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Thursday 23 December 2010
Lapland Adventure
Thursday 23rd December
We have now been in lapland for 4 days and its been an amazing adventure so far.
With all the delays at the airport and the continuing freak weather conditions we decided to leave earlier than anticipated and am i glad we did. I have never seen the M40 like this before only 2 faint tracks to guide you the other lanes all covered in deep snow overtaking was an adventure in itself, but we made it after 3 hours which is good as some families who we have met took 2 days to get there.
Delayed at Gatwick but only 2 hours so pretty good really although the kids didn't think so, we arrived in lapland at about 8pm straight off the plane onto the tarmac into a nice cool -29 the back of your throught literally burnt if you breathed to hard or deeply.
So deep into the winter wonderland for another hour and we arrive at Jerris Hotel time to get the cold weather gear and then on to our log cabin which surprise surprise is the furthest away from the hotel, we are however greeted by the most amazing sight 3 reindeer in the woods outside our front door digging in the snow looking for food, the kids think were in narnia, the surroundings are truly breathtaking, and you have to see them to believe them.
Day 1
Were late for breakfast and lost in the woods not a good start but we finally make it back to the hotel a quick drink and were off snowshooing into the woods only a mile or so to a open camp fire where we have hot chocolate and the kids roast marsh mallows over the fire, the afternoon consists of sledging down a very steep slow and trying to avoid the trees great fun.
Day 2
We visited a reindeer farm today and learnt all about the traditions of the lapish farmers, a traditional lapish lunch it seems a bit harsh eating the animals we came to see but thats life.
Then a sled ride through the forest pulled by te reindeer again more spectacular scenery.
Day 3
By far the best day so far Huskie sleding through the forests 9km absolutely amazing everyone should do this once in there life. The raw power of these dogs is unbelievable they have 2 speeds very fast and stop, one of the most amazing days of my life and i want to do it again.
No northern lights yet but conditions are good tonight so fingers crossed.
Sent from my HTC
We have now been in lapland for 4 days and its been an amazing adventure so far.
With all the delays at the airport and the continuing freak weather conditions we decided to leave earlier than anticipated and am i glad we did. I have never seen the M40 like this before only 2 faint tracks to guide you the other lanes all covered in deep snow overtaking was an adventure in itself, but we made it after 3 hours which is good as some families who we have met took 2 days to get there.
Delayed at Gatwick but only 2 hours so pretty good really although the kids didn't think so, we arrived in lapland at about 8pm straight off the plane onto the tarmac into a nice cool -29 the back of your throught literally burnt if you breathed to hard or deeply.
So deep into the winter wonderland for another hour and we arrive at Jerris Hotel time to get the cold weather gear and then on to our log cabin which surprise surprise is the furthest away from the hotel, we are however greeted by the most amazing sight 3 reindeer in the woods outside our front door digging in the snow looking for food, the kids think were in narnia, the surroundings are truly breathtaking, and you have to see them to believe them.
Day 1
Were late for breakfast and lost in the woods not a good start but we finally make it back to the hotel a quick drink and were off snowshooing into the woods only a mile or so to a open camp fire where we have hot chocolate and the kids roast marsh mallows over the fire, the afternoon consists of sledging down a very steep slow and trying to avoid the trees great fun.
Day 2
We visited a reindeer farm today and learnt all about the traditions of the lapish farmers, a traditional lapish lunch it seems a bit harsh eating the animals we came to see but thats life.
Then a sled ride through the forest pulled by te reindeer again more spectacular scenery.
Day 3
By far the best day so far Huskie sleding through the forests 9km absolutely amazing everyone should do this once in there life. The raw power of these dogs is unbelievable they have 2 speeds very fast and stop, one of the most amazing days of my life and i want to do it again.
No northern lights yet but conditions are good tonight so fingers crossed.
Sent from my HTC
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Heading Home
The one thing you always look forward to on finishing a challenge is going home, its the best place to gather your thoughts and get back into a normal routine. Although I am a bit nervous about this trip as I have been up all night with sickness and dioreea not pleasant at all, the last meal we had at the farewell party was a curry at an irish bar, and that just tipped my body over the edge even more.
One thing i have learnt over these 99 days is that you have to give a little respect to each one of the challenges you are doing and with the right preparation and mental attitude anything is achievable. Yes your body is telling you its had enough but its the mental toughness that see's you through.
It has also taught me that life doesn't have to be this way and by that I mean the ease in which we all get stuck in our daily routines and if we all just stepped back and took a few minutes we could enrich our lives so much more by just doing something different every now and again.
Looking forward to coming home.
One thing i have learnt over these 99 days is that you have to give a little respect to each one of the challenges you are doing and with the right preparation and mental attitude anything is achievable. Yes your body is telling you its had enough but its the mental toughness that see's you through.
