By using a seemingly “weak” monster in Pokémon GO , his proud trainer was rewarded with a medal after 9 years, granting him every right to brag.
What has the Caterpie achieved? The trainer’s Caterpie and Reddit user Graulithe has been the steadfast occupant of a gym in Pokémon GO since July 26, 2017. On May 20, 2026, his trainer received the message that the little worm had returned to him, a whole 3,220 days, or about 77,280 hours later.
This not only makes Graulithe unbelievably proud, but it also rewarded him with the Platinum Medal “Gym Leader.” This requires a proud 15,000 hours of defending a gym. Just through Caterpie’s effort, he would have earned this 5 times.
“Let’s raise a toast to our boy.”
What bothers the trainer? The only somewhat disappointing fact about this strong success: Caterpie was dethroned from the gym only 2 months in advance before the Pokémon could break the 9-year reign.
But that’s not so bad. He is just happy to see his boy again: “The world has changed since then, but I will help him grow and evolve, so he can handle these tough times.”
Proudly, Graulithe presents his boy and calls on the community to raise a toast to him together.
What do other trainers say about this strong success? The community is clearly impressed by the trainer’s Caterpie and honors his effort with congratulations and praise:
“I take my hat off to this fighter – it’s high time to make him your best buddy!” writes minibois. But no need to tell the trainer twice. He confirms: “I will make it my best friend, level it up to the max, and mega evolve it.”
Fierce gym defenders need not be the fiercest Heiteira to remain champions for years. Do you also prefer to defend a gym for a long time? Or do you also follow the following law: An unwritten law in Pokémon GO leads to heated discussions – Do you abide by it?
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