Left the hostel (actually seven sleep despite snoring women and a very short bed – Readiness 75, Sleep 77, Activity 75) to arrive on time for the opening of THE BOTHY. Was not the only one … I was #4 in line and by 09:00 (when I finally left) about 8 TGOer showed up.
After leaving Ballater I had to first climb 400 altitude meters than go back down, back up, back down till I reached the junction for me to go parallel to Mount Keen.
That was quite tough and pathless for almost 5km … crossing a fort I slipped and fell … oh well, was worse last year on day 4.
I eventually – after 32km and 1.200 altitude meters reached the challenge control at St. Drostan in Tarfside (my third time! last year I even stayed at the hostel in a private room).
After a beacon roll, tea, and an apple I left to go pitch my tent. Was only the fourth or fifth … but by the evening there were well over 20 tents
And the the BBQ and get together at the Masonic Lodge started – 2 burgers and lots of Cider and beer … everyone knows what goes in must come out, which made me get up twice in the middle of the night.
🚶♂️ : 3 – that I passed and 0 for the last 20km
🦌 : 20
Readiness 80, Sleep 84, Activity 85
Learnings:
- Often the effort adds up towards the end and even with the destination in sight it gets harder and harder.
- After some hard work – and even in between – you also have to find time to enjoy … good for your mind!
Magical Moments:
- None today …
Tomorrow is supposed to be heavy rain all day long starting at 04:00 in the morning. Hmmhhh … I may not go over the hills!
My Travel Adventures 