Sponsored Walk 2013
Once again, our annual Sponsored Walk was held on the lovely Invercauld Estate near Braemar. Our thanks go to Factor, Simon Blackett, who always seems pleased to see us! The day was cool and overcast with just one shower of rain which didn't appear to dampen the enthusiasm of our wonderful supporters.
From the starting point at the marquee beside the former estate office, identified by rather smart AMRT banners for the first time, roughly 150 walkers made their way along the driveway of Invercauld Estate before taking to the track leading up Gleann an t-Slugain and the col between the waters of the Quoich and the Gairn.
The route then turned NE to follow the Gairn down to the bottom of the Bealach Dearg before turning south onto a path leading to the Culardoch track. This was a steep wee pull over a shortish distance! On reaching the track, some folk took the opportunity to ascend Culardoch (at 900m, so very nearly a Munro) and then it was downhill virtually the whole way for the homeward journey. At the last moment, the route deviated around Craig Leek onto a delightful grassy path in order to avoid the tarmac of the main driveway.
Everyone returned safely to the marquee where refreshments and fine pieces (courtesy of Alan Duffus at the Rhynie Bakery) were available.
A number of companies contributed to the success of the walk. At the Finish checkpoint, we were able to present every walker with a vacuum flask courtesy of Shell, a Buff courtesy of Craigdon and shortbread from the Sinclairs of Rhynie Bakery. Other spot prizes were also available from Braemar Mountain Sports, Cotswold Outdoor and Hilltrek, Aboyne.
First Bus - provided discounted coaches & Peter Vardy Land Rover https://www.petervardy.com - loaned a Land Rover
Thanks also to Invercauld Estate for welcoming us backand AMRT for marshalling the route with their typical good humour and sweeties!
And lastly, thanks to everyone who took part in raising c.£15k for MR funds. We couldn’t keep the Team running without your support.
Leaders in the various categories were:-
Over 18 yrs – Billl Cardno £1,065
14 – 18 yrs – Alec Corser £96
Up to 14 yrs - Nil
Best Team - Pterodactyls £825
