Some thanks...

I couldn’t start this brief round-up anywhere else other than to thank JC, my road support for the full six weeks, what a fantastic effort in so many ways – too many to list here - but suffice at this stage to say that the round just wouldn’t have happened without him. I am also indebted to a huge number of other people who contributed in various ways, again too many to list here. Two I must thank though are Sam and her brother Ian who enthusiastically took on the task of converting me from an incompetent novice paddler into a slightly more competent one with some unexpectedly exciting training paddles – duelling with swans being the highlight - on the canals and rivers around Stafford. They also made the long trek North with kayaks strapped to the roof of Ian’s Land Rover for the out-and-back crossing of Loch Lomond. The Tait family also deserve special mention, their hospitality in Strontian got the round off to the best of starts and subsequent deliveries of home-baked bread and cakes were a real treat (what I got to see of them that JC hadn’t intercepted).

A great many people came out to accompany me on the hills. This included some of my regular hill-running friends for some big days out throughout the course of the round. But it was also great to introduce some friends to the Highlands with five breaking their Munro ducks – they’ve all vowed to be back. In total I had company on 140 of the 283 Munros. I was also lucky that a number of friends also saw this as a great opportunity to get some cycle training in on the great open roads of the Highlands so on many of the longer road sections I was able to tuck in behind and avoid the worst of the wind.

The blog was set up (I’ve got Chris Upson to thank for providing the IT nous) to keep family and friends up-to-date with what was going on. The idea had been that I would update the blog in tandem with JC but this immediately went out of the window. The evening routine soon became chat and de-brief on the day with JC as I gradually worked my way through the mountain of food that he’d prepared for me, followed by more food and discussion and plans for the following day. I found I had little time – I was rarely back at the van before 8pm and often after 10pm - and even less energy for updating the blog. This left the task of adding updates and finding a mobile signal for internet connection to JC. From all the reports I’ve had, he clearly did an excellent job of this. It was also interesting to see the growing number of visitors to the site as the weeks progressed although I’m not sure how many of these were repeat visits as it seems that for quite a number of people this was the morning routine on arriving at work.

I was touched and inspired by the many messages of support both from friends and also from total strangers. The thought of all these people following what was going on brought a smile to my face and spurred me on at various times during the tougher moments on the hill. So thank you all and I’m glad JC and I were able to keep you entertained.

I was also surprised to get recognised by total strangers – most notably on the top of Sgorr na h’Ulaidh in Glencoe where three guys arrived at the summit with one of them loudly proclaiming to his mates that it was me and then making sure everyone else enjoying their quiet Sunday afternoon were aware of who I was. We had a good chat but I must apologise I didn’t make a note of their names – if you read this guys get in touch as I owe you a beer because the Snickers bar you gave me was a life-saver as I ran out of steam on Beinn Fhionnlaidh later in the day.

For the statistically minded, I’m afraid you’ll have to wait a bit longer for the various numbers on distance covered and height gained. Working this out is proving a fairly laborious process using Memory Map since I didn’t carry a GPS, unless anyone has a better suggestion. But one or two stats for the time being...
Bike distance on tarmac (mostly road bike but some short stretches on MTB): 1297km (I estimate another 80km was on tracks)
I climbed ten or more Munros on eleven of the forty days, with three 12-Munro days, three 11-Munro days and five 10-Munro days.
The fewest Munros climbed was one on the day when I cycled over to the Isle of Skye and went up Bla Bheinn before descending west (route courtesy of Yiannis Tridimas) for a glorious walk out through Glen Sligachan to the Sligachan Hotel (one of many highlights of the trip).

Some of the highlights of the early days of the round...

After the first week, which had mostly been accompanied by a mixture of grey, low cloud, drizzle and snow showers, I was joined by Digby Harris and Mike Nelson at Corrour Bothy in the heart of the Cairngorms ready for a big day out to try to complete the remaining ten central and eastern Cairngorm Munros. Getting up early on Sunday morning there was a hard frost on the ground and the wind direction had changed to a bitingly cold Northerly. This gave a wind chill well below minus 10°C and conditions ideal for ski touring (initial concerns that we hadn’t brought ice axes or crampons were unfounded) but the skies remained clear as we trudged round the vast arctic wilderness.

A week later we had an equally big day out that took in 12 Munros, which started with Schiehallion before heading South over the Glen Lyons hills and finishing with an East-West traverse of the Ben Lawers hills. This time the weather, which had started with freezing clag on Schiehallion got better and better as the day progressed and we had a magical evening in bright sunshine as we crossed the Lawers group. The views stretched for miles in all directions allowing us to pick out the various peaks we had climbed in the previous few days from the Cairngorms south.

I always seem to get lucky with traverses of the Mamores. On earlier Ramsay and Tranters rounds I have been blessed with bright evening sunshine and beautiful sunsets over Ardgour to the west. My East-West traverse on this round was no exception to this rule and despite increasing fatigue as I climbed Sgurr A’Mhaim and onwards to Stob Ban I felt that in conditions like this there was nowhere else I’d rather be.

Further highlights, thoughts and stats to follow.

Day 40 - Ben Klibreck and Ben Hope

Tim Laney writes : the final day began with a climb up the western slopes of Ben Klibreck through a lot of tussocky grass and heather of the kind familiar to most mountain marathoners. The ridge cleared as we reached it, and the summit gave stunning views of the surrounding country. Back to the road to find a reception committee from the Angry Corrie and the JMT, along with more of Spyke's friends and supporters. JBC produced the last of many plates of sandwiches manufactured during the round, before packing Spyke off on the 15 mile cycle to the foot of Ben Hope. The final climb was taken in bright sunlight to a busy summit.
Spyke touched the trig point at 3:06pm to complete the round of 283 Munros in 39 days, 9 hours and 6 minutes.
A number of glasses of champagne were taken by the company to celebrate his great achievement, and a parcel from previous record holder, Charlie Campbell, containing a bottle of Singleton's Malt Whisky found buried in the summit cairn was discovered. As Charlie wrote "What can I say but awesome! Many, many congratulations on setting such a fantastic record. Savour the moment, as the Munro memories will last for ever...it takes a singular determination and character to see an enterprise like this through to a successful ending, and you have done that".

