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.
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