Between 3 and 4 June, a number of teams from Lowland Reserve and Cadet units took to the Perthshire countryside for this year’s Cateran Yomp.
Known as one of the toughest events of its kind, Cateran Yomp challenges participants to hike continuously through the foothills of the Cairngorm Mountains, covering as much as 54 miles within 24 hours. Funds raised from Cateran Yomp go to ABF The Soldier’s Charity, which has been supporting soldiers, veterans and their families since 1944.
This year, the teams of ‘Yompers’ included Reservists from 32 Signal Regiment and the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry (SNIY), as well as members of the Professional Support Staff (PSS) from West Lowland Battalion Army Cadet Force.
Lieutenant Ed R from the SNIY team said: ‘An E Squadron Team consisting of myself and four colleagues completed the Cateran Yomp Gold challenge, which involved walking the full 54-mile course.
‘Together we completed the Yomp in 22 hours and 13 minutes with a moving time of 17 hours 55 minutes, and raised over £2000 for ABF.
‘The Yomp was incredibly tough at times, but completing it in under 24 hours was the goal that we were over the moon to have succeeded in. We were supported throughout by Lance Corporal Dinnie and Trooper McCaffie; they were essential to our success and I’d like to thank them on behalf of the team.’
The 32 Signal Regiment team also put in a heroic effort for Cateran Yomp, with their team of 15 soldiers and officers coming away with six Gold awards, eight Silver and one Bronze. The team also succeeded in raising over £8,000.
‘My aim was to develop the physical resilience, mental robustness and leadership qualities of the soldiers I serve alongside in the Army Reserve,’ said Major Gordon Tibbetts, Officer Commanding of 32 Signal Regiment’s 51 Signal Squadron.
‘The Army Reserve has so much to offer potential recruits: fun, challenging and purposeful training; industry recognised qualifications; sport, travel and most importantly, you make friends for life, all whilst being paid.’