Day 39 - Conival and Ben Mor Assynt

Tim Laney writes : After a short night's sleep Spyke and Tom set off for the long ride north to Inchnadamph, pausing for a refuelling stop at the Elphin tearooms. Inchnadamph was wet and windy, with low cloud. Spyke headed off up the hill with a group of six supporters. The waterfall on the crest of the ridge was going in reverse in the high wind, which became ever more gusty up on the tops, resulting in several members of the party losing their footing on the wet quartzite. Spyke and Tom took in Ben Mor Assynt and returned to the Inchnadamph car park for a tea break before another long bike ride - 50 miles this time - around to Altnaharra for a well deserved supper and rest.

Day 38 - Fionn Beinn, Ben Wyvis and the Beinn Dearg Group

Tim Laney writes : Spyke set off for a brisk stroll up Fionn Beinn with Pam Nix, before returning to the road for a pedal around to the Wyvis car park. Then a sociable walk up onto Ben Wyvis with the largest group of supporters yet, with JB attaining his 4th Munro of the trip. After a pasta meal back at the van, he cycled up the road to the head of Loch Glascarnoch, where he set off across the bogs at a brisk trot accompanied by Tom Brunt and Tim Laney. The traverse of the Beinn Dearg peaks took another 8 hours, through some amazing scenery. We stopped briefly on the final peak for the day, Seana Braigh, to admire the 500 metre cliffs of the northern corries, before a long jog back to the road at Inverlael, emerging onto the road at 12.45. Spyke's longest day yet, but another 8 munros added to the list, and only four to go!

Day 37 E Fisherfield and the Fanniachs

Another summery type day, Pam and JC take in bikes then climb An Coileachan, see an Eagle, a mum Ptarmigan with chicks, lots of frogs, Ben and Amy arrive, Oh and Spyke climbed some hills!!!

Sorry the sun is going to my head, Tom, Pam and Andy Skelhorn, who had been tracking us for a couple of days, come away from Shevanal with all the spare kit meet up with JC at Collieharries.

Andy leaves after the brief stay, Tom sets off for the shops, and a mega bike ride, JC and Pam on their nature trail/munro bag.

At the sharp end of the event Spyke and Tim leave the bothy just after 07.00 to take on the huge route which includes the 3 Eastern Fisherfields then all the Fanniachs from West to East, descending off An Coileachan collect the mountain bikes, cycle out to Grudie, it is just after 21.00 Spyke jumps on the road bike, pedals for about 25 minutes down to Achnasheen to stay in the bunkhouse.

Day36 Fisherfield to Shevanal Bothy

Early start from the carpark campsite, Spyke bikes to Kinlochewe, then sets of at 09.15 for Slioch with Ian, and Steve Watts, they both return from that summit. Ian has work commitments, Steves' ankle has become increasingly painful so he regretfully decides to return home, a great shame after his heroic showing on the Cullin Ridge.

Spyke continues through the Fisherfield and An Teallach group, Tom has dropped provisions at the bothy, then meets up with Spyke for the final five tops before they drop into Shenaval at about 21.30.

JC meanwhile has picked up Tim and Pam from Inverness Airport following their flight from Bristol, they are whisked off to the closest entry point, have a quick repack and make their way into Shenaval with extra kit for Spyke.

Following a cloudy start the weather has at last taken a turn for the better, it is a truly wonderful evening both for the bothy group, and JC on a great lochside campsite

Day 35 Torridon

Somewhat tardy start this morning despite having breakfast provided by Steve, the hostel warden, the change in routine seems to make everything more difficult to find, are we actually excepting living in a big tin box as the norm?,Oh dear!!!

A huge thanks for the cheery welcome, and support from Steve and the hostel manager Mat, they make a great team, they are outdoor people so are aware of what Spyke was about, no need for the usual explanations about the round.

Yesterdays rain persisted into this morning and would fall through-out the day, together with sporadic low cloud not a great day to be traversing miles of loose slippy boulders.

Spyke cycled through Torridon village, then with Swatts as company set about the awesome threesome which make up the Torridons, there being some consolation, six munros are the reward for traverse.

Swatts returned to the van after completing Beinn Alligan and Liathach, his troublesome ankle looking really swollen and painful, Spyke soldiered on over Bheinn Eighe, with his now reliable burst of energy later in the day, arriving at the carpark about 21.00.

Tom Brunt, and Ian Dark Peak(I just know that's not his proper name) had turned up during the afternoon, so there is much discussion on the best way to tackle the next two days in Fisherfield and the Fanniachs. Tom was happy to leave for Dundonnel spend the night there, then haul overnight gear into Shenavall bothy to meet Spyke on the route around lunchtime, that done, we settle down for an early night in yet another carpark.

ps My cuckoo thing is still on a streak, heard at least three today, also saw what I think was a Red Kite whilst on a 50 miles round trip to the shops.

Day 34 Achnashellach

Spyke departs, from a somewhat gloomy campsite(car park) on his mountain bike for the lengthy haul up the forestry road in Allt a' Chonais, to do out and back ascents, of Moruisg and Maolie Lunndaith. He returns down the track and cycles on to Achnashallach station, then following a change, and refuel he sets off for Torridon over the three Coulin tops, todays showers have joined together to give persistant rain, making conditions on the rocky, boulder strewn slopes extremely tricky. JC is fortunate enough to obtain beds in the hostel, where a bedraggled hero arrives about 22.00, as he is devouring a mega meal Steve Watts turns up having fought his way through the traffic from Manchester. No pics again today, just draw yourselves a grey mountain with grey sky and grey rain Hey presto Torridon tonight!!!

Day 33 Loch Monar

The cold showery weather continues, Spyke leaves our campsite in glorious Glen Strathfarrar at 08.30, he struggles to find a river crossing initially, the ford is in spate and the bridge labelled, closed and dangerous, the bridge it is!! It was a struggle to get his legs going but soon found his rhythm, he saw more people around today despite heavy snow showers, chatting to a pair of walkers he had met previously in Glen Afric. Also spotted some stud marks which may have been IanDarkPeak who is in the area.

JC collected the mountain bike then lingered in the glen until lunchtime, the Lady of the Gate was charming now, and sensible enough to question Spykes' sanity, a lengthy drive to Craig where Spyke arrived at 22.00 with another eight tops under his belt.