It has also taught me that life doesn't have to be this way and by that I mean the ease in which we all get stuck in our daily routines and if we all just stepped back and took a few minutes we could enrich our lives so much more by just doing something different every now and again.
Looking forward to coming home.
Monday 8 November 2010
The Day After
Having slept reasonably well last night, my legs feel like they are not part of me its weird as I felt nothing like this on the mountains even after the Month Blanc descent once I'd spent the night in the oxygen chamber I felt fine, this time I suspect my legs will take a lot of time to recover.
So my 99 days of physical exursion are over and on many occasions I had felt like quitting particularly on Mont Blanc and the NY Marathon. When I look back though it wasn't just the 99 days it was the training we had to put in to stand a chance of pulling this challenge off, this started way back in March of this year and then really intensified in June the Month before our first departure, most of this training was enjoyable the only part I can truly say I Didn,t enjoy was October when the marathon training really kicked in, but I am glad I did it as without it I would have never have finished in under 5 hours. I am also aware of the personal sacrifice you have to dedicate to make such challenges achievable I am eternally grateful for my family's support during this past year, I know they are proud, and my dad well I miss him dearly but truly believe that when I needed him during some dark times he was watching over me.
A good friend sent me a congratulatory text simply stating I had achieved more this year than most people attempt in a lifetime. I guess I can relate to that in as much as in today modern world its very easy to settle back and fall into routine and forget about the things you could be doing to enrich your life.
For me now well rest is the order of the day, my body is well and truly Knackered at the moment and suspect it will take some time to recover.
Oh and one last point April, Simon and myself managed to get our names in the New York Times all finishes under 5 hours did. I finished in 30250th place out of 45000 but for me it wasn't a race for places just a race to finish.
So my 99 days of physical exursion are over and on many occasions I had felt like quitting particularly on Mont Blanc and the NY Marathon. When I look back though it wasn't just the 99 days it was the training we had to put in to stand a chance of pulling this challenge off, this started way back in March of this year and then really intensified in June the Month before our first departure, most of this training was enjoyable the only part I can truly say I Didn,t enjoy was October when the marathon training really kicked in, but I am glad I did it as without it I would have never have finished in under 5 hours. I am also aware of the personal sacrifice you have to dedicate to make such challenges achievable I am eternally grateful for my family's support during this past year, I know they are proud, and my dad well I miss him dearly but truly believe that when I needed him during some dark times he was watching over me.
A good friend sent me a congratulatory text simply stating I had achieved more this year than most people attempt in a lifetime. I guess I can relate to that in as much as in today modern world its very easy to settle back and fall into routine and forget about the things you could be doing to enrich your life.
For me now well rest is the order of the day, my body is well and truly Knackered at the moment and suspect it will take some time to recover.
Oh and one last point April, Simon and myself managed to get our names in the New York Times all finishes under 5 hours did. I finished in 30250th place out of 45000 but for me it wasn't a race for places just a race to finish.
Finished
For me the time wasn't important well as long as it was sub 5 hours that's all that matters and that was going to be a challenge with my torn hamstring, the guy from the New York Fire Department advised me it was possible I just needed to take small strides so that's what I did.
I managed to keep up with Simon and April to mile 8 but after that my leg was hurting so I dropped the pace. I also made a mistake with my gel packs in that I hadn't run on them previously, they ended up giving me stomach cramps which was very unpleasant.
At mile 12 I just wanted to pack in everything hurt and it was at this stage I started to worry I couldn,t complete this challenge, especially knowing I had more than half the race to do.
Still I kept plugging away and when I hit mile 18 I started believing again and as I said its the crowd that brings you home. I thought it was going to be lonely crossing the line on my own but everyone was congratulating each other afterall we had all gone through the same torture.
So 3 the challenges in 99 days are now complete what next, nothing is the answer my body is Knackered and I intend to spend quality time with my family.
Sunday 7 November 2010
Marathon Day
Sunday 7th November 2010
Well the final day of the challenges is upon us and surprisingly this is the challenge I fear the most. Rachel thinks its just a run in the park if only it were that easy.
I slept reasonably well until 1.30am and we got an extra hour as the clocks went back but then it was dozing until 5 I must have peed 6 times my nerves are running away with me on this, I think this will be a lonely run.
Although everything you here about the crowds cheering you on should help. This is a typical example on how the usa works apparently their are sections on the run where the crowds are thin through the commercial districts so to combat this the marathon organisers get sponsored cheerleader to cheer people along, its not cricket but typically american.
I am now sitting on the new york fire department bus waiting to be transported to staten island.
