ScotPLOD FAQ's

If the answer to your question is not here then drop us a line and we will send you a reply as soon as we can. Email: ccooper@action.org.uk

What time do I need to be at the start point?
Your team needs to be on site at the MacDonald Cardrona Hotel for registration which is open from 9.30pm through until 10.30pm. A full briefing, which all must attend, will be held at 11pm. Walking starts at midnight.

Can I arrive earlier in the day?
We will be on site at the Cardrona Hotel throughout the afternoon on Friday 12 June. Feel free to come along for a chat and relax before your big challenge begins.
www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/cardrona

Will I be safe?
Yes, as long as you have prepared, follow our advice and stick together as a team. You will receive a full briefing before the walk, including advice on what to do in an emergency. The Tweed Valley Mountain Rescue Team (TWMRT) will set up their base camp/communications centre in the grounds of the Cardrona Hotel. The TWMRT will be keeping an eye on all participants as they pass through the checkpoints. 

Do I need to be an expert map reader?
No, but it will help if you have team members who understand how to read a map and a compass. You will be provided with written route instructions. Particularly tricky sections of the route will be marked for you.
Each team should have one copy of OS Map Landranger 73.

What do I do if one of my team drops out?
Let us know immediately. If you have a replacement walker make sure we have their full details. Please note: If you start with less than a full team of five walkers, or if team member/members drop out then points will be deducted.

How fit do I need to be?
The terrain is tough in parts and depending on fitness levels, some teams will be on the trail for up to 17 hours. If you want to enjoy this event (and finish) then we recommend that you increase your fitness levels and endurance training properly.
See our Training Guide

What kit do I need to carry?
Checkout the recommended list of kit items that you & your team should be carrying. Keep your kit to the essentials and avoid doubling up on basic items. Your main items will always be water, basic first aid kit, spare warm and wet weather clothing, a torch (at night), route maps and mobile phones.
See our Kit List 

Will I need special clothing/footwear?
We recommend that you have a good pair of walking boots with ankle support. Make sure you have broken them in! Specialist wicking tops are advisable and make sure you have a selection of clothing items to keep you warm or cool, depending on the conditions. Be sure to have checked the recommended Kit List for precise details.

What is the role of the support driver?
Your support driver is an important team member. He/She will keep you supplied with food, hot drinks, water and changes of clothes etc. If a team member drops out it will be the driver's responsibility to report this and to transport them back to base camp.

Will our support driver need a special vehicle?
No, any roadworthy vehicle will do the trick. You will just need to make sure it is big enough to fit in your supplies and any spare kit.

What do the support drivers do between checkpoints?
Well, if they have any sense they will probably be grabbing 40-winks where they can! Drivers will never be far from base camp, where they will find tented facilities for sleeping, grabbing a hot drinks or just chilling with fellow drivers!

How are the points worked out?
Team performance will be assessed as follows:-

Finishing Position – First team home gets the most points and the last team home gets the least points.

However, it is not all about being the fastest; you will need to work out your tactics for success. Challenge points on offer for:
Navigation Challenge - This will test your map reading and compass skills.
King of the Mountain Challenge - You will have the option of obtaining more points by climbing to the summits of three peaks. This will be done as a team.
Team Quiz – This is for walkers and drivers. As well as earning you valuable extra points, some of the brainteasers will help to take your mind off the long, long walk!
You will be issued with the more precise mathematical breakdown of items that earn you points. It will be up to you to decide if the en route challenges will improve your place on the scorecard.
Please note the above is based on the 2008 challenge – if changes are made you will be advised.

What is the gala dinner all about?
Well, mainly to feed you and to let you relax. We will of course want to present a few prizes for effort, as well as announcing the name of the 2009 ScotPLOD Champions.

Do you cater for special dietary requirements?
Certainly, for the celebration dinner, we will be collecting this information from you before the event. However whilst you are on the walk you will need to make sure that your support driver has the correct items for you.

Will I have to pay for anything once I get to the hotel?
Your team entry fee and your commitment to raise a team target of at least £1000 means that you will have a room at the hotel (based on two sharing), gala dinner evening meal and breakfast all inclusive. As hotel residents, you will be able to make use of many of their excellent facilities.