler, all from The Royal Artillery. Bidean nam Bian was dedicated to Captain Alex Eida from the Royal Horse Artillery. They also climbed Stob Coire Sgreamhach and all the Munros climbed today are all part of a particularly stunning section of the route and involve walking down a beautiful valley featured in the Munro Mission video on you tube.
Once the climbers were off, the support team had to head back up the boggy hill that the climbers had spent the night on, to collapse their tents and bring all their kit down. With such late nights and early mornings it has become a priority to make sure the support team are well rested to ensure they are on top form for when the team are back down at camp. They are therefore taking every possible opportunity to catch some shuteye. It has also been very wet here for the past 48 hours so they are on standby for another trip to the laundrette in Fort William (the only one for miles around!) when the team return. On Friday poor Charlotte got left at the laundrette all afternoon as the team ran out of vehicles to pick her up. The support team all felt very sorry for her until they found out that the owner of the laundrette had taken pity on her and given her a bath and taken her out for tea. She also mentioned a trip to the pub so she soon lost their sympathy!
Today was particularly long but considerably shorter after some expert rearranging by support team member Stu Buchan. He suggested the team didn't use mountain bikes for one particular part as it meant they would spend a lot of time losing and then regaining height. Instead he managed to find an alternative route which kept them as high as possible and cut numerous hours off the day. Stu navigated them to a rendezvous point at the foot of the last 2 Munros, Stob Dubh (Buchaile Etive Beag) and Stob Coire Raineach, where he handed over to Lucy at 2020. After a quick break to change socks, powder feet and eat some food, Tom, Ceri and Alex were ready to crack the final leg of the day.
The team were glad to have a good footpath up to the saddle in between the final 2 of the day which were done in the dark. The winds really started to pick up and by the time they reached the summit it really was quite blustery. The team could see the end of a very, very long day in sight and managed to get back down to the road in 3 hrs which was very good. They then met up with Stu and Becky who administered the change onto roadbikes. Becky set off with them for the 8km cycle into the camping spot at the Kingshouse Hotel however she got a puncture about 1 km from the tent and had to push her bike the rest of the way. Back at camp Sarah had a very warming bacon risotto waiting for everyone which was much appreciated. The team ate their supper in their sleeping bags and were asleep by 0100. However they were up at 0400 the next morning for another very long day....The team are doing very well but are looking forward to a decent night’s sleep!
End of day 27 - 154 Munros climbed
Saturday 27 August 2011
Day 26 – A tough one...
Friday 26th August
This morning a very tired team were awoken at 0600 and practically forcefed their breakfast in order to wake them up. All three of them felt very sleep deprived as they only manage to get about 4 hours sleep. Sarah and Lewis on the other hand didn't make it to bed. They were up fixing bikes, making sandwiches and sorting out other important things for the busy day ahead. Thankfully both of them managed to catch up on sleep later in the day.
New support team member Stu Buchan took the team up the Munros today which were very boggy, and although the views were absolutely stunning, the team were really feeling the lack of sleep as tiredness truly kicked in. Glencoe is the team’s favourite area and they have been looking forward to it the most. It was a glorious morning and the scenery looked fantastic.
Today was always going to be a long day and by about 1900, the team had already climbed 6 Munros, all dedicated to The Royal Artillery. Meall Non Eun and Stob Coir an Albannich were the first two, with Stob Coir an Albannich dedicated to WO2 Michael Smith of The Royal Artillery. They were delighted to meet the McIlroys who represented the Highland Gunners and climbed today's 3rd Munro, Glas Bheinn Mhor, In memory of Sergeant David Wilkinson. Glas Bheinn Mhor was kindly sponsored by Rachel Wilkinson with the message "A million years from now my heart will ever hold you."
The team also climbed Beinn nan Aighenan, Ben Starav and Beinn Sgulaird. The team added Beinn Sgulaird (dedicated to Bombardier Craig Hopson) to today's route which was initially going to be climbed the next morning. We apologise for the confusion that these last minute changes in plan have on people following the team on their online route maps and trackplotter. However in situations like these, the climbers have to make sure that they are changing routes to accomodate how they are feeling at the time. These days are getting so long that if cutting a bit of time off one day makes all the difference. Unfortunately though, due to the last minute change in timings, the team were very sad to miss the Sawyers who had come up from 2 9 commando Plymouth to climb Ben Starav in honour of Captain Tom Sawyer in black tie!