I hope lady luck is with me today and my hamstring holds together, if not its going to be a long and painful day.
Both Simon and April seem very confident I hope I don't let the team down.
Its now 7am so been up for 2 hours already with another 3 hours 40mins to go to our official start time, its cold around 5 degrees currently but should walk up by midday.
I can now do no more other than control the nerves and be sensible, and maybe have a little prayer and ask for a little help from dad.
My plan is to think about Ethan he is doing his first tkd tournament and I can't imagine how he's feeling' especially with me not being their, good luck son I'm thinking of you.
Well the final day of the challenges is upon us and surprisingly this is the challenge I fear the most. Rachel thinks its just a run in the park if only it were that easy.
I slept reasonably well until 1.30am and we got an extra hour as the clocks went back but then it was dozing until 5 I must have peed 6 times my nerves are running away with me on this, I think this will be a lonely run.
Although everything you here about the crowds cheering you on should help. This is a typical example on how the usa works apparently their are sections on the run where the crowds are thin through the commercial districts so to combat this the marathon organisers get sponsored cheerleader to cheer people along, its not cricket but typically american.
I am now sitting on the new york fire department bus waiting to be transported to staten island.
I hope lady luck is with me today and my hamstring holds together, if not its going to be a long and painful day.
Both Simon and April seem very confident I hope I don't let the team down.
Its now 7am so been up for 2 hours already with another 3 hours 40mins to go to our official start time, its cold around 5 degrees currently but should walk up by midday.
I can now do no more other than control the nerves and be sensible, and maybe have a little prayer and ask for a little help from dad.
My plan is to think about Ethan he is doing his first tkd tournament and I can't imagine how he's feeling' especially with me not being their, good luck son I'm thinking of you.
Saturday 6 November 2010
Registered
We walked across to the Ing NY running expo to get our official running numbers and microchip.
The expo was fairly busy and the reality is this is going to happen tomorrow morning my time about 3'40pm uk time.
Registered
We walked across to the Ing NY running expo to get our official running numbers and microchip.
The expo was fairly busy and the reality is this is going to happen tomorrow morning my time about 3'40pm uk time.
Saturday Morning
Last night about 14 of the party went to Tony's pasta bar its was interesting to meet new people and the reasons for them undertaking the forthcoming torture. I was also pleased in a way to hear that I wasn't the only one attempting to run with an injury, quite a lot of the group have the same aspirations on time around 4.5 hours so a lot of us could all be running together. Well as long as my leg holds up.
Then theirs the die hard runners, one of the guys ran in fall BA gear last year and posted a time of 4.5 hours an amazing achievement, it really puts it into perspective as to where we are with our training.
One thing is for sure these guys can drink, beer, wine, more beer and more wine, I guess the champagne will be popped after the race, however at 4am uk time it was time for the lightweight to call it a day, not hot toddy nightcaps for me as the hotel is very basic, slightly worrying that the door on my room still shows the scars of being kicked in previously.
I managed to get around 6 hours sleep last night, and finally stirred myself into action just after 7 so that I can continue my ritual routine morning and night of stretching out my hamstring it seems to be getting easier until I run on it. Today I have to register at the expo and then try and relax, I have not done the training run that was available this morning as I don't want to push my leg to much.
The weather forecast for tomorrow is about 45degrees with bright sunshine so cold but bright.
I have decided to run in my leggings as it will keep my hamstring supported and protect me from the cold.
I feel very nervous at this moment in time I have never been very good at waiting really just want to get into it.
Then theirs the die hard runners, one of the guys ran in fall BA gear last year and posted a time of 4.5 hours an amazing achievement, it really puts it into perspective as to where we are with our training.
One thing is for sure these guys can drink, beer, wine, more beer and more wine, I guess the champagne will be popped after the race, however at 4am uk time it was time for the lightweight to call it a day, not hot toddy nightcaps for me as the hotel is very basic, slightly worrying that the door on my room still shows the scars of being kicked in previously.
I managed to get around 6 hours sleep last night, and finally stirred myself into action just after 7 so that I can continue my ritual routine morning and night of stretching out my hamstring it seems to be getting easier until I run on it. Today I have to register at the expo and then try and relax, I have not done the training run that was available this morning as I don't want to push my leg to much.
The weather forecast for tomorrow is about 45degrees with bright sunshine so cold but bright.
I have decided to run in my leggings as it will keep my hamstring supported and protect me from the cold.
I feel very nervous at this moment in time I have never been very good at waiting really just want to get into it.
Friday 5 November 2010
Arrived in New York
Friday 5th November 2010
We have just arrived in New York and are now aboard the bus on our way into the city, t was a fairly rough trip across the pond this time.