Marmite savoury mince tonight, just how lucky can one guy get!!!!

Day 32 Afric to Strathfarrar

Yet again the weather is decidedly chilly, a biting Northerly makes it uncomfortable in the glens, much more so on the tops, occassional showers in the morning, some sun then heavy downpours in the evening, which Spyke reports as near blizzard conditions above 800 metres.

Away from the Youth Hostel at about 08.15, Spyke set about the remaining Glen Afric tops, he is met by Rob Woodall (King of the tops baggers) who accompanies him over the last couple of summits, and down to Mullardoch Dam to meet JC, time is now 16.15. After refuelling he sets off on his bike for Glen Strathfarrar, access here might be a problem, as there is a locked gate, sure enough Rob and JC are let in but warned they must be out by 19.00. It is going to be tight, JC gets stuck into the culinary treats for tea, while Rob gathers together camping gear so we can leave him in the Glen. It is 10 minutes to seven I move the van slowly back down the glen(the lady of the gate was pretty scary), Spyke hoves into view, I start to fill him in on the whereabouts of his gear," don't worry about that, the gate lady is fine she will make an exception for me" Pyke charm works again!!!

Rob hares off to do some "trig" bagging on Orkney, Spyke goes off to do the four tops North of the Glen, and I spend the evening making butties in the glorious isolation of Glen Strahfarrar. Spyke returns at 23.10 reporting a layer of fresh snow and an Eagle sighting.

Day 31 Cluanie to Afric

A freewheel from the Cluanie to the start of the Kintail route, in the company of Mandy,Martin and Phil they hit the path at 08.30, Phil goes to the first top then heads towards Tobermory for his 10 days whale watching. Mandy and Martin continue with Spyke for the first three Sisters then continue along to take in the non-munro tops, Spyke heads towards Bheinn Fhadda and another 3 summits before dropping into the Alltbeithe Youth Hostel at 22.00, JC having delivered the overnight gear, following a yomp in from Glen Shiel, pleasant but a long way for an old fella,!!!

Anecdote time.... Towards the end of the Cuillin Ridge, Swatts glances over his shoulder, " hey up theres' a glider" startled Neil and Spyke look around "err no Steve thats a Golden Eagle". The excuse " I haven't got my glasses" This from the guy who has lead them over the Inn Pin and the remainder of the ridge, it's a worry!!!

Day 30 Return to the Cluanie

It's 8 30, with Steve Watts as pacemaker Spyke heads back to the mainland, Neil relays the pacing duties so they make good time up Glen Shiel to the foot of Carn Ghluasaid, but what excitement at the van when they arrive!!!!!

We have a visitor, a sprightly grey beard had walked up to the van asking which one of you is Spyke, a bit of feet shuffling then "well none of us he is peddling his way from Skye." Thats a shame I am Hamish Brown I did the first continuous round" says our visitor, at just that moment Spyke arrives, nicely covering the fact that none of his support crew had recognised, the most famous, and as it turned out very genial munro rounder. Spyke and the great man share a few thoughts, handshakes, some pictures, Hamish makes a quiet exit ,then we are left to fill Spyke with scoff, and swap Hamish Brown stories. By now everybody thought it was him but didn't say so!! huh!

Back to reality, Spyke sets off with Phil as company for his first three tops, he then continues alone collecting the hills at the top of Glen Shiel finishing at 20.50 near the Cluanie Inn, it is after food serving time but the staff kindly keep open, and Spyke wraps himself around a Venison Casserole for the second time this week.

We are met here by Mandy and Martin Calvert who are on a break in Fort William we make arrangements to meet in the morning so they can accompany Spyke into the Sisters and Brothers Kintail.

Then we get to camp in the Cluanie carpark with the "sweet" stink of dead dear wafting through the van, well makes a change from socks and other perfumes, those who know Spyke well will know what I mean!!!

Day 29 The Cuillin Ridge

Spot on 06.00 Spyke, and Neil King leave the Glen Brittle campsite to take on one of the most daunting challenges in an itinary of big challenges. This is a day when the tough guys toe the plate, Neil who agreed at short notice to accompany Spyke across the ridge, following Steve Watts ankle injury. Steve has come up with Neil, fortified by tape and painkillers he walks up to the "In Pin" leads the climb, then decides to finish the remainder of the route with Spyke and Neil. A triumph for guts and Ibrufen!!

JC and Al walked in with Steve, Al left early as he had to catch a flight from Glasgow late that afternoon, Spyke has some great mates, Al had flown from Brighton to Glasgow, hired a car then tracked us down in order to spend a very few hours with him. After delivering water to the troops, and taking some pics of the In Pin ascent, JC returned to the van enjoying the brief spell of sunshine this made quite a change from the low cloud, and wind which was around for the first part of the traverse.

Phil Cheek yet another Macc Harrier met me at Sligachan, he is on his way to a whale watch around the Scottish Isles breaking his journey by calling in to offer help where required he was soon roped in to take Neil to Glen Brittle to retrieve his car.

It was to prove a longish wait, they had hoped to be down in time to eat in the Sligachan Hotel, unfortunately for them it was 21.30 when they arrived so were "treated" to heaping plates of JC special leftovers sauce with pasta. I am writing this the following day and they have all survived, a victory for culinary ingenuity I think!!

Day 28 Over the sea to Skye

A misty damp morning, Jim and Nigel say farewell and head for home turf, Steve Parker is to continue his pacing duties and accompanies Spyke, across the bridge as far as the John Muir carpark at the the foot of Blaven. Somewhat reluctantly Steve wishes us well , sets off to bike back to Glen Shiel then drive home to Stone, a big thank you to the three SMM guys who came up and gave Spyke much valued support.

He now set about traversing Blaven dropping down at Sligachen around 18.00, then the mainly downhill cycle ride to Glen Brittle campsite where Al joined us for supper. We all have an early night as it is a 06.00 start tomorrow for the crossing of the Cuillin Ridge. Watch this space!! apologies for lack of pics', but they take an age to upload using the mobile attachment I will make a big effort to get some on soon.

Steve Watts and Neil King arrive following a breakneck journey from Cheshire, apparently after midnight but we didn't hear them, this challenge encourages deep sleep!!

