The Caledonian Challenge: 

A SPECTACULAR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

(Here's what the website has to say...)

The classic challenge is to complete 54 miles in 24 hours. It is the physical equivalent of completing the London Marathon twice, PLUS: in terms of the total amount of up and down, two ascents of Ben Nevis - all without sleep. It is tough - but it is achievable!  

This epic journey will take you through some of Scotland’s most famous, remote, rugged and stunningly beautiful highland landscapes.  Starting at Gairlochy, north of Fort William, your team will follow the famous Great Glen Ways and West Highland Way footpaths via Checkpoints at Fort William, Kinlochleven, Glencoe Mountain Centre and Inveroran, before finishing the Challenge at Auchtertyre, inside the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.  

(Now here's the real deal...)

This has been an incredible experience!  Mac was on a team with three other guys, appropriately named, "Tuff e Nuff", and tough enough they were!  They completed the race in under 17 hours, and their team came in 11th out of 150, most teams finished around 23 hours, but some teams were hiking for 28 hours.  Mac said it was challenging, especially the last twenty miles because his feet were torn up and his socks were wet.  However, he felt good most of the time; it was just a matter of mind over body.  They met some really great people along the way and enjoyed the Scottish highland scenery.  Plus, they only hiked a tiny bit in the darkness as it doesn't get dark there until close to midnight, and he actually spent the night in his bed instead of on the trail which was a huge bonus.  He arrived home late Sunday night to an impromptu Father's Day celebration, but I think the real highlight was the greeting he received when he walked through the door. All in all a good trip and a great memory that will last forever!  Thanks to all for donating and supporting Mac and the cause.  The money will be distributed to different charities throughout Scotland.  Well done Mac!