Four Munros and More

Here is Dave's account of his 25 mile + challenge:

I completed my first and only GWC 25-mile race in 2019 and was all set to return in 2020 and then 2021, but alas COVID-19 put paid to that.

I was delighted however to take up the opportunity of running my own ‘virtual’ challenge and this was duly completed on Mon 19th July.   I settled for a mountain run/walk route I’ve been wanting to do for a long time – the Cairngorm 4000’ers (ie the four Munros over 4000 feet), but with a bit extra distance and a couple more hills to get as close to 25 miles as possible.  Given I also did my habitual morning run with our pet collie dog first, by the day’s end I’d certainly completed the target distance – and a bit more.

Weather was well-nigh perfect, if not a little on the warm side and I had to drink a lot during – and after – the run to stay hydrated.   I completed an anticlockwise loop, starting at the Sugarbowl car park above Loch Morlich just after 10am and ascending the following 6 Munros in order:   Braeriach, Sgor Lochain Uaine (Angel’s Peak), Cairn Toul, The Devil’s Point, Ben Macdui (dropping down to the Lairig Ghru via Corrour Bothy) and finally onto Cairngorm summit before the final run descent to the car.

Total running/walking time was 7hrs 50mins with several extended stops to enjoy some stunning views on a great Cairngorm day.    Distance covered was approx. 37km, with around (according to Memory Map) 2700m of ascent. 

A great day out on the hills and I’m very grateful to all my close and extended family who together have contributed a total of £170 for my sponsorship collection.

Below is a picture I took of the view from the summit of The Devil’s Point, looking northwards up the Lairig Ghru with the ominous massif of Ben Macdui on the right – the next mountain top on the route!