Day 27 Bike rides, Beinn Sgritheall and more

A warm muggy morning saw the "peleton" leave Glen Shiel campsite at 09.25, Spyke with Nigel,Jim and at the front super" domestique" Steve Parker heading for the vertical tarmac of the Ratagan Pass. You know when Spyke admits he is not looking forward to something that it must be pretty grim, this was a certainly the case at Ratagan as bodies, and machines ground to walking pace on the road even Parker was reduced to walking. All good( for those of us watching) things come to an end, following a few more undulations, the foot of yet more vertical land was reached, this time the surface was a grotty mix of grass, heather, boulders and bog a typical Spyke route. In a moment of madness I decided to accompany Al up the slope. Al struggled with the awful going, our hero legged it into the clouds, yours truly gave up about two thirds of the way and returned to the van, but I was not alone!!! more later.

The cyclists had been entertained at the local tea shop by the charismatic provider of sustanence, Jim and Nigel returned to Glen Shiel, leaving Steve P. with the pacing duties back to the foot of The Saddle. This was reached at 16.00 and Spyke "nipped" off to complete the South side of Cluanie by 20.15, a quick bike ride then off to join the gang in the pub for food and a half pint.

Here Spyke demonstrated his versatility entertaining a group of somewhat awestruck walkers with understated tales of the trip so far, we were back in the van when he said" I think I have a tick", then started the game of "tick pick". I am pretty sure I have removed most of the little buggars, but our hero could be carrying a couple of unwanted passengers to the top of Bla Bheinn as I write.

Day 26 Oichy to Glen Shiel.

Hi all, firstly I must make good on an omission from yesterday, despite the fact that we arrived in the middle of the night and overstayed next morning, Jen and Matt at Invergarry bunkhouse were as welcoming as possible, a truly great facility for us "types" staying in this area, thanks guys!!

Spyke and Steve Parker left the campsite at 09.40 to drop a few klicks, on the road, to the up and back climb of Squirl Mhaoroch. Steve P completed his second ever Munro at 13.30, then biked with Spyke to the start of the climb to Gleoraich. Here our man was to set off solo, to cross Spidean Mialech, then onwards to Greag a Mhain along six more tops of the South Clunie ridge, before dropping to the road at Glen Shiel Battlefield, then bike down to Glen Shiel campsite. Another late supper hey its working so lets go with it.

While all this was going on Nigel and Jim returned to Barrisdale Bay campsite to retrieve Spykes' camping kit, unfortunately it was nowhere to be found. I cannot imagine it being stolen from such a remote location, so if anyone out there has any information about a full camping kit that was left at Barrisdale on the morning of the 19th May please give me a call on 07736245468.

As I sit in the van writing this, I am being almost deafened by a Cuckoo there appears to be one in every Scottish Glen this year, more than I can remember mind you thats not saying a great deal

Day 25 Knoydart.

There were apparently several questioning looks when our hero laid out his intentions for this bit, however he stuck to the plan and survived!! He left Barrisdale at about 08.30 setting off in damp conditions with low cloud over the whole area, Ladhar Bheinn proved somewhat problematic where he almost became cragfast, this was to be repeated later on Luinne Bheinn. Spyke topped Gairich at 21.48 hrs arriving at our campsite by the Loch Quioch dam at 00.35hrs, a huge day,but he proved that his plan could work.

While Spyke was doing all the "tuf stuff" the Stone contingent which now included Steve Parker were building bonfires, and having a cracking evening Nigel providing a splendid curry(shame the star didn't turn up before they all went to bed).

He is in to the last hundred yet another significant milestone passed, all we need now is some sleep plzzzzzzz!!

Day 24 Off to the North

Wow! the highland Spring has finally sprung, following a great sunny afternoon, and pleasant, still evening yesterday,it was a pleasure to be up and about at 07.00 today (even for me Sam). A rather more leisurely start saw Spyke away from the camp at 08.20 for the bike ride to Drumsalie, on the A820. Then a change to his MTB for the trip in to pick up Guilvan, this was originally scheduled for the first day, but he omitted it after being assured by Chris that it could be picked off fairly easily as he started North.

Update on todays mixed bag later, Nigel Brawn and Jim Holland are due to visit this afternoon, so I might go for a little bike ride in the sun before they arrive.
Spyke returned to the van at 14.10 for the bike ride to Clunes on the West side of Loch Lochy, back to foot power for the middle bit of his trip over the two Glengarry Forest tops, then down to the hidden MTB, along to Killfinnan, a quick swap to his road machine for the ride down the longest cul de sac ever, that is the road to Kinloch Hourn. He was there for 23.00 had a last bite to eat and set off for the midnight walk to Barridale Bay.

Jim and Nigel had arrived mid afternoon, and were persuaded that a little trot to Barridale Bay with Spykes' camping kit would get them nicely into the swing of Munro support. Some five and a half hours later they returned "its farther than it looks on the map" and "a stroll along the shore it aint" are two of the printable comments, when they returned to Invergarry bunkhouse at 01.30hrs. Booking into the bunkhouse had seemed a good idea, but we had not made allowance for the 22 miles of undulating tarmac hell that takes you to Kinloch Hourn

Day 23 Ballachullish and the Mamores.

Early start today left Invercoe campsite at 07.15 to cycle to South Ballachullish, on the hill at 07.40 then completed both Sgorr Dhonuill and Sgorr Dhearg, and on his bike towards Kinlochleven by 11.20 arriving at 12.10, he left for the Mamores at 12.35. Whilst in Kinlochleven he received a bit of worrying news, his regular running partner Steve Watts has damaged an ankle, and may not be fit to complete the Skye section with Spyke as planned. Anyone out there with the skills, knowledge and time next weekend(weather permitting) to take on the Cuillins with Spyke please contact 07736245468. I will update you on his progress through the Mamores tomorrow, meanwhile I have some home made bread to taste(ho ho).

Spyke completed the long drag up to Sgurr Eilde Mor by b14.35, then set off along familiar Ramsey Round territory that is the Mamores Ridge, arriving at Mulloch nan Coiran at 21.25, then down through some grotty forestry to the van in Glen Nevis, for some more yummy JC stew!!!

