In April, 9 members of Girlguiding Renfrewshire walked 14.5 miles in the Glasgow Kiltwalk‘s Big Stroll – managing to raise an incredible £2300 for their county!

County president Sheila shares her experience of walking the Kiltwalk below:

“I took on the Kiltwalk as I thought it would be a good challenge, and I was keen to raise some money for our county to provide opportunities for our young members to access challenging, empowering and fun activities.

I was a wee bit apprehensive about taking part, although I’m quite active, I rarely walk 14.5 miles in one day! But we had a team of 9 volunteers from across Renfrewshire county and were all prepared to face the challenge together. We called ourselves “Team RenFriends.”

It was great fun! There was a fabulous festival like atmosphere. Everyone walking was doing so to help others.

Although I knew the other members of our team, I did not know all of them well. I loved getting to talk to them all as we walked.

Being able to take on the Kiltwalk together meant we could support each other through the tougher parts. There were times when it felt too hard to continue but we managed to encourage each other to reach the finish line. The team spirit was incredible and so was the sense of achievement when we walked arm in arm across the finish line. Getting a nice shiny medal was also a highlight!

I’d encourage anyone considering walking the Kiltwalk to get a team together, take on the challenge and enjoy the experience. Although do remember to do some practise walks and make sure to choose your shoes carefully!”

“Team Renfriends” about to take part in the Kiltwalk

Caroline, Renfrewshire’s deputy county commissioner also shared her experience:

“At first the thought of walking 14.5 miles did not fill me with excitement but with the encouragement of others I joined the team.

At the time the 26 April seemed really far away, but it’s frightening how quickly the day came around.

I’d undertaken a couple of big walks prior and those were a long way for me, so I arrived at the start line on Sunday feeling nervous. But being part of a team helped calm my nerves, we were able to have banter and they were very encouraging.

I had underestimated how far 14.5 miles was, but I kept focussed, enjoying the pit-stops and soaking up the atmosphere, always looking forward to the finish line and the sense of achievement I would feel afterwards.

2.2 miles from the finish line I had to get some medical intervention, but the medics strapped me up and sent me on my last bit of the journey. The last part of the walk was tough, and I knew my feet would have multiple blisters, but they will heal and I guess we’ll have another challenge in the pipeline soon.

I have been hugely supported by family, friends and other guiding peers and I am thankful for every single one of them. Team RenFriends I am proud of us!”

Team RenFriends after walking the Kiltwalk

Missed out on the Glasgow Kiltwalk? Don’t worry, registration to take part in Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee Kiltwalks is now open, and Girlguiding have created a pack with all the info you need to get walking ready! Find out more here.