Sadly for me but happily for someone on standby, I have today withdrawn from TGO14.
Two reasons. First I can't afford the holiday time. I'm renovating a property in Dumfries & Galloway while I'm still in Qatar. I need all the holiday time I have to make sure the cottage is ready for my permanent return in the Autumn.
Secondly I have medical issues with my lower spine, the treatment of which could easily spill over into Challenge time.
I'll be back!!!

I'm so sorry to hear that, Jim.

I hope your back gets fixed - It can't be a good idea to load it up with a rucksack and stomp across Scotland - and your home gets fixed up too.

We'll miss you at Callater.

All the best to you,
Alan

Jim,

Sorry to hear your news. Hope all goes well with the back treatment and the cottage renovation. Stay in touch as D&G is not too far.

Bill

What Sloman said buddy.
Will raise a glass for you at Callater. Assuming my knees get me there. Course they will. Painkillers & Single Malt.

See you next year.

The Shooting of Dan McGrew will have to wait then ... unless of course a special guest appearance is on the cards?

Best wishes for a speedy recovery

Sorry you won't be on the Challenge this year. Callater won't be the same without you.

Ian C.

Dude. Missing you already.

Jim, we haven't met but you have my sympathy. As one of those on the standby list (now VERY close after your withdrawal) I have always felt ambivalent about wishing for a place, because it has to be at someone else's expense. Apart from the time and other commitment issues, I wish you the best with your back and hope you are able to return another year.

Tough luck Jim, best wishes for a full recovery from your back trouble.
Russ

Really sorry to hear you won't be joining us Jim.

Keep your chin up and we'll all look forward to seeing you on the Challenge next year.

Best wishes,

John