Day 22 Bidian to Glen Ure

Spyke returned to last nights finish point, outside of the Clachaig, no thought of a quiet pint now though. He left at about 8.45 hrs Bidian bound then continuing across Sgor na h-Ullaidh, Bein Fhionnlaidh, and in company of Mike Perry up and over Beinn Sgulaird, to finish in the lovely Glen Ure. This is Mikes' last day before returning to the pleasures !!! of work, so he took the opportunity to drive around with me to Elleric then meet Spyke as he crossed the glen, Spyke then rode off back to Glencoe. Enroute we were met by Helen, Jamie and family, who had a brief word with Steve, and delivered a huge parcel of home made goodies to eat, I will of course save them all for him!!??

Whilst shopping in Glencoe I met Nancy a Lochaber Hill Runner who has been following the blog, it was great to have a chat, she is going to see if she can rustle up some company for Spyke in the next few days.

Theday finished really well with a huge and delicious meal of steak,with piles of veg' provided by Mike and his better half Lisa, thanks again it was terrific.

Day 21 Black mounts and the Beauty(s) of Glencoe.

A fairly leisurely start today, Spyke set off along the West Highland Way at about 08.15 hrs, the first rendezvous was going to be the Ski station, but our man had spotted a better way so we met up in Glen Etive. Mike Perry was with us now and he was to complete the next section over the Buchaille and into Glencoe with Spyke. Mike is a physio who has regualy treated Spyke so it gave them plenty of time to talk through his achillies problem and the treatment, the pair dropped down to the A82 smack on schedule. Mike wrote in the day book of an unbelievable experience , not sure if this was topping 4 Muros or keeping up with Spyke, who the hopped on his bike and freewheeled down to start the Aonach Eagach ridge. It was now 17.45 three hours later he arrived at the Clachaig Inn where a pint and meal just about sent him to sleep. Andy Potts and Richard Trenholm two uni, friends had driven up from Cheshire saw him for 5 minutes in Glen Etive and were now struggling to make conversation with a tired looking Spyke , as some consolation they did get in the splendid walk up into the lost valley.

Our heroes day however was not yet complete Mike followed us to our campsite and treated him to 10 minutes of fairly intensive massage, I am sure Spyke will appreciate it in the days to come but didn't look totally convinced at the time, it's a good job Mikes, lady wife was with us or the campsite patrons would have been treated to some high powered invective!! Mike is around for a couple of days so we should be entertained by yet more Spyke style squirming this evening I will keep you updated

Day 20 Ben Cruachan and South Glen Etive

An early start today Spyke was away from the" lay by with a view" and attacking Ben Cruachan at 07.00 hrs, yours truly just made the porridge, and grunted goodbye. I will update further tomorrow as no signal near the pick up point at Victoria Bridge.
There were some concerns about how Spykes' achillies would cope with this mega day, none of the contingency plans were required as he took in the Ben Cruachan range which was covered in a thin layer of wet snow, then feeling stronger as the day wore on, topped another seven summits before finishing on Stob a coire Ochair arriving at Victoria Bridge in pitch darkness. A truly epic day, proving he is back on song and looking forward to the second half of the challenge as numerically he completed half today.

Day 19 Ben Lui and others!!

The day began with yet another freezing cold bike ride with Alan from Rest and be Thankful to Glen Fyne, a change to the mountain bike and on up the now tarmac track to Glenfyne Lodge, and then up Binn Buidde, the support crew now reduced to Sam, Alan and JC are currently sat in the car park just South of Tyndrum with a very wet and gloomy view of Beinn Dhubcraig. I will update later* thanks for reading the blog guys we had well over 8000 visits to date.

LATER*

Sam and Alan have moved on, a huge thanks for all your help guys hope to see you again soon.

Spyke appeared from the cloud and rain at about 18.15, looking somewhat bedraggled but smiling, the achillies was not so sore, brilliant the remedies are working. After a good deal of soul searching he decided to bike down to the foot of Ben Cruachan, where we spent the night in a tasteful little layby, ready for the push towards The Black Mountains and Glencoe. The alternative was a hot shower at Pinetrees campsite, and top food at The Good Food Cafe in Tyndrum, we settled for JC chicken, with what was left in the stores plus a mountain of spuds!! and a wet wipe.

Spyke then spent a great deal of time writing a blog update which has disappeared into the ether!!!

Hey Ho it will no doubt appear soon.

The "man " left our layby vanishing almost vertically through the forestry that lies along the foot of Ben Cruachan at 07.00hrs with a huge day before him.

Meanwhile I am off for some REALLY exciting supermarket shopping.

Day 18 The Arrochar Alps.

Spyke is becoming quite concerned about his achillies which is swollen and sore, so decided that he would have a somewhat easier day. This began with the crossing of a now millpond like Loch Lomond, in the company of Sam, and Ian, a short cycle ride to Inveruglas, he and Sam then set off for Ben Vorlich the mammoth reascent to Ben Vane then taking in the remaining two tops to finish at the Rest and be Thankful pass some eight hours later. They were met between Beinn Ime and Beinn Narnain by Dave Hewitt from Caledonian Mercury who spoke to Spyke at length, no doubt we will see some comments on his website and hopefully in the paper.

As mentioned above the Achillies niggle is becoming a nuisance, however Spyke thinks he has identified the problem, and has taken some remedial action, watch this space for further news!!! Alan obtained a bucketful of ice from a local fish farm, that together with half the stock from a Chemist in Helensburgh should see him firing on all cylinders by the weekend in Glencoe.

Day 17 Ben More and onwards South.

An extremely cold night, was followed by an equally cold bike ride down to the foot of Ben More, Spyke arrived there at 08.15, and set off up the long trudge in company with a couple of walkers, who had read of his exploits an the web. He moved on over Stob Binnen and Stob Garbh, meeting Denise and Dale on Cruach Ardrain, taking in five more summits before descending to the campsite at Beinglas Farm. We were joined here by Sam, Alan, Ian and Charlotte, Sam and Ian are the support crew for the Loch Lomond crossing.

Spyke and Alan cycled down to Firkin Point, where Sam, Charlotte and Ian had the canoes waiting for the crossing, they duly set off, and made good time despite the rising Northerly wind. At about 18.40 they started up Ben Lomond initially struggling to find a decent line through the trees, meanwhile the weather was closing in, with fairly heavy snow showers all the way to the summit. This also mean't that the light was fading fast so Spyke and Ian decided that the return crossing over now very choppy waters was not feasible in the gloom, Alan and JC duly rallied around to Rowardenen, to set up camp amongst some local lads, rowdy but fairly good humoured, Spyke eat and then zonked out, while the rest of us were treated to some colourful language, and various football anthems.

