I read David's excellent blog on his thinking around his first Challenge - ie

Some thoughts from a "first timer" that Alan refers to.

At the risk of eggs for the sucking of - here is my two pence worth of comment for those folk who are trying to decide what gear to take and what to leave out.

For sure the weather can literally go thru 4 seasons in the two weeks of the Challenge. Eg last year!

In deciding what to take it is worth thinking about what will keep you comfortable in all the conditions that you can anticipate.

In some circles there is a thing about carrying as little weight as possible. Don't believe it - there is such a thing as "crazy light".

What will work is the gear that is known and trusted.

It doesn't matter if you carry 20k or 15k or 10k or 5k or 1k. Or more! Or, if you carry imperial weight!

If it will work for you - then that is the best gear to take.

If you feel more comfortable with a tent - but think that a tarp will be lighter: yes, it will, but will you be comfortable with it in the rain/snow/wind/cold etc? If you prefer boots, but, think you should be wearing trainers - think twice.

It really doesn't matter what you take: it's all about enjoying the experience.

The most important thing to take on the Challenge weighs nothing and costs nothing:

Positive Mental Attitude.

Thats my two pence worth.