Day 3: Tullochroisk (4.6 km 180 m climb 11 controls 115:48)

The only rainy day of the entire week, and really, I have no complaints. It wouldn’t have been Scotland without a bit of rain.

The walk to the start was long and steep (2500 m with 110 m climb). The first part was on a muddy, narrow, slanted trail, and then it got easier. I was pleased to make it through the first part without rolling back down the hill.

The course started in the woods (controls 1-5.5), and the rest of the course was on the open moorland. Hosed 1-2 and then the last part of the long leg from 5-6. My route choice down the hill to 6 was poor resulting in a steep climb down through the wet rocks and heather. I fell and smacked a couple of fingers on my left hand.

Better placement today – 65/73.

The download area was set up in a barn again today, though it was meant to be in the field near the finish in the large tents. However, a severe storm overnight demolished the tents, and the operation was quickly moved before dawn.

Before my start, the team from Sportident UK, patiently gave me a run down on some of the features of the software they have developed. Their kindness was even more remarkable because of the upheaval they had dealt with, which I did not know about at the time.

On the drive home, Roger had to dodge the sheep on the road.

While Sandy relaxed at the lodge, Roger and I went into Pitlochry for some internet time and had dinner at the Moulin Inn.