Day 33 - Lairg to Kinbrace

Day 33 aka "Bog Day". Today was a day few of us were looking forward to. Another 62km (38.5 miles) on the cards with a boggy section in the middle.

It turned out to be a day of many distinct parts. First up was a 21k road yomp uphill. This was scenic with good company - the only downside being the need to jump out of the way of forestry lorries from time to time.

Some WhatsApp images from our "boosted" colleagues on (or in) the bog section added to the anticipation of what was to come.

The bog section proved less dramatic than its reputation (one of the test pilot folks broke a leg in the bog) but we got through it with bog only up to our ankles rather than armpits.

The reward for the uphill bog hopping was emerging on to the col above Loch A Bealich which was stunning. (See video) Possibly one of the best views of the trip.

A long descent out past the lochs followed, to a very scenic late lunch pitstop. At this point footwear was changed, and I bid farewell to my Speedgoat 5s. They had split and so their final task was bog duty.

Refreshed and with dry shoes & socks the long yomp out on estate tracks began. I walked again with Jamie & David for a while, rang Helen, when I had a signal, then decided with about 14k to go, I should just get a wriggle on and run the remainder. Tunes on I got in a rhythm, and made descent progress.

Then with about 7k to go, warnings of thunder, lightning and hail at the finish (got to love a Scottish Summer). I wasn't sure weather to speed up to minimize possible exposure time, or slow down to let it pass. As it happens I got lucky and managed to make it to the finish & minibus just in time.

My luck continued, with a minibus departing just after I finished, and dinner was ready at the Hostel as we returned. Ash appeared with some (non alc) beers to complete a much better than expected day.

We are now finally getting to the point that we are "nearly there". About 62 miles left or 100k. 2 days to go! Beginning to believe...

And a million thanks for all the positive messages. Yesterday was a tough day so very much appreciated.