Day 16 - Bridge of Orchy

Spyke cycled up Glen Lochay to Kenknock, then set off to Ben Hesgarnisch, and Chreag Mhor,he then met up with Dale to complete The Mamlorn Hills. They came off at Bridge of Orchy time 21.05, descibing the conditions as the coldest since the Cairngorms, Dale went for a well earned fish supper at Tyndrum. Meanwhile Spyke cycled to the Pinetrees campsite where he had to settle for JCs' infamous "summat stew" almost a midnight feast 23.45hrs when he was wiping his plate!!

Day 15 (cont')

It was good to meet up with Chris Upson he accompanied Spyke together with Denise Broome and Dale Colclough up and down the first peak of the day,the later three duly completed Chonzie, Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin and left Spyke to a cycle ride back to Kille, at the unusually early time of 19.00 hrs, we took advantage and had a splendid pub meal, JC had a pint to celebrate his first Munro of the round having been dragged up Chonzie, and Vorlich. The day was made extra special as we were treated to the sight of a pair of Osprey fishing in Loch Earn.

This morning 10th May, Spyke has cycled up Glen Lochay to Kenknock to finish off the hills to the East of Bridge of Orchy, Dale is joining him for the second half of the day, and I with the help of Denise have resorted the van jumble, hurrah!! it won't last!!

Photos from Week 2

Check out these great photos from Mike Nelson taken during Week 2 of Spyke's Munro Challenge:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikenelsonphotos/sets/72157624022402092/

Cairngorm Snow & Derry Cairngorm

Spyke's Munro Challenge 013, originally uploaded by mikenelson10.

Spyke's Munro Challenge 017, originally uploaded by mikenelson10.

Day 15 - Ben Chonzie, Vorlich & Stuc a' Chroin

By recent standards this could be classed as a 'rest' day. A mere 3 Munros combined with a some fairly straightforward cycling from Killin and back.

I trundled up Glen Lednock in the morning and caught site of Spyke arriving around 10.15am, just ahead of the 8-mile road race that was to kick off at 10.30am. Dale and Denise soon arrived, followed by JC in the van.

After a bit of faffing around and lounging the sun, we eventually took a leisurely stroll of Ben Chonzie with expansive views from the summit ranging from the Lomonds of Fife to the snow-covered Cairngorms to the Cruachan & Ben Lui hills.

The descent down the stony track was bone-jarring, and I got dropped off the back. My ankle wasn't feeling up to Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin, so I trundled back to Glasgow, leaving Spyke to cycle along the scenic south Loch Earn road.

Day 14 - Glen Lyon and Lochay

News from Spyke late last night was that he completed a set of 6 varied hills. This means he's done the following 6 out of 9 of the remaining hills at the heads of Glen Lyon and Glen Lochay: Meall nan Tarmachan, Meall Bhuidhe, Stuchd an Lochain, Meal Ghaordie,  Meall Glas and Sgiath Chuil.

Ben Chonzie, Ben Vorlich and Stuc a' Chroin are the plan for an easier day today.

Note that the days through the Bridge of Orchy and Arrochar hills have been re-shuffled to hopefully gain 2 days on the original 40 day schedule.

Day 13 - Schiehallion, Glen Lyon and Ben Lawers

News just in that Spyke completed 12 Munros yesterday to take his total to 102. Yesterday's outing took in Schiehallion followed by the Carn Gorm group of 4 in Glen Lyon, followed by the Ben Lawers group of 7 Munros.

Day 12 - Beinn a' Ghlo hills

Day 12 was duly completed over the Glen Tilt hills, which means Spyke has now notched up 90 Munros in 12 days, and has finished all the hills east of the A9. Tomorrow's outing will begin with the mighty Schiehallion before pressing westwards along the Glen Lyon ridges.

Day 11 The Tarf and Tilt hills

No post birthday celebration blues, clearly the ONE pint had not hung him over, it was however a later start than usual, as the equipment for a nights camp was sorted and loaded into an enormous rucsac, Mike Nelson the volunteer porter looked evermore concerned!! The amount of food for Spyke, was enough to make a Sherpa cringe, but 8000 calories a day is a lot of grub.

The day began in earnest with Spyke being dropped off with his bike at last nights finishing point in the ski station car park, then plummeting back down the road before, turning along the track heading towards An Socach. Meanwhile a bikeless Digby was left to scarper in as quickly as possible to accompany Spyke on todays' trip which will finish at the chosen campsite near Loch Mhairc.

I drove Mike to Blair Atholl, and watched him trudge off from Glen Tilt car park towards the rendezvous point, looking like a giant Sherpa.

Lastly a big thank-you to all who have posted comments, and from Spyke many thanks for all the birthday greetings.

Day 10 Driesh to Glenshee

Spyke, Digby and Mike left Glen Doll at 09.20 to take in Driesh, and the hills to the West, Spyke was on good form today so on reaching Glenshee the trio then climbed the Carn a Gheoidh, The Cairnwell and Carn Aosda before descending back to the ski station.

The night was spent at Braemar campsite, we all consumed a hearty dinner at a nearby hostelry, our hero even had a pint of beer (well it is his birthday) one to remember I suspect!!

Day 9 (cont')

Spyke, Digby Harris and Mike Nelson arrived safely in Glen Doll at 22.00 hrs, were duly filled with nourishment and quickly retired to a cool bed, ready to tackle Driesh, Mayar and the rest of the hills East of Glenshee.

Day 9 - Mount Keen and Lochnagar

This morning Spyke cycled from Linn of Dee to Ballater, and then on to Glen Tanar to tackle Mount Keen using the mountain bike. This adds on considerable extra distance compared with climbing Mount Keen from Glen Muick, so it was looking like being a late start for the Lochnagar group in the afternoon.

No news yet whether Spyke has completed the Lochnagar group of 5 Munros this afternoon, but hopefully he made it safely across to Glen Doll, and is still on schedule after the 2 monster days in the Cairngorms.

