Reckon you could hike 22, 36.5 or 54 miles in the space of 24 hours? Gayle Ritchie speaks to the only person to have completed all three routes of the fearsome Cateran Yomp.
There’s no beating about the bush the Cateran Yomp is a tough challenge, both physically and mentally. Taking place from June 28-29, the event will see teams of two to six people starting in Blairgowrie and hiking a stunning circular route which takes them through Kirkmichael, the Spittal of Glenshee and Kirkton of Glenisla.
If the 54-mile gold route seems too daunting there’s also a 22-mile bronze option or the 36.5-mile silver alternative.
If anyone is an expert Yomper, it’s Blairgowrie councillor Bob Ellis. The 64-year-old is the only person to have completed all three routes, and he’s gearing up to do the gold again this year.
As one of the founders of the Cateran Trail in 2000, Bob knows the terrain like the back of his hand.
“I did bronze in 2011, gold in 2012 and silver last year,” he says. “For me, it’s not a race although of course there are people who do treat it as such. I believe it’s a case of competing against yourself. I did the gold route in just over 23 hours and I plan to beat that time this year.”
Now in its fourth year, the Yomp is tough for even the hardiest of athletes but Bob reckons if you’re determined and dedicated and prepare now with the right training, you will reap rewards.
Bob has entered the Yomp as an individual and hopes to team up with a partner a few days before the event. So what training tips does this seasoned Yomper who’s also training for a cycle from Land’s End to John o’Groats recommend?
“The trick is not to leave it to the last minute: get your training programme started now and you’ll be fighting fit in time for the event,” he says.
“It’s all about spending time on your feet. It’s not about racing from A to B as fast as you can. If you do that in an event like this you’ll pay for it during the later stages. Of course there’s an element of competition, but there’s nothing wrong with taking your time and enjoying it.”
During training Bob advises carrying slightly more than you will be taking with you on the Yomp that way you’ll feel lighter and be able to go faster once unburdened.
Another tip is to be realistic about your limitations.
“Most people will know which route they’d like to complete but there’s no shame in aiming for gold and dropping out at bronze or silver or, depending how you feel, you could start out doing bronze and continue on beyond it if you feel good on the day.
“If you can, jog the downhills and flats and walk up the hills. Have a go at stages of the trail in the months and weeks beforehand.”
Another major factor is to choose footwear with care, Bob advises.
“The underlying conditions are very diverse there’s tarmac, peaty paths and miles of bog. I think feet are the most vulnerable part of the body so whether you wear lightweight, three-season or sturdy boots is worth considering.
“It’s wise to change your socks three or four times, so invest in some quality hillwalking socks.
“The best thing is to pace yourself and make sure you eat regularly and take in plenty fluid. It’s the one event where you could put on weight as there are so many feeding stations with wonderful food like mince and tatties, burgers and chocolate cake.
“The Yomp is a great way to see some of Angus and Perthshire’s most beautiful scenery and no doubt the dreaded midges will spur you on!”
Over the last three years the Yomp has raised more than £1 million for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and the Alliance Trust Staff Foundation, which supports projects working with disadvantaged youths.
Find out more at www.soldierscharity.org/events/cateran-yomp