I passed the time watching 2 films and reading Sir Ranulf Fiennes Mad, Bad and Dangerous to know, a very interesting chapter just before i landed, its the bit where he has just suffered a massive heart attack which happens to around 100,000 people in Britain each year and he was on a plane and was defibilrated in time most die through one not being around, sounds very much like my fathers circumstances only he wasn't so lucky.
Anyway he had planned to do 7 marathons in 7 days on 7 continents and amazingy even though he had bypass surgery RF true to his word completed this amazing feat 4 months after his heart attack, this pretty much made my mind up i will run on sunday and i will finish the time is no longer important but completing the 3rd of these challenges at the end of the 99 days from hell certainly is.
Sent from my HTC
We have just arrived in New York and are now aboard the bus on our way into the city, t was a fairly rough trip across the pond this time.
I passed the time watching 2 films and reading Sir Ranulf Fiennes Mad, Bad and Dangerous to know, a very interesting chapter just before i landed, its the bit where he has just suffered a massive heart attack which happens to around 100,000 people in Britain each year and he was on a plane and was defibilrated in time most die through one not being around, sounds very much like my fathers circumstances only he wasn't so lucky.
Anyway he had planned to do 7 marathons in 7 days on 7 continents and amazingy even though he had bypass surgery RF true to his word completed this amazing feat 4 months after his heart attack, this pretty much made my mind up i will run on sunday and i will finish the time is no longer important but completing the 3rd of these challenges at the end of the 99 days from hell certainly is.
Sent from my HTC
Thursday 4 November 2010
Eve of Departure
Thursday 4th Novembe 2010
I have religiously followed the excercise regime given to me by the physio, and i can feel the difference in my hamstring however having spent 15 years playing football i am only to aware that i need at least another 3 weeks.
Tonight was decision time go out for a run and see how the leg holds up, the answer not the one i wanted each stride was painful like a knife being driven into the back of my leg every single time, i managed 2.5 miles before the pain became to much. I was also knackered can you really loose this much fitness in 5 days, or is it just the reality of the situation.
I walk back to the house and Rchel doesn't even have to ask she can see by the look on my face and the tears that i am trying to hide rolling down my cheek. In all this frustration Ethan just came over to me and gave me a big hug, no words just a hug it was perfect.
So have i packed yes, why when the reality is i stand no chance of finishing the marathon and if i do the time will be nothing to write home about and will be more than likely over the 5 hours allotted time. Well i can't explain i guess its me the way i am thats what got me to the top of Mont Blanc and i am praying its what will get me across the finish line, i have put in to much effort and made to many sacrifices to give up now.
Crazy yes stupid maybe but if i don't i will always wonder could i have.
Sent from my HTC
I have religiously followed the excercise regime given to me by the physio, and i can feel the difference in my hamstring however having spent 15 years playing football i am only to aware that i need at least another 3 weeks.
Tonight was decision time go out for a run and see how the leg holds up, the answer not the one i wanted each stride was painful like a knife being driven into the back of my leg every single time, i managed 2.5 miles before the pain became to much. I was also knackered can you really loose this much fitness in 5 days, or is it just the reality of the situation.
I walk back to the house and Rchel doesn't even have to ask she can see by the look on my face and the tears that i am trying to hide rolling down my cheek. In all this frustration Ethan just came over to me and gave me a big hug, no words just a hug it was perfect.
So have i packed yes, why when the reality is i stand no chance of finishing the marathon and if i do the time will be nothing to write home about and will be more than likely over the 5 hours allotted time. Well i can't explain i guess its me the way i am thats what got me to the top of Mont Blanc and i am praying its what will get me across the finish line, i have put in to much effort and made to many sacrifices to give up now.
Crazy yes stupid maybe but if i don't i will always wonder could i have.
Sent from my HTC
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Physiotherapy
Tuesday 2nd November 2010
Tonight was a crucial point for me, as i have just returned from the Physio and the news is indifferent really, the formal diagnosis is a grade 1 internal tear of the hamstring can it be fixed yes, can it be fixed in time for the marathon on sunday in all reality no, several weeks are needed.
However the physio and i agreed to remain positive and give it the best shot we had so after a fairly intense 45 minute session i have come home feeling positive. I have a series of excercises to do twice a day and then the real test comes on Thursday when i next attempt to run on it. The physio says if it breaks down then there is no chance of running the marathon, his concern is that this is my bodies way of saying its had enough, and fears that i could do more damage if i run through it.
In all honestly this has played havoc with my mental state of mind it was only a week ago Simon and i were joking about how would it feel if we picked up an injury that may force us out, well i know now and gutted is the answer not just for me but for everything my family has been through with me along this journey.