Day 8 - Corrour Bothy to Linn of Dee

After spending a night at Corrour Bothy, Spyke headed out for the big group of the main Cairngorms stretching from Ben Macdui to Ben Avon. Spyke was accompanied on this section by Mike Nelson, with Digby Harris also joining as far as Beinn Bhreac, before baling out with 3 hills to go. Ellie & I bumped into Sam and Digby at the van parked up near Linn of Dee last night, whilst JC and Alan were taking mountain bikes up to Derry Lodge for Spyke and Mike to use at the end of a long day.

PS. Spyke and Mike arrived at Linn of Dee around 10pm after a 14 hour day to complete the main Cairngorm group.

Day 7 - Glen Feshie to Corrour Bothy

Hi all Spyke left Glenfeshie yesterday morning (Saturday) to take on the mammoth task that is the Cairngorms, we had a brief call about 2 hours in, to say he was fighting a snowstorm, and advise Digby Harris and Mike Nelson, who joined us on Saturday afternoon to bring ice axes and sunglasses with them.

Mike,and Digby left Braemar at about 15.30 to join Spyke at the Corrour Bothy, Sam and Alan accompanied them to restock Spykes food bag, and supply a change of clothes before returning to Lin of Dee. They have now returned to the bothy, leaving just after 6.00 Sunday morning from Braemar to bring out any surplus kit before Spyke, Digby and Mike tackle the rest of the Cairngorm massif, in a mega day which is not expected to finish before 22.00 this evening . I will try to keep you updated but getting a mobile internet signal is tricky at times, a huge thanks to Chris Upson who is filling in many of the gaps utilising his extensive knowledge of the scottish hills and IT expertise.

The route so far...

Six days in, and Spyke has already climbed 43 of the 283 Munros. You can see from the map that Spyke is currently sweeping across the Central Highlands from left to right.

The next 2 days should cover the 18 Munros in the main Cairngorm group.

Then the following 4 days should collect the 29 Munros from Mount Keen (most easterly), over the Lochnagar group and through to the Beinn a' Ghlo hills behind Blair Atholl to finish all the Munros east of the A9.

Day 6 - Drumochter

No word yet from Spyke and team on today's progress, but the plan is to complete the 7 Munros on either side of Drumochter Pass, before cycling round to Glen Feshie to get in position for a 2-day stint through the Cairngorms over the weekend, with Spyke hopefully emerging at the Linn of Dee on Sunday night.

PS. These 7 hills have now been climbed, and Spyke and team are camping in Glen Feshie tonight ready to tackle the western Cairngorms tomorrow.

Day 5 - Creag Meagaidh and Monadh Liath

Yesterday, Spyke bagged the 9 Munros north of the Laggan - Newtonmore road: Beinn Teallach, Beinn a'Chaorainn, Creag Meagaidh, Stob Poite Coire Ardair, Carn Liath, Geal Charn, Carn Dearg, Carn Sgulain, A'Chailleach. Towards the end of the day Corbett-meister Manny Gorman tracked down Spyke and support, and penned the following report:

The Spyke is cruising.


With 5 Munros this morning already under his belt, he left Garva for Geal Charn about 3pm with his biking mate Alan, who despite only ever having had one 5 mile run before, was tricked into this 18 mile bogtrot to Newtonmore over 4 Munros along the way.


Fair play to Alan, he not only survived in his near slick treads, but actually enjoyed the hills, the rough ground, the bog and the remoteness in amongst the heavy cold showers scudding over from the west.


I had to work until 4 then drove to Shepherds Bridge and reversed their proposed route, cutting a few corners, and first caught sight of them topping Carn Dearg at bang on 6.30pm. We met up on Carn Balloch, along the broad ridge leading to Carn Sgulain, and trotted gently over the big snow patches and sopping undulating ground, enjoying the chat as we went.


Ptarmigan, mountain hares, plovers, deer - the ground was moving with wildlife, magic.


The sun came out, the wind was at our backs and we were moving steadily first to Carn Sgulain, then quickly over A' Chailleach, just to get caught in a wee shower before a very soft & wet decent down to Glen Banchor to meet up with his van and crew of Sam & John, about 8.45pm.


Spyke is in good form and will be glad of any company on the hills, so don't be shy, give the boy a shove along - he is looking forward to some of his mates coming north for the next week to help out over the still white monster of the Cairngorms and beyond. A task indeed.


Tomorrow he is hoping to do the west Drumochter hills first, then over to the east side of the A9 and stay high until Meall Cuaich, before returning to the road to pick up his road bike then spin around to Glen Feshie for the launch pad into the Gorms.


The route has changed from the plan a bit, and will probably continue to do so as the round progresses so keep checking the blog for updates.


Thanks for the run, keep it going Spyke - hope you had that beer...

Day 4 - Culra Bothy to Loch Laggan

On Day 4, Spyke ticked off the 7 Munros north of Ben Alder: Carn Dearg, Geal Charn, Aonach Beag, Beinn Eibhinn, Beinn a'Chlachair, Geal Charn, Creag Pitridh.

Today, Thursday 29th April, Spyke is planning the Creag Meagaidh and Monadh Liath hills north of Loch Laggan.

Day 3 - Fersit to Culra Bothy

News just in that Spyke and team have spent the last 2 days clearing out the Ben Alder group of 14 Munros with an overnight stop at Culra Bothy.

On Day 3, Spyke polished of the following 7 Munros in the Loch Ossian region: Stob Choire Sgriodain, Chno Dearg, Beinn na Lap, Carn Dearg, Sgor Gaibhre, Ben Alder, Beinn Bheoil.

Day 2 - Glenfinnan to Fersit

Spyke successfully completed a massive day today, taking in the 10 Munros running along the northern side of Glen Nevis. Many of these hills will still be covered in snow... Ben Nevis, Carn Mor Dearg, Aonach Mor, Aonach Beag, Sgurr Choinnich Mor, Stob Coire an Laoigh, Stob Choire Claurigh, Stob Ban, Stob a'Choire Mheadhoin and Stob Coire Easain.

Spyke reached Fersit at 8.15pm this evening, and is staying at the Tulloch Station Lodge tonight.

Day 1 - Ben More - Glenfinnan

Photos from Day 1

Following a relaxing day spent with the Tait family, who's hospitality was very generous, we camped on Saturday night by Loch na Keal. After a wet and windy night, Spyke set off up Ben More at 6am.

