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.
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