The Pink Dots- A story from the Highland Trail 550

Join the 2022 the womens field as they take on the highland trail 550, a 550 mile, self supported bikepacking race in the scottish highlands.
The route is rugged and technical, with lots of river crossing and steep climbing. The scenery is stunning though and makes the journey so worthwhile. The scottish weather is always fickle and it didnt give the riders an easy time.
I wanted this film to show a different side of ultra racing, reflecting the variety or riders and not just focussing on those chasing podiums or records. Every rider who starts has a valid story regardless of result or finishing time, and there are many different ways to complete an ultra. Success might be getting to the startline, having juggled kids and a full time time job to get there.
The film was made with permission and guidance from Alan Goldsmith, the route creator and race director.

[@BernhardMasterson]

I love this. I am weary of the faster, longer, stronger, conquer narrative of so many adventure films. I much prefer the slower, thoughtful, persevere, reflect, accomplish and grow story line. Thanks for focusing on strong women and inner dialogues.

[@annieleoutside6044]

Thank you, im really glad that that came across. Theres nothing wrong with the other narrative, but there is so much more to adventures and racing than that and it was nice to have an opportunity to show another side

[@russellwoodcock1200]

This is the best ht550 video I've seen. Well done to all who have taken part, you're very inspirational. I'm going to do the ht550 in September this year, when I'm 66, as a retirement present to myself. Old but definitely not out!!!!!

[@annieleoutside6044]

Wow, what an amazing retirement present! I have new goals now for when i reach that age. I hope you will have an amazing time!

[@linesided]

Great video - I love a biker who is so into it that they forget to take off their helmet at a table full of food :)

[@eastyorkshiremamil]

Brilliant film, well done to everyone! I'm heading up to Tyndrum next weekend to do the full route over 8 days (hopefully!🤞). I can't wait!

[@annieleoutside6044]

Amazing! Have the best time and fingers crossed it warms up a bit for you!

[@randallmiller3842]

Nice one Annie, can’t imagine anyone better to do this story.

[@annieleoutside6044]

Cheers Randall!

[@andyhargreaves5329]

So great to see another of your videos. That you also completed this ride in the dead of winter is incredible.

[@annieleoutside6044]

Thanks Andy!

[@onemorecyclist]

What a fab and inspiring film. Kudos to anyone who makes the start line, let alone completes the whole trail. 🙂

[@annieleoutside6044]

Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@jameshounslow7013]

19/06/24 and KZbin’s Alan Gorhythm has just suggested this to me…. What a fab video! Really enjoyed it, thank you.

[@tellit_one3613]

Beautifully done! I like how you balanced both the challenges and pleasures of bike packing!! Dreaming of this route for next year! Thank you for putting this out and all the amazing pink dots!!!

[@adamarchie]

Thanks for this, Annie. Excellent cinematography. And the Drumbeg cat 👌

[@annieleoutside6044]

Thanks so much. Steve, the owner didnt want to be filmed, so the drumbeg cat was a great substitute :D

[@markmccusker2845]

Chuffed you've got another video out and it's great as usual! I don't even bikepack but I was enthralled by it!

[@annieleoutside6044]

Brilliant. glad you enjoyed it :)

[@thebiglimey]

Brilliant video Annie, especially great highlighting the women's field from last year. I think you just inspired me to get back home to the UK and tour that route!

[@annieleoutside6044]

Thanks Andy, it was such a delight to make. And a brilliant route to ride!

[@jabrobbins]

What a challenging ride! Cheers to all that finished.

[@annieleoutside6044]

Cheers Jim!

[@garyboyle695]

Nice to have you back. It's a good day when you pop into my in box.

[@garyboyle695]

Huge respect to everyone who started that, that was one tough challenge. Whether you finished or not, it really is the taking part that counts.

[@annieleoutside6044]

Aw thanks, thats so great to hear 😃

[@marshalbird2480]

Really enjoyed your video, brings back some great HT 550 memories

[@annieleoutside6044]

Cheers Marshal!

[@brian193a]

Awesome Annie, so well constructed. So nice be have been on the sidelines and see this come to fruition

[@annieleoutside6044]

Thank you 😊

[@daniellane5790]

Truly inspiring, thanks!

[@annieleoutside6044]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@weeringjohnny]

Great video giving a very realistic view of what the route involves. Is it usual for women to wear their cycle helmets in the bar and restaurant in Scotland? Is there some danger I don't know about?

[@stevia13]

Hi Annie ... quick question. Would I be right in saying a XC bike is the tool for HT550 for those at the pointy end How do you think you'd go with a heavier trail MTB? ..and is there anything in the thought that a shiny carbon framed XC bike might get beat up on the HT? LOVED THE VID, of course!!! 😊

[@annieleoutside6044]

Hi, the race has been won on a heavy rigid singlespeed as well as full sussers with all the fancy gear. So im not sure the bike is that important as long as its comfy for you riding long rough miles..

[@joecloss1452]

I'm not doing the whole 550, but i want to ride from Thurso to Inverness via either the coast or inland section of the 550. Which would you recommend? TIA