Spyke completed the descent off Ben More two hours later in still wet and windy conditions and was then onto the bike to Fishnish and canoed to Lochaline looking like a true professional.

Thanks to Tony Hammock from Sea Freedom Kayaks (www.seafreedomkayak.co.uk) the paddle across went extremely smoothly with thankfully no swimming involved !!!. Whilst myself and Jamie had a fun ride across in Iain Thornber's RIB supposedly to give moral support, but really there for the giggle and photo opportunity in case of any mishaps.

There was a quick porridge stop on the mainland at Lochaline and then a 56 mile bike ride to Glenfinnan, with Chris Upson generously taking the westerly wind in the latter stages.

JC and myself now sitting in the van with a short 4 hour wait for Spyke to come down from Sgurr Nan Coireachan and Sgurr Thuilm.

Photos will be loaded later as battery is low and in good old Spyke style he forgot to check if the cigarette lighter socket worked before we left !!!

Thanks to everyone for their help today.

ps Spyke returned from another wet and windy few hours on the hills at 8:15pm. Camping tonight in Glenfinnan. Heading for Glen Nevis tomorrow for a climb over the Ben and eastwards towards the Easains peaks above Fersit.

Exchange send off!

The send off at The Exchange went really well, many thanks to all who turned up to wish Steve good luck and have a couple of beers. A big TA!! to Craig who has contributed a couple of cases of Wadsworths finest, to our provisions, which reminds me, back to worrying about where it is all going to go in the van, and even more worrying how will we find when we need it!!!!

Canoe Training

Following his trip to Skye, Spyke took to the seas off the Gower to hone his sea canoeing skills, despite Sams' best efforts to drown him(sorry teach him capsize drills) he has returned home to hopefully complete the van conversion!!!!

Back from Skye

Delaying a planned Easter trip to Skye by a week was worthwhile. The aim was that Stephen Watts and I would recce the Cuillin ridge - my first trip on these hills - in preparation for climbing it on my round towards the end of May. After a couple of grey claggy days we had three superb days out on the Cuillin and Blaven. We finished the trip last Monday with a south-north traverse of the ridge, completing eight Munros in bright sunshine before the forecast cold front came in and we spent an hour or so in cold wind and clag floundering around trying to find the chimney that would take us onto the west ridge of Sgurr nan Gillean. We eventually got there and I was able to complete the last Munro of my first round. Barely time to celebrate at the Sligachan Hotel before heading south to continue preparations for the second round.

Last minute preparations

The trip to Skye was followed by a couple of days kayaking practice on the Gower peninsular. I'm just about getting the hang of paddling in a straight line but with the water in the Bristol Channel like a mill pond I've had minimal experience of paddling in rough water so I'm crossing my fingers for calm weather this coming sunday. If not I could be providing some entertainment for spectating supporters in the accompanying RIB on the crossing from Fishnish to Lochaline. I should at this point put in a plug for Tony Hammock of Seafreedom Kayaks in Oban who has kindly volunteered his services to escort me across.

Now back home, I'm tearing round trying to get all the last bits and pieces sorted out before we set off north on friday... (still) finishing work on the van (any suggestions on best way fit upholstered seat cushions to a rock'n'roll bed?), collecting the borrowed bike rack (thanks Mike) - now need a new number plate for it, van to go in for servicing wednesday, bikes in for servicing at the BikeShack in Stone (thanks Trev) plus a selection of spare parts, chasing up bits of kit, wondering how the growing pile of kit will ever fit in the van (and that's before I've seen the pile of kit and food shopping that John and Sam have accumulated)...

I have to say in some ways I'm just looking forward to getting out on the hills.

25 April fast approaching...

April fool's day and less than four weeks to kick-off. Deadlines are fast looming now for getting everything in place for the start. I don't think I quite realised how much organisation would be required when I decided late last year that I was definitely going to give the Munro Round a go.

The main headache has been the camper - it was clear early on that I would need a campervan to provide road support and with time on my hands after redundancy I decided to convert my own VW T5 van. Well, after a two month delay to get a pop-up roof fitted, I've spent some long days in the last month trying get it fit for the Round - I'm indebted to my Dad's many year's experience and his dry workshop. My estimates of how long some of the job's would take have proved optimistic - I hope this is not a sign of things to come...

Thankfully getting support has been easier. John Clemens has committed himself to drive the van for the duration of the round and act as cook, washer, driver, communications manager, etc. A fantastic help as well as saving me the trouble of managing the logistics of different drivers coming for different weeks. Many friends have offered their support on the hills as well as their invaluable assistance and advice in the build-up. Not least among the advisors, current Munro record holder Charlie Campbell has offered insights that only he could.

The Exchange Pub in Stone now beckons for more discussion of the round with John and Sam. Updates to follow...

Spyke's Munro round

In 2010 I have set myself the challenge of climbing all of Scotland's 3,000 ft mountains, better known as the Munros, on a continuous round. The stunningly beautiful Scottish Highlands is an area I fell in love with when I climbed my first Munro, the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor at the head of Glen Coe, back in April 1999. Since then this magnificent landscape has inspired a dream...

There have been a number of continuous rounds of the Munros since Hamish Brown first achieved the feat entirely on foot in the summer of 1974. The fastest round was set by Charlie Campbell in 2000 who climbed all 284 Munros in just 49 days – averaging a marathon a day whilst climbing more than 10,000ft!

My aim is to complete a round of the Munros under my own steam (on foot, cycling and paddling) and, maybe see if I can come close to Charlie’s incredible record.

I am keen that through my efforts I can give something back to this magnificent landscape, which is why I have chosen to promote the work of the John Muir Trust, Britain’s leading wild lands charity. I would encourage you to read more about the Trust’s work - http://www.jmt.org/home.asp and consider joining and becoming actively involved in protecting Britain's wild lands.

The round is in the early stage of planning. As well as working out the best route, there is a huge logistical task of organising the vital back-up support needed to keep me on track. I already need to thank the many friends who have kindly offered to come up to the Highlands and either accompany me in the mountains or provide support from the roads and at overnight stops. I hope to see many more of you out on the hills once I get under way.

The provisional plan is to start on 25th April 2010 setting off from Ben More on Mull early in the morning in order to catch the low tide for the paddle over to Lochaline on the mainland.