After all of this the team met at an RV point to collect the roadbikes just before 1900, a little later than expected. They cycled to a small car park where they were given bowlfulls of chorizo pasta and three helpings of pudding! They sat in the van for an hour whilst the support team refueled their camelbacks with water, crammed as much food into their daysacks as possible and tended to their feet which are looking very much like prunes! Ceri is starting to have back troubles but it only seems to be a problem when he stops and sits down. The balls of his feet are still fairly numb but no one can fault his morale which considering his nasty bike incident yesterday is remarkable.
Alex is as usual very jolly and always meets the support team after a long day with jokes and banter.
Tom is in very good spirits and doing exceptionally well during these very tough days. He still absolutely loves the cycling part!
The support team sent them on their way at 2000 up a very steep and boggy hill which didn't have much in the way of a path. The support team had been up there earlier in the day to set up two tents with all the kit the team would need for a nights stay. It took about an hour and a half to get to the beautiful spot which was high up overlooking two lakes. Sadly it was too late and dark for the team to see the views when they got in. The support team left Becky up there so that she could cook them supper (number 2!) and check that they were all ok. Tom Elliot took the climbers up the very boggy hill (by now a well rehearsed route). They were due to get back to the camp at about 2300 but we have yet to catch up with Tom E to find out how they got on.
The team have got another couple of very tough days ahead of them before things become a little easier. It is amazing how much confidence they all have in each other. It was definitely a bonus to have had a really tough week (week 1) as it has given them a lot of confidence that they can do it again.
Over the last few days we have all been so touched by the incredible generosity of the local people. On Thursday the team were interviewed by Alan Thomson from STV. He very kindly managed to get us a night in the Bridge of Orchy Hotel. We are also grateful to Nadia and Duncan who were so generous in giving us all a bed for the night for free and for looking after us all so well. The use of a drying room has become sheer luxury as has a kitchen in which to eat breakfast away from the midges. We also owe a massive thank you to Mr and Mrs Lawrie who have let us camp on their grass verge for 2 nights now. With such wet weather we couldn't be more grateful for the use of a loo and hotwater! The cup of tea and KitKat went down very well too!
End of day 26 - 148 Munros climbed
This morning a very tired team were awoken at 0600 and practically forcefed their breakfast in order to wake them up. All three of them felt very sleep deprived as they only manage to get about 4 hours sleep. Sarah and Lewis on the other hand didn't make it to bed. They were up fixing bikes, making sandwiches and sorting out other important things for the busy day ahead. Thankfully both of them managed to catch up on sleep later in the day.
New support team member Stu Buchan took the team up the Munros today which were very boggy, and although the views were absolutely stunning, the team were really feeling the lack of sleep as tiredness truly kicked in. Glencoe is the team’s favourite area and they have been looking forward to it the most. It was a glorious morning and the scenery looked fantastic.
Today was always going to be a long day and by about 1900, the team had already climbed 6 Munros, all dedicated to The Royal Artillery. Meall Non Eun and Stob Coir an Albannich were the first two, with Stob Coir an Albannich dedicated to WO2 Michael Smith of The Royal Artillery. They were delighted to meet the McIlroys who represented the Highland Gunners and climbed today's 3rd Munro, Glas Bheinn Mhor, In memory of Sergeant David Wilkinson. Glas Bheinn Mhor was kindly sponsored by Rachel Wilkinson with the message "A million years from now my heart will ever hold you."
The team also climbed Beinn nan Aighenan, Ben Starav and Beinn Sgulaird. The team added Beinn Sgulaird (dedicated to Bombardier Craig Hopson) to today's route which was initially going to be climbed the next morning. We apologise for the confusion that these last minute changes in plan have on people following the team on their online route maps and trackplotter. However in situations like these, the climbers have to make sure that they are changing routes to accomodate how they are feeling at the time. These days are getting so long that if cutting a bit of time off one day makes all the difference. Unfortunately though, due to the last minute change in timings, the team were very sad to miss the Sawyers who had come up from 2 9 commando Plymouth to climb Ben Starav in honour of Captain Tom Sawyer in black tie!
