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Comment invited one of the locals who took part in the Etape Caledonia cycle event to share his perspective on it with readers...

This first mass closed-road cycle event was an experience to remember. After months of preparation the day had finally come, with a mixture of nerves and excitement we headed off to Pitlochry. Although the weather wasn’t great the place was buzzing with excitement with people of all shapes and sizes dressed in lycra riding an assortment of bikes.
The crowds cheering over a thousand cyclists on their way was a huge encouragement to us all, once on our way the enormity of the task set in with thighs burning after the first mile we wondered how we were going to make the next 80!
Helped along by my stronger and fitter training partner, Rory Macdonald and his brother Neil, we settled in to a good pace taking turns upfront.
With no-one having to worry about traffic this allowed for each participant to enjoy the fantastic scenery whilst manoeuvring the more technical aspects of the course safely.
I have personally never taken part in such an event before and was carried along by the enthusiasm of others and the banter between complete strangers all with one thing in common. The pockets of crowds at various towns and villages were a great support and helped motivate us once again.
All in all a fantastic day was had by all, and we are all looking forward to the event next year and with a bit of forward planning good communication and goodwill from all we will enjoy the event even more.

by Franny McGrath