What is for certain is any ambition for a sub 4 hour time is gone as the advice from the physio is if i attempt to run the marathon run at a slower pace than planned as over stretching will certainly result in it breaking down to the point of not being able to finish the challenge.
I need alot of luck and positive thinking to make sure i get to the start line on Sunday otherwise it will personally for me be a very sad end to an overwhelming year of amazing achievments
Sent from my HTC
Tonight was a crucial point for me, as i have just returned from the Physio and the news is indifferent really, the formal diagnosis is a grade 1 internal tear of the hamstring can it be fixed yes, can it be fixed in time for the marathon on sunday in all reality no, several weeks are needed.
However the physio and i agreed to remain positive and give it the best shot we had so after a fairly intense 45 minute session i have come home feeling positive. I have a series of excercises to do twice a day and then the real test comes on Thursday when i next attempt to run on it. The physio says if it breaks down then there is no chance of running the marathon, his concern is that this is my bodies way of saying its had enough, and fears that i could do more damage if i run through it.
In all honestly this has played havoc with my mental state of mind it was only a week ago Simon and i were joking about how would it feel if we picked up an injury that may force us out, well i know now and gutted is the answer not just for me but for everything my family has been through with me along this journey.
What is for certain is any ambition for a sub 4 hour time is gone as the advice from the physio is if i attempt to run the marathon run at a slower pace than planned as over stretching will certainly result in it breaking down to the point of not being able to finish the challenge.
I need alot of luck and positive thinking to make sure i get to the start line on Sunday otherwise it will personally for me be a very sad end to an overwhelming year of amazing achievments
Sent from my HTC
Saturday 30 October 2010
Disaster
Saturday 30th October 2010
Less than 1 week to departure to New York, everyone has been wishing me well and asking if i am ready. My response has been consistant in that yes i am ready well as ready as you can be i have done all the training and am now winding down so as not to tire my legs out for the race, everything has really been routine.
When i say routine i mean knocking out 14 mile training runs has not really been a problem, so why disaster you ask, well i am currently lying on the sofa with an ice pack wrapped around my hamstring which decided to recoil like a colt 45, 3.5 miles into my 6 mile training run this afternoon.
Its strange i have been less worried about injury over the last week or so, my main concern has been not to catch the cold that is currently doing the rounds at work, my work colleagues have been dropping like flies, so in the interest of maintaining good health i have been dosing myself up with beechams which seems to have worked so far.
I am hoping this is a minor blip in the schedule, my last longish run is due tomorrow just 8 miles and i agreed to go out with my mate Pete which i was looking forward to as so far all of my training has been on my own, i am hoping the ice pack will do the trick.
I can honestly say that since returning from Africa i have never felt so tired and knackered my body has constantly ached, the actual training required to complete this marathon is so time consuming there is no time for anything else in your life at all, so in all honesty i am really looking forward to November 8th when its truly all over.
Well i say all over we have decided to defer the black tie dinner until June next year and that will form part of my charity golf day, so theoretically there is time to fit in 1 more mountain, Elbrus is looking favorite.
Will update on injury tomorrow.
Sent from my HTC
Less than 1 week to departure to New York, everyone has been wishing me well and asking if i am ready. My response has been consistant in that yes i am ready well as ready as you can be i have done all the training and am now winding down so as not to tire my legs out for the race, everything has really been routine.
When i say routine i mean knocking out 14 mile training runs has not really been a problem, so why disaster you ask, well i am currently lying on the sofa with an ice pack wrapped around my hamstring which decided to recoil like a colt 45, 3.5 miles into my 6 mile training run this afternoon.
Its strange i have been less worried about injury over the last week or so, my main concern has been not to catch the cold that is currently doing the rounds at work, my work colleagues have been dropping like flies, so in the interest of maintaining good health i have been dosing myself up with beechams which seems to have worked so far.
I am hoping this is a minor blip in the schedule, my last longish run is due tomorrow just 8 miles and i agreed to go out with my mate Pete which i was looking forward to as so far all of my training has been on my own, i am hoping the ice pack will do the trick.
I can honestly say that since returning from Africa i have never felt so tired and knackered my body has constantly ached, the actual training required to complete this marathon is so time consuming there is no time for anything else in your life at all, so in all honesty i am really looking forward to November 8th when its truly all over.
Well i say all over we have decided to defer the black tie dinner until June next year and that will form part of my charity golf day, so theoretically there is time to fit in 1 more mountain, Elbrus is looking favorite.
Will update on injury tomorrow.
Sent from my HTC
Wednesday 20 October 2010
3 weeks to New York
My life seems to have turned into the following type of ground hog day, wake up, work, train, shower, sleep, it's been this way since I arrived back from Africa and to be honest it's getting very tiring and I am wondering where my life has gone. There has been very little time for recreation or family activities and = to be honest I will be glad when its all over now.