After all of this the team met at an RV point to collect the roadbikes just before 1900, a little later than expected. They cycled to a small car park where they were given bowlfulls of chorizo pasta and three helpings of pudding! They sat in the van for an hour whilst the support team refueled their camelbacks with water, crammed as much food into their daysacks as possible and tended to their feet which are looking very much like prunes! Ceri is starting to have back troubles but it only seems to be a problem when he stops and sits down. The balls of his feet are still fairly numb but no one can fault his morale which considering his nasty bike incident yesterday is remarkable.
Tom is in very good spirits and doing exceptionally well during these very tough days. He still absolutely loves the cycling part!
The team have got another couple of very tough days ahead of them before things become a little easier. It is amazing how much confidence they all have in each other. It was definitely a bonus to have had a really tough week (week 1) as it has given them a lot of confidence that they can do it again.
Over the last few days we have all been so touched by the incredible generosity of the local people. On Thursday the team were interviewed by Alan Thomson from STV. He very kindly managed to get us a night in the Bridge of Orchy Hotel. We are also grateful to Nadia and Duncan who were so generous in giving us all a bed for the night for free and for looking after us all so well. The use of a drying room has become sheer luxury as has a kitchen in which to eat breakfast away from the midges. We also owe a massive thank you to Mr and Mrs Lawrie who have let us camp on their grass verge for 2 nights now. With such wet weather we couldn't be more grateful for the use of a loo and hotwater! The cup of tea and KitKat went down very well too!
End of day 26 - 148 Munros climbed
Friday 26 August 2011
Day 25 – The team make it to the halfway mark!
Thursday 25th August
Today marked the halfway point in the Munro Mission, and what a day it was to mark this point. After a lovely night in The Bridge of Orchy Hotel, the team had a quick breakfast and the last shower for what may be some time. They were out of the hotel (see below) by 0600, with their wet kit all dry thanks to the drying room facilities. A massive thankyou goes to all at the hotel for their generosity and letting the team stay the night. It was hugely appreciated by everyone.
Today the team met DecAid patron Simon Hollington and Alan Thomson from STV. After the attempted filming session in the torrential rain last night, Alan kindly decided to come and meet the team this morning for some action shots on the hill and a few interviews with Tom, Alex, Ceri and Simon.
After about 45mins of posing and interviews the team were on their way. Simon Hollington met the team ready to climb the first 2 munros of the day, Beinn Dorain and Beinn an Dothaidh. The first Munro, Beinn Dorain, was sponsored by Simon and Anne as it was dedicated to their nephew Royal Marine Richard Hollington who lost his life from injuries sustained in Afghanistan last year. It was an absolutely stunning day. Blue skies and the warmth of the sun really helped to lift everyone’s spirits especially as it was a bit colder this morning! The team are certainly starting to feel the temperature difference as they approach September and head further North. The photo below shows Simon and the team on the summit of Beinn Dorain (Munro number 136) at 0855 today.
The climbers had a really good day; spirits were high and they were extremely pleased to meet Ed Parker (founder of walking with the wounded) and his daughter Kitty on the hills. This photo below shows then on the bealach between Beinn Dorain and Beinn an Dothaidh at 0945 today.
The team went on to climb Beinn Mhanach which was dedicated to Corporal Danny Winter and Beinn a'Chreachainh dedicated to Lieutenant John Thornton, both of The Royal Marines. Earlier on in the day Tom had worked out that at exactly 1524 the team would be exactly half way through the Munro Mission! 24 days and 6 hours in....The photo below shows the exact moment as measured by their Nitewatches!
The team were walking until 1600 when they picked up bikes for a quick 45minute cycle down a beautiful track to the road bike stop. There were a fair few river crossings to negotiate on their way down and not all of them went smoothly. It was especially treacherous for Becky who flew off her bike into one such river, getting more than a little damp! But the day didn't finish there for the Munro Mission team...
