I really miss the TGO. The camaraderie is what got me. From the friendly banter on the train (Alan, Andrew & Lynsey)then at Mallaig (Fred do you want your picture?), Andy on the way to Sourlies who was willing to walk as slowly as I do. Clive and Grant (did you do any fishing?) who saw me right on the route to Glen Kingie, with help from Phil (I think) who steered me later in rain and gales to Tomdoun. Then a kindly, military map-reading genius who saved me from climbing Ben Tee quite unintentionally (wrong bealach). The challenger who offered a cuppa at Culra, which we couldn't stop for, followed by buying a round at Montrose instead (so sorry, name escapes me)but thank you. Such kindness from the hosts of Dalwhinnie Bunkhouse! Lots of friendly faces at Braemar sympathising with my "drama queen" limp (woe is me, torn ligaments). Highland hospitality of a room and meal offered when I only asked to camp and again a campsite on the lawn with dinner and a bath thrown in (dinner on the lawn, bath enjoyed in a more private location) Chris? I think who hovered discreetly when, just beyond Potarch I was inclined to lie down on the track and not get up again. The constant cheerfulness of Alan and Ian from Ireland who had me in stitches at every meeting, Di who tried to save me from getting lost (I got lost anyway) and Nik, who by asking "Are you Liz, folks have been asking if anyone had seen you?" made me feel like the most important person on the Challenge and got me into Ballater. Control (usually Roger) who re-routed me and said "There, there" whenever I phoned for reassurance. It has been a uniquely intense experience and there are too many incidents to mention but every smiling face, every kind word, every bit of encouragement did more to get me to the coast than the best kit and finest dehydrated mush could ever have done. Thanks to everyone who crossed my path. Do you think they'll let me on next year? PLEASE

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