Fundamentally I have been sticking to the training plan, which has meant roughly 40 miles per week for the last 3 weeks. Before I left for Dubai I managed my first 20 mile run, 2 weeks have past since then and on the last 2 Sundays I have managed to break 20 miles. Each time the pain is as great as the last. It doesn’t seem to get any easier other than the mental toughness as you are more prepared for the pain.
There has been one other problem, since the running machine had broken, I have had to do all my running on the road and this has led to a series of unwanted injuries. Firstly it was the shin splints, then a pulled hamstring, however these are nothing compared to the most recent problem, which I am actually struggling to diagnose accurately and it is a toss up between the following, Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, or Plantar Fasciitis, the latter being the most likely however the concern is that to cure the problem requires between 3 months and 1 year, which clearly I do not have! Basically I am suffering from a very sharp pain in the inner arch of my foot, which is exasperated when running. I was due to do 8 miles today following up from the 6 miles yesterday, but walking today has been a problem so I went out on the bike for an hour. However this didn’t do the foot any good either.
I have been off this week spending time with the kids and Rachel as she has been moaning that they don't see me and that she feels like a single parent and that is affecting the boys. The week so far has been fun and allowed a more relaxed approach as the training is not taking as much time out of the day. We managed to get to the driving range this morning for a couple of hours which was enjoyable and the boys loved it and want to go back again. We had to be back in the afternoon though as my new running board for the running machine was arriving. Surprisingly it arrived on time and a couple of hours drilling and sawing and I have the board in place, a bit of oil on the belt and we're away. I try the machine on a low pace for 3 minutes to work the oil through then disaster, the machine just cuts out! I have just spent £150 on a new board for the bloody motor to now blow up, typical.
So with 3 weeks to go I am seriously worried now about not being able to run until my foot gets better. With the difficult part done, the three 20 mile runs, achieved in 3 hours, 3 hours 10 and 3 hours 15, so quite respectable from the time perspective. I just do not want to loose my fitness now, this was really the last week for fairly high mileage training albeit my Sunday run is only scheduled for 14 miles, but as I say running a mile currently is impossible with the foot, I will see what it feels like with pain killers and anti inflammatory tablets.
Nothing ever seems to be simple or easy in this challenge.
We do however have one thing to look forward to, I have treated the family to a 7 night break to Lapland, so we will be spending Christmas Day in the far north of Finland. It seems I am attracted to the extreme cold, temperatures regularly drop to -35 degrees, however it’s a holiday of a lifetime and the family have put up with a lot this year. My Christmas Wish is to see the Northern Lights, the boys want to see the REAL Santa and Rachel wants to see the huskies!
David Todd
Chief Executive Officer
3tc Software Limited
Tel:- +44 (0)116 272 5276
Fax:- +44 (0)845 688 9951
e-mail :- david.todd@3tcsoftware.com
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Wednesday 6 October 2010
Marathon Update
Kilimanjaro seems such a long time ago now and with the marathon only a month away the memories are fading as my focus is purely on completing the last challenge.
I was interested to see how my body would react after getting back from Africa, so it was 2 days before i attempted my first run, well i guess it managed quite well as I comfortably covered 6 1/2 miles. This was a big confidence boost as after Mont Blanc I was worried my body would feel the same. Training continued to go well that week doing 2 seperate 5 mile runs, one at pace and one casual, although slightly hindered by the fact we were away in London for the weekend for Rachel's birthday. We took the kids to see the Lion King in the West End and I must admit I too thoroughly enjoyed it. I did take my running gear and forced myself out of bed early sunday morning and headed out through green park and hyde park, covered 10 miles and then went back to the hotel. No sooner had I jumped in the shower then the fire alarm went off. Rachel and the boys went down and I followed after showering and I was still no where near the last one out the building.
The following week the training continued to go well, although after the 10 mile in London, the back of my right knee had swollen up. Was not sure what that was until I was on the running machine and realised that my patella knee support that i wear was too tight, after removing it I have so far had no more problems with my knee and I covered 6 miles, 5 miles and 6 miles respectively, My long run for the week was scheduled for friday as I had to go to Dubai on business on saturday and I wasn't going to attempt to run in the heat.