With a new DecAid member joining the support team, the boys out on hill, a fresh attitude and raring to go, spirits were high as the climbers set off for the later part of the day. The team changed their initial route for the evening, adding the first 2 from tomorrow’s route on to the end of today as they were concerned about the length of the days. This included Stob Ghabhar, dedicate to Lance Bombardier James Dwyer of the Royal Artillery, kindly sponsored by climber Ceri and his wife Jo. There were some more challenging routes to overcome this evening and they proved to put the team to the test at the end of a long and tough day in the Scottish highlands. However, they all arrived safely at their final bike stop to pick up the road bikes and enjoy a steady ride into camp. Ceri unfortunately suffered a rather scary crash bursting a tyre and finding himself buried in undergrowth. Still in one piece though, if a little shocked and stiff as a result of the crash, it was a relief to find camp where there were dry clothes, warm food and a bed waiting for them all. The team were allowed to camp outside a very kind gentleman’s house and use his outdoor facilities (including a toilet and hot water!!). The Munro Mission team are constantly amazed at the generosity shown by the locals and the positive reception DecAid receives. Being able to camp in private grounds and make use of facilities and hot water makes such a difference to everyone involved. At the end of the arduous day, not finishing until 0130, it was quick to bed ready for an early rise the next morning.
End of day 25 - 142 Munros climbed.
Today marked the halfway point in the Munro Mission, and what a day it was to mark this point. After a lovely night in The Bridge of Orchy Hotel, the team had a quick breakfast and the last shower for what may be some time. They were out of the hotel (see below) by 0600, with their wet kit all dry thanks to the drying room facilities. A massive thankyou goes to all at the hotel for their generosity and letting the team stay the night. It was hugely appreciated by everyone.
Today the team met DecAid patron Simon Hollington and Alan Thomson from STV. After the attempted filming session in the torrential rain last night, Alan kindly decided to come and meet the team this morning for some action shots on the hill and a few interviews with Tom, Alex, Ceri and Simon.
After about 45mins of posing and interviews the team were on their way. Simon Hollington met the team ready to climb the first 2 munros of the day, Beinn Dorain and Beinn an Dothaidh. The first Munro, Beinn Dorain, was sponsored by Simon and Anne as it was dedicated to their nephew Royal Marine Richard Hollington who lost his life from injuries sustained in Afghanistan last year. It was an absolutely stunning day. Blue skies and the warmth of the sun really helped to lift everyone’s spirits especially as it was a bit colder this morning! The team are certainly starting to feel the temperature difference as they approach September and head further North. The photo below shows Simon and the team on the summit of Beinn Dorain (Munro number 136) at 0855 today.
The team were walking until 1600 when they picked up bikes for a quick 45minute cycle down a beautiful track to the road bike stop. There were a fair few river crossings to negotiate on their way down and not all of them went smoothly. It was especially treacherous for Becky who flew off her bike into one such river, getting more than a little damp! But the day didn't finish there for the Munro Mission team...
With a new DecAid member joining the support team, the boys out on hill, a fresh attitude and raring to go, spirits were high as the climbers set off for the later part of the day. The team changed their initial route for the evening, adding the first 2 from tomorrow’s route on to the end of today as they were concerned about the length of the days. This included Stob Ghabhar, dedicate to Lance Bombardier James Dwyer of the Royal Artillery, kindly sponsored by climber Ceri and his wife Jo. There were some more challenging routes to overcome this evening and they proved to put the team to the test at the end of a long and tough day in the Scottish highlands. However, they all arrived safely at their final bike stop to pick up the road bikes and enjoy a steady ride into camp. Ceri unfortunately suffered a rather scary crash bursting a tyre and finding himself buried in undergrowth. Still in one piece though, if a little shocked and stiff as a result of the crash, it was a relief to find camp where there were dry clothes, warm food and a bed waiting for them all. The team were allowed to camp outside a very kind gentleman’s house and use his outdoor facilities (including a toilet and hot water!!). The Munro Mission team are constantly amazed at the generosity shown by the locals and the positive reception DecAid receives. Being able to camp in private grounds and make use of facilities and hot water makes such a difference to everyone involved. At the end of the arduous day, not finishing until 0130, it was quick to bed ready for an early rise the next morning.
End of day 25 - 142 Munros climbed.
Thursday 25 August 2011
Day 24 - The team bag a hotel room for the night!
Wednesday 24th August.
