Personal Preparation

Many contenders find it useful to compete in a programme of suitably selected hill races, designed to enhance speed, endurance fitness and appropriate fast manoeuvring skills whilst on the move.

Followed by trips to Lochaber for training on the key sections of the round, this will also facilitate route planning and final preparation.

It is highly recommended that contenders and pacers are familiar with the route in the 1st instance. They must also have enough navigational skills to ensure they are not hindered unnecessarily by low cloud, mist, darkness or poor visibility. 

Located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. 

You can learn, develop or qualify in an adventure sport of your choice. Their goal is to increase skill and knowledge within the bounds of safety by teaching / coaching specific outdoor activity skills at all levels.

They are a national resource to the outdoor industry and community.

Their expertise would be ideal in providing a robust knowledge and enhanced safety base for anyone venturing into these mountains either as a contender or as part of a support team.

Contenders must appreciate that food intake on a journey of this nature will be enormous; there is no place for compromise (you cannot function on empty).

Each section leader must ensure that they provide adequate fuel for themselves and the contender.

Food variety is essential, it must be interesting varied and functional, i.e. stick with what you are accustomed to, as you must eat little and often throughout the 24 hours.

Eating whilst on the move is something that facilitates keeping you on schedule.

Contenders/pacers must remain hydrated throughout the 24 hours: Knowledge of the location of essential watering sources is essential, and will eliminate unnecessary overloading.

The good pacer should know where to access water at any time, this knowledge will determine how much fluid may have to carry during each section.

Drink additives are advised and again it is recommended that contenders are familiar with what supplements they require and what the diluting doses are.

Make sure that the locals know of your activities, more so if your schedule involves your support presence during the night or early morning.

This support must be carefully planned and timed (estimated arrival time = stoves on and water boiling).

Not essential, but very nice to schedule in a short break to include a clothing/footwear change if necessary at ½ way.

This facility will most certainly set you up for the homebound section of the round.

A small 1st aid kit is essential to include at least a broad roller bandage and some plasters and be able to apply efficiently and effectively.

A contender should have a duty of care to themselves and their support teams, in the event of the unforeseen.

In the circumstances, carrying a small 1st aid kit is recommended to include at least a broad roller bandage and some plasters and be able to apply efficiently and effectively.

A head torch for use during the night section. An additional head torch plus spare batteries are highly recommended.

A good watch to record arrival times and splits on each summit.

A mobile phone to keep in touch with base and to be used in an emergency.

Please be mindful of your handset model, your chosen service provider and your specific location on these hills, that you may encounter difficulty in receiving a clear signal or reception.

Map and compass to facilitate navigation and route finding.

A small shelter bag to be used in the event being stopped.

Contenders wishing to attempt the round within 24 hours are advised to prepare a realistic schedule that will, within reason, show estimated arrival times on each summit and any transition areas deemed appropriate to their attempt.

The schedule should be specific to the attempting candidate’s  

 general strengths and weaknesses, appropriate to their journey 

on these hills during the hours of daylight and darkness.

The schedule should also include estimated T A arrival times 

to facilitate planning of the support teams at each transition area.

The T A team must also have everything in place and ready 

for a quick transition and departure of the candidates onto the 

next stage of the challenge.

The foregoing should facilitate a smooth 

transition at agreed transition areas and a comfortable 

and safe journey back to the Youth Hostel within 24 hours.

          Remember the clock is still ticking.  

To be used or carried in the event of requiring additional support whilst moving on difficult terrain.