A shared purpose
First-timer Innes McKendrick from Inverness-shire was struck by the sense of support and community at the heart of the event
For me, plotting a route is a way of imagining the future. Looking at a map, satellite pictures, and mentally placing yourself on the terrain as you make each decision. How great will it feel to gaze out from this summit in broad sunshine? But what about in lashing rain? Drawing a line across the map takes seconds, but how will your feet ache after that sixmile roadwalk? Would you prefer wet shoes and a bog? It’s an exercise not only in knowing the landscape but in knowing yourself, and creating something for a future you to enjoy.
When I first entered the TGO Challenge, I felt intimidated. I thought I might be capable of putting together a route across Scotland, and hopefully of actually walking it. But the idea that expert vetters would check my homework to ensure my plans were up to scratch seemed terrifying. If I’d designed an impossible route, heading directly off a cliff and somehow ending up in Wales, I’d far rather find out quietly and keep it to myself.
Once I finally summoned the courage to submit my work though (right before the deadline), my worries were quickly silenced. The response wasn’t simply a pass or fail on the viability of the route, but an expertly detailed commentary of notes and advice. I immediately felt the comfort of another person’s investment in my journey.
That atmosphere of support and community progressed naturally onto the walk itself, so by the time I set off I felt more excited than anxious. I guess for experienced Challengers, this year might have felt lonely. As a first-timer, though, the shared sense of purpose and mutual desire for everyone around to succeed was what really struck me. Between the helpful phone calls to HQ and the friendly greetings when I crossed paths with other Challengers, it was impossible to feel isolated.
During lockdown I suspect we’ve all done a bit of living in the future, planning and imagining. I’m beyond grateful that I got the chance to translate my route into reality. And, of course, I’m already plotting the next one.
This was Innes’ first TGO Challenge.
“I was never lonely or bored on the Challenge. It could have been because almost every night there was someone interesting to talk to. There is camaraderie in the select band of people that choose to walk and camp out in the Highlands.”