Spyke sets new record for climbing all the Munros

Starting on Sunday 25th April 2010 with Ben More on Mull, Stephen Pyke (aka Spyke) set himself the challenge of climbing all Scotland's 3,000 ft hills, better known as the Munros, in a continuous round under his own steam - on foot, by bike and paddling a kayak.

On 3rd June, just 39 days 9 hours and 6 minutes later, Spyke touched the summit cairn on Ben Hope in Sutherland to complete the fastest round of the Munros. The previous record was 48 days 12 hours set by Charlie Campbell in 2000.

Spyke is keen that his journey through the Highlands can inspire and encourage people to join the John Muir Trust – the UK’s leading wild lands charity. Please take time to read more about the JMT and even if you decide not to join you can support their valuable work by donating to the Trust at the following Just Giving Page.

Monday, April 19, 2010

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.

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