In the hat
A pointless cycling odyssey into the farthest corners of the Scottish football treasure chest, guided by the Scottish Cup.
The rules
They are my rules, and mine alone. Starting with preliminary round 1, I follow the Scottish Cup. Ties and destination dictated by previous round victors, exploring the towns, the grounds and the clubs.
How?
The journeys will be completed by train and bike. It is intended that no cars will be used. I’d like to ride the whole way, but I am too old. And I have other stuff to do.
Why?
Why ever not?
My butterfly-like flitting between clubs has, for good reason, been the source of some ribbing. So why not take on something that allows me to change club many times in one season, and end up supporting the winners.
When?
The Scottish Men’s Cup. Season 2024/25. The first round is on 10th August 2024, and the final is on the 24th May 2025.
Where?
All we know is where the journey ends, Hampden Park, Glasgow. Everything before that is an adventure.
Who?
Just me, but happy for anyone to join in.
The Journey.
Words and Pictures
I am hoping that in bringing together a fondness for football, cycling and an interest in the niche, some might say fun, facts about a place, that new and interesting discoveries can be made and shared. There are a lot of photos. Photos are almost invariably mine, unless otherwise credited.
“Little do ye know your own blessedness; for to travel hopefully is a better thing than to arrive, and the true success is to labour.”
Robert Louis Stevenson
Virginibus Puerisque, 1881.
In the Hat 