So friday comes and I leave work on time for once. My plan is to do 18 miles, however, the weather is awful so this is a dilemma. There's no way in this wind and rain that I will do 18 miles so my only option is the treadmill. So MTV on and off we go. Things go well to start with and very quickly 2 hours have passed and i have covered 14 miles. Then the treadmill starts to make a funny noise and seems to be creating a trough in the middle of the running surface. At 15 miles I hear a loud crack and again the trough gets bigger. I decide to slow it down a little to see if that helps but no, I can now smell burning rubber! So at 17.5 miles I stop the treadmill, quickly change my top, put on the raincoat and my garmin and head off out. It seems to take ages for my watch to get a satellite signal and my legs are getting cold, finally off we go its probably only been 5 mins since i got off the treadmill but thats all it took to change my rhythm. I manage 3 miles and i am drenched but also elated as I have cracked 20 miles and felt great and the time was 3 hours dead. If the treadmill hadn't given out i think i could have pushed myself to complete 26miles. My fitness is there just need to balance the training.
I do think the treadill is really bust now, which will be a pain as its easy to jump on there and run than go out in the cold! I have decided that I am a fair weather runner!
So Dubai, god its hot and the humidty is unbearable at 85% on arrival. The hotel however as a good gym. The downside to this is that the treadmills are the ones with the built in fan, the little slot at the top of the display. They don't work that great in the UK and as I suspected they are terrible here. I don't think I ever sweated this much on my 20 mile run let alone the 4.5 miles I did on sunday evening. Monday I ran 7 and Tuesday another 4.5. As i'm travelling back on wednesday I can have 2 days off, run again on friday and then this Sunday the plan is to do 23 miles thats a round trip to the office!
Once again I'm at another airport waiting for a plane. Went to put my ipod on but for some reason nothing from it and yes it is charged I made sure last night.
Picture attached is the view from my room at sunset. Unfortunately it doesn't compare to the views experienced on Mont Blanc and Kilimanjaro. I find myself missing the mountains.
Sent from my HTC
Monday 20 September 2010
Breakfast in Amsterdam
Cheers everyone and thanks for all your support.
Sunday 19 September 2010
Treats
It was only after we pulled onto the main road, Russ realised one of the little blighters had knicked his sunglasses!
Tipping
One of the most annoying things on this trip has been the requirement to tip. I don't mind tipping if it is deserved and you show your appreciation of the service but here you tip for everything and I mean everything.
At the first hotel after you had ordered your drinks the waiter refused to leave the table until you tipped him and this was for every drink. The same was for food, even when they brought you the wrong order and it took over an hour they expected a tip.
But by far the worse is at the hotel we're in now. This place is set up as something fancy but really doesn't pull it off. There are more employees than guests. You are constantly surrounded by up to 3 people. If you even talk to them they expect a tip. Now I know and appreciate that they get basic minimum wage and it is basic, but quite frankly the behaviour over requiring a tip is merging on being quite threatening. If they don't feel that the tip given is enough the wait 'til you tip them more.
When we arrived yesterday evening our bags were carried to the room by a kind lady. We had been on a bus for 3 hours having trekked for 7 hours that day, so we were not in the best of moods and we just wanted a shower. When it was clear we had no change, she proceeded to close all the windows, turned the lights on, then re made the made beds, then did something in the garden, came back in did something in the bathroom, then started drawing the curtains, at this point I told her to stop. leave the curtains. I didn't want them drawn and that I was sorry I don't have any change until I had been to reception and at this she left. But it didn't end there Simon went to reception to get some change they said they hadn,t got any but out of nowhere appeared our chalet girl. 'I have. I have' she said, and proceeded to change Simon's 10 dollars all in exchange for a 1 dollar tip.
And again at lunch today, the waiter gave Simon the change however he had to wrestle it out of his hands. It is sad to see this desperate state of poverty and like I said I don't mind tipping as what is £1 to us is £100 to them but it begins to wear you down.
At the first hotel after you had ordered your drinks the waiter refused to leave the table until you tipped him and this was for every drink. The same was for food, even when they brought you the wrong order and it took over an hour they expected a tip.
But by far the worse is at the hotel we're in now. This place is set up as something fancy but really doesn't pull it off. There are more employees than guests. You are constantly surrounded by up to 3 people. If you even talk to them they expect a tip. Now I know and appreciate that they get basic minimum wage and it is basic, but quite frankly the behaviour over requiring a tip is merging on being quite threatening. If they don't feel that the tip given is enough the wait 'til you tip them more.
When we arrived yesterday evening our bags were carried to the room by a kind lady. We had been on a bus for 3 hours having trekked for 7 hours that day, so we were not in the best of moods and we just wanted a shower. When it was clear we had no change, she proceeded to close all the windows, turned the lights on, then re made the made beds, then did something in the garden, came back in did something in the bathroom, then started drawing the curtains, at this point I told her to stop. leave the curtains. I didn't want them drawn and that I was sorry I don't have any change until I had been to reception and at this she left. But it didn't end there Simon went to reception to get some change they said they hadn,t got any but out of nowhere appeared our chalet girl. 'I have. I have' she said, and proceeded to change Simon's 10 dollars all in exchange for a 1 dollar tip.
