As the dust settles on the recent Dundee Kiltwalk it seemed only right that we caught up with Jenn Stewart, Head of our new Dundee office, to find out her top tips for the day and most importantly, if she would do it again!

What was it like walking the 25 miles from St Andrew’s to Dundee for your first Kiltwalk?

It was amazing! I loved walking the Kiltwalk, it was great to be able to catch up with friends and colleagues, exercise and most importantly give something back to the communities we live and work in by raising funds for such worthwhile charities. I was walking with my colleagues and a group of my very close friends where we were collectively raising funds for CLIC Sargent, a charity which means so much to us due to a family very dear to us receiving some much-needed support from this charity. The weather was a typical Scottish day, 4 seasons in 7 hours, however this did not hinder or dampen our spirits in any way.

The entire Dundee office laced up their trainers to take part in the Mighty Stride – how did you and your colleagues motivate each other during the walk?

Well, the chat in the office prior to the day was focused on who was going to be first over that finish line! We were also comparing how many miles an hour we were walking during our practices. Therefore, finishing was key, not to mention the order of finishing. We are not competitive at all here in Dundee! There was a great buzz, before, during and after the walk within our team.

We motivated each other with chat, stories, numerous selfies, which almost ended up with pile ups and of course jelly beans!! 

My family met us as a surprise at our JC Pitstop midway which was a really welcomed motivator to keep us going.

Do you have any top tips on what to wear to keep comfy?

So, what not to wear is new trainers. Lace up those trustworthy hiking boots or wear a pair of already worn in trainers with some padded socks! It’s great to prepare your feet in advance with compeed plasters if you are prone to getting blisters. I am speaking from experience!!

I’d also recommend taking a light rain jacket and thin layers so that you don’t get too hot!

Did you do any training walks before you embarked upon the Mighty Stride?

Yes, I used the training walks as an opportunity to catch up with some friends. Life is so busy that taking some time out for yourself is quite rare, however knowing that I had a 26 mile walk to prepare for, motivated me to do this. I did a few small 10 mile walks in the lead up, then increased this to a 14 mile walk and finally a 21 mile walk the week before. It was great to experience walks round the lovely countryside we live in.

What did you pack in your Kiltwalk kit, is it best to pack light or make sure you’re over prepared?!

Definitely pack light. The two things I would recommend are water and jelly beans. I had a camelback which meant you could have a little drink of water whilst you were on the move meaning you did not have to stop. The pit stops are amazing and the kind supporters and sponsors provide you with food, sweeties, crisps, fruit and home baking.

How did it feel to cross that finish line with the MC, Greg, cheering you all on?

Incredible, it really was amazing to walk over the finish line, such a feeling of accomplishment. We were welcomed and cheered by family, colleagues, supporters and all presented with a medal and a welcome glass of fizz from our wonderful JC support team!

So, would you do it again?!

Absolutely! I loved every second of it. Although, next year I won't wear new trainers!!