Superman dropped by today at Athnamulloch, in Glen Affric.

I was at the Highland Cross charity duathlon event, and took over a thousand photographs. There are about 720 participants, and I managed to capture almost all of those that reached mile 15 of the walk/run stage. The event involves a walk, or run, of about 20 miles from Kintail in the West, to Glen Affric, over rough moorland tracks. From there, they have a 30 mile road cycle to Beauly in the East - crossing from one side of the Highlands to the other. It's been held since 1983, and the format's been copied by many other events. Fantastically organised, and supported, it's the biggest charity event in the area, and has raised substantial amounts for Highland medical and social service charities.

Quite difficult to enter the event, and you don't have to mad... though they have let me take part on four occasions, the last being in 2003. Have been taking photographs there for four consecutive years now. Think Superman has been at all of those too.

Had to get up and leave the house really early, to be there in plenty time. And there was a six mile hike along what's affectionately nicknamed "The Yellow Brick Road" - a forestry track that is the last part of the run/cycle. Beautiful morning, until I reached Athnamulloch. The rain started. It was heavy for a while, assisted by a cool NE wind, it kept falling (sideways) for the rest of the day. Everything is now somewhat moist. Challenging for taking photos too, though fortunately the front of the lens stayed dry throughout.

I hope I don't now qualify as a member of the Paparazzi. You see, I heard from some of the support team folk that a certain person that's recently become a celebrity, following her Sister's wedding, was taking part. Being something of Luddite by not having a TV, and not buying newspapers, I had no idea what this person looked like, until having a wee look on the Internet tonight. Checking through today's photos, it appears that I've taken two shots of her: with a big(ish) lens; without her permission; and without her knowing.

Bit wary of posting those shots on the Internet, as they're likely to be 'misappropriated'. Have offered them (free) to the Highland Cross folk for their usage, hopefully with the Lady's permission.

And NO, I won't show them here!