Through my gym, The Club Edinburgh, I had volunteered to lead a charity walk to Ben Nevis on behalf of Tumour Support Scotland in June 2023. I helped plan and publicise the walk through a Facebook page, writing introductions covering the routes (option for Carn Mor Dearg arete as well as Tourist Route) , expected conditions, fitness requirements, kit, etc. I also helped co-ordinate a number of shorter training outings to get to know the group and their fitness levels, etc, starting with a climb of Arthur's Seat and progressing to the Pentlands.
Today's route was the first in the Pentlands and was accordingly quite short (5.5km) with about 390m ascent, from Swanston to Allermuir Hill via Caerketton Hill. Most found it very easy, although one older member showed he would need to improve in fitness considerably if he was to manage the full trip safely in June. The group included 9 -year -old Maddie (very fit) and two dogs!
