HT550 - 2025

[padonbike]

https://dotwatcher.cc/feature/bikes-of- ... l-550-2025
Looking at what kit some are taking, I hope they check out the above forecast and re-consider...

You can spot the old time pros - using Etrex!

[Rapideye]

Good luck, mate. I'm hoping to camp around Blackburn Bothy tomorrow evening, so I might see some of the riders around there? Both sure how long It'll take People to get there, but I might pass a few at some point on the Corrieyairack Pass.

I'm a day early, aren't I? Doesn't kick of til tomorrow? Maybe I won't see anyone. I am slow though, so I wouldn't be surprised.

[Dyffers]

https://dotwatcher.cc/feature/bikes-of- ... l-550-2025
Looking at what kit some are taking, I hope they check out the above forecast and re-consider...

The 19 year old on his enduro bike is either going to have a great time or an awful time, but probably a good story.

[fatbikephil]

BBC is more optimistic, I think, Phil. Still not great. I've been keeping an eye on it as I'm up that way tomorrow.

Good luck, mate. I'm hoping to camp around Blackburn Bothy tomorrow evening, so I might see some of the riders around there? Both sure how long It'll take People to get there, but I might pass a few at some point on the Corrieyairack Pass.

Good luck to you too, Hyppy!

We are going to need it
Prepared for the worst hoping for the best

[Mike]

Just like to wish everyone a safe a happy ride! There’s still a wee niggle somewhere deep inside to attempt it again :)

[whitestone]

Just like to wish everyone a safe a happy ride! There’s still a wee niggle somewhere deep inside to attempt it again :)

Yes and no

All the best to everyone. Off to get the beers and popcorn for some dot watching

[Bearbonesnorm]

I'd just like to thank all riders for ruining what was turning out to be a cracking spring and early summer, thanks.

[fatbikephil]

I'll take full responsibility for that one Stu so my pleasure
'23 BB300

[Keith74]

Good luck to everyone taking part. Started to rain in Argyll today so hopefully top up some of the burns. On the down side the midges are horrific tonight so that shall keep everyone moving.

[AlasdairMc]

Good luck to everyone. I’ve dropped off a couple of American riders in Tyndrum, and I’ll admit I’m getting a bit of fomo having resolved not to race again.

However, it’s rained heavily most of the night and I’m comfortable in my camper van, so I think I’ll be fine not participating.

[HUX]

Have a great ride everyone, I'll be following. shame the weather has changed. is the a gpx for this year's route anywhere, I've got some leave coming up!

[whitestone]

is the a gpx for this year's route anywhere, I've got some leave coming up!

Looking at it, it's basically the same as the last couple of years apart from the omission of Bealach Horn. Alan asks for a donation to Trees for Life https://highlandtrail550.weebly.com/route.html for the GPX files. However there are few route "choices" as such - once you start on a track there's often no alternatives to lead you astray.

[gecko76]

https://trackleaders.com/highland25f.php

[landel]

Niel Copeland posted a video from the start line. The weather looks grim, hopefully they get some respite.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKBxuTNo ... _copy_link

[voodoo_simon]

Niel Copeland posted a video from the start line. The weather looks grim, hopefully they get some respite.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKBxuTNo ... _copy_link

Rain AND midges together, that sounds horrible

Good luck to all

[Johnallan]

Looks grim. I do hope the riders manage to enjoy at least some of it

[Rasta]

I noticed on Trackleaders that the Yanks are showing their State flags not the US flag. Is this a new thing or something I hadn't noticed before? A political statement?
Although the Canadians seem to do it as well.

[whitestone]

I noticed on Trackleaders that the Yanks are showing their State flags not the US flag. Is this a new thing or something I hadn't noticed before? A political statement?
Although the Canadians seem to do it as well.

Hadn't noticed that (tend not to look at flags ) might be a Trackleaders thing for US based races to differentiate the block of American/Canadian entrants. I seem to remember that Scottish based riders have had the Saltire for a year or two and English and Welsh riders also have their respective flags.

[whitestone]

24hrs in and the leader is on the track from West Merkland to Gobernuisach Lodge, not long until they start heading south Emma Bateup, the leading lady, is nearing the head of Glen Cassley.

Some very strong wind gusts forecast for this morning

[Keith74]

See Kerry has had a big off so be interesting to see if she keeps going.

[Richpips]

See Kerry has had a big off so be interesting to see if she keeps going.

Oof, that's some cut on her chin.

[boxelder]

I'm cheering Graham Cottingham on - often smashes the 200Km Reiver on a fixie, and a surprisingly nice chap for that kind of weirdness

[whitestone]

Has Phil Clarke scratched? His dot is currently at Dingwall.

Edit - TL has him as scratched. Probably ridden out to Dingwall to get the train back south.

[gecko76]

Looks like it unfortunately. What are the rules in the event of a mechanical? Are you allowed to take it to a bike shop?

[boxelder]

You can use whatever services are open to other riders, but must return to any point where you left the route.
So, yes.