![Highland Cross 2013 (14)](https://i0.wp.com/bl6.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Highland-Cross-2013-14-960x720.jpg?w=450)
I had a slower run than I expected, the tough climb out of Glen Lichd sapping a fair bit of my energy as well as torrential downpours adding to the challenge of the day. I ended up doing more walking than I’d hoped to do, especially on the yellow brick road, but I was able to make up some time on the bike section.
Getting onto two wheels really gave me a boost and I enjoyed the 30 miles between Glen Affric and Beauly, having changed into my cycling gear (and waterproofs) so I was warm – if not completely dry – for the ride. The hills even at Aigas didn’t give me much trouble and I was even able to stay away from using my granny gears the whole way!
My team-mates Matthew McCann and Iain Blackburn were way ahead of me – in 4.54 and 4.32 respectively. Well done guys!
Read the full review of my first Cross in Active Outdoors this week.
* You can still sponsor me on my Just Giving page. Thank you!
![Highland Cross 2013 (6)](https://i0.wp.com/bl6.co.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Highland-Cross-2013-6-960x720.jpg?w=450)