This morning the team were up and out by 0700 and the day started with a road bike to a power station (with a visitor centre!). Once there they then had a steep ascent to a dam which had to be mounted by ladder. The first Munro of the day was Ben Cruachan, which was very kindly sponsored by Claire Neilson. All of the Munros the team climbed today were dedicated to The Royal Marines. This was completed on time, with stunning views of mist and more mist. The climbers then continued to walk along the ridge top which was intermittently broken up by some nice scrambling to the top of the second Munro, Stob Daimh, which was sponsored by Colonel A.K Miller. The drop off the top of Stob Daimh was very boring and led them to the bottom of the valley. As the team dropped down they had an ominous view up through the grey swirling mist toward the dark defined profile of Munro number 3.
Beinn a'Chochuill, and the fourth Munro of the day Beinn Eunaich, were sponsored by seafreedomkayak. It was Tony from seafreedomkayak who very kindly joined the climbers for their crossing of the sound of Mull on the 1st day of the Mission. Upon summiting Beinn a'Chochuill, there was little to be seen except more mist. However on route to Beinn Eunaich, the team had to walk along a wide, winding, windswept ridge (try saying that one fast!) On this ridge they met a lovely couple who were very interested in DecAid, and promised to donate, so thankyou!
On the summit of Beinn Eunaich the team were lucky enough to have clear blue skies and great views (only joking, more mist) before hopping onto mountain bikes. The mountain bikes were exchanged for road bikes and the team had a 30 KM bike ride to the Bridge of Orchy. This ride felt especially nippy due to the presence of an STV camera crew! Upon arrival at their destination, The Bridge of Orchy hotel, the team discovered that they were allowed to stay a night in the hotel for free which was absolutely fantastic! They couldn’t quite believe their luck and tucked into a delicious dinner at around 2000. So despite what was quite a dull day up on the hill, the team went to bed with smiles on their faces!
Below is a glimpse of the Glencoe area which the team will be approaching on Friday. Despite it being very mountainous and steep, they are very excited as its beauty and fantastic walking makes it their favourite place. Becky and Tom Elliott were doing a recce today so that they are well prepared for the tough long days to come.
But before then the team will reach the halfway point in the Munro Mission so watch this space!
End of day 24 - 135 Munros climbed.
This morning the team were up and out by 0700 and the day started with a road bike to a power station (with a visitor centre!). Once there they then had a steep ascent to a dam which had to be mounted by ladder. The first Munro of the day was Ben Cruachan, which was very kindly sponsored by Claire Neilson. All of the Munros the team climbed today were dedicated to The Royal Marines. This was completed on time, with stunning views of mist and more mist. The climbers then continued to walk along the ridge top which was intermittently broken up by some nice scrambling to the top of the second Munro, Stob Daimh, which was sponsored by Colonel A.K Miller. The drop off the top of Stob Daimh was very boring and led them to the bottom of the valley. As the team dropped down they had an ominous view up through the grey swirling mist toward the dark defined profile of Munro number 3.
Beinn a'Chochuill, and the fourth Munro of the day Beinn Eunaich, were sponsored by seafreedomkayak. It was Tony from seafreedomkayak who very kindly joined the climbers for their crossing of the sound of Mull on the 1st day of the Mission. Upon summiting Beinn a'Chochuill, there was little to be seen except more mist. However on route to Beinn Eunaich, the team had to walk along a wide, winding, windswept ridge (try saying that one fast!) On this ridge they met a lovely couple who were very interested in DecAid, and promised to donate, so thankyou!
On the summit of Beinn Eunaich the team were lucky enough to have clear blue skies and great views (only joking, more mist) before hopping onto mountain bikes. The mountain bikes were exchanged for road bikes and the team had a 30 KM bike ride to the Bridge of Orchy. This ride felt especially nippy due to the presence of an STV camera crew! Upon arrival at their destination, The Bridge of Orchy hotel, the team discovered that they were allowed to stay a night in the hotel for free which was absolutely fantastic! They couldn’t quite believe their luck and tucked into a delicious dinner at around 2000. So despite what was quite a dull day up on the hill, the team went to bed with smiles on their faces!
Below is a glimpse of the Glencoe area which the team will be approaching on Friday. Despite it being very mountainous and steep, they are very excited as its beauty and fantastic walking makes it their favourite place. Becky and Tom Elliott were doing a recce today so that they are well prepared for the tough long days to come.
But before then the team will reach the halfway point in the Munro Mission so watch this space!
End of day 24 - 135 Munros climbed.
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