Trophy time for hikers from Dunblane BBs
Teams impress in 30-mile challenge
Nine boys from Dunblane Boys’ Brigade Company took home trophies in a national team hiking competition at the weekend.
For 10 years out of the past 11, boys from 25th Stirling (Dunblane) have taken home the trophy for the Junior category of the 30-plus mile hike for teams in which all members are 14 or under. In addition, they were runnersup both in that Junior category and also in the senior hike.
Embarking on Saturday morning from Eaglesham, Renfrewshire, 30 teams from Boys’ Brigade and Scout groups across Scotland headed out on to the moors to navigate their way around five lengthy stages each day, with optional diversion to ‘via’ locations for bonus points and a mental or physical team challenge to complete at each checkpoint.
Dunblane’s teams included five boys doing the hike for the first time.
P7 pupil Scott Robertson, one of those taking part for the first time, said: “My big brother did the hike for a few years and talked about it a lot.
“I knew we could do well but I am really pleased for my team to finish second in the Junior hike on our first try.”
Oliver Brooks, who was in the senior team and taking part for the fourth time, added: “The hike is a brilliant event and I love taking part. You really have to push yourself hard over the two days and 30 miles but you have a team to help and to help you.”
Depute First Minister John Swinney was on hand to present the prizes on Sunday afternoon after watching the infamous final water assault course. This is the Kilbryde Hike’s 50th anniversary and local MSP Linda Fabiani and MP Lisa Cameron were also present to congratulate everyone on the achievement of just completing such a challenging course.
Dunblane BB Captain Fraser Boyd said: “We are hugely proud of the boys’ achievements at the Kilbryde Hike again. They put in a lot of effort training beforehand as you can’t just turn up on the day.
“The skills of map-and-compass navigation, camp craft and cooking outdoors are all essential. But primarily the hike - like the BB - is about building independence, making decisions as part of a team, being self-sufficient and independent and showing determination and resilience. Everyone who took part has improved these for him or herself and we’re delighted some have also gained some silverware into the bargain.”