And again at lunch today, the waiter gave Simon the change however he had to wrestle it out of his hands. It is sad to see this desperate state of poverty and like I said I don't mind tipping as what is £1 to us is £100 to them but it begins to wear you down.
Bored
As you can most probably tell by the recent blogs we are REALLY bored now. We all want to get home. Some have already left. Stephan has just caught the bus to Nairobi 7 hours he must be mad, Ed, Karen and Anna are on a 1 day safari, Arrund and Carmen left after breakfast and we're just sitting in the garden with Toby and Johnny before they leave, most of us blogging for something to do and pass the time!
We have organised to go into Arusha to kill more time and find some souvenir's for the family as there was nothing at the Kilimanjaro national park shop , well not unless you wanted last years edition of the guinness book of records, which was the centre piece of the window display! Plus the hotel shop was not much better and I refuse to pay 20 dollars for two fridge magnets, especially when the wages of the poor people that made them was most probably about 50p!
This part of any type of trip I hate. You've done what you came to do and you just want to get home as fast as possible! Our flight is not until this evening so have quite a lot of time hanging around still! Wish the taxi would hurry up so we can have a look at some more tat!
We have organised to go into Arusha to kill more time and find some souvenir's for the family as there was nothing at the Kilimanjaro national park shop , well not unless you wanted last years edition of the guinness book of records, which was the centre piece of the window display! Plus the hotel shop was not much better and I refuse to pay 20 dollars for two fridge magnets, especially when the wages of the poor people that made them was most probably about 50p!
This part of any type of trip I hate. You've done what you came to do and you just want to get home as fast as possible! Our flight is not until this evening so have quite a lot of time hanging around still! Wish the taxi would hurry up so we can have a look at some more tat!
finally got some chips
We forever seem to be waiting, killing time doing nothing, so a cheeseburger from the bar was gratefully received and I think my chips finally arrived.
Accommodation
Mr Kilimanjaro himself
Saturday 18 September 2010
dessert?
Utter Disappointment to say the least!
Then dinner. Very limited menu choice of 3 so I choose the fish, but ask for chips as well as potatoes. The fish arrives, no chips. The fish is full of bones, in fact I calculate half my fish is not edible. Russ and Simon are rubbing in how nice their lamb and especially the chips are and I cannot repeat my few choice words said in response! Oh and to make matters worse the vegetables are raw. Oh to be home for a decent meal!
The Morning After
Yesterday was made up of two achievements, firstly Simon and my summit attempt which took 6 hours 36 minutes. Our guides told us later that they had slowed us down as we were on track to reach the summit in the dark. The second is the impressive achievement of Russ to reach Gilmans point. Those of you that have either climbed or attempted to climb Kilimanjaro will know how tough that is and those of you that know Russ will know that walking up very steep mountains is not what he's built to do, but he did it and it was a monumental achievement. The only thing I beat myself up over is that as I met Russ on my way down I should have put my foot down with the porter and turned round and gone back with him. It may have avoided Russ's complete physical exhaustion and AMS that he suffered, as throughout the whole trek I have been reminding him when to snack when to hydrate, when to take gel packs etc, still whats done is done and Russ is down safely. Mate I am immensely proud of your achievement.
To our amazement this morning having been stretchered the 9km from Kibo to the last camp, Russ is looking amazingly well much to our relief. The big concern is the final part of our trek to the Marangu Gate, its about 20k there is no way he will make that. Charles the guide has organised for the park rangers to collect him at around 15k, but still is 8 hours walking for him.
Once again a beautiful sunrise greets us, the camp is busy, as its the last day. There is a traditional tipping ceremony after breakfast. We are sang to, then the items that we have donated are handed out to the deserving porters, I left the KIM pillow, and then all 39 of the crew receive their tips. I had been nominated by everyone to make a speech and hand out the tips, interestingly when the crew knew I was the accountant as they call it, they became extra nice to me! It was great to be able to thank them for all their hard work as none of us would have been there without the Porters. They are an amazing bunch of men!
Out of our party of 11, 9 made the summit, 1 to Gilmans and 1 to 5,150m, so all in all not bad. Everyone had their own reasons for being there and their own demons to fight against on Summit day. Mine was altitude sickness as after Mont Blanc I was really worried. However thankfully I only suffered from a mild headache, which I know was sinusitus not AMS. Our summit day lasted only 8.5 hours, a breeze compared with the 18.5 on Mont Blanc.
We all left camp at the same time, but very quickly got separated. Simon and I stayed with Russ for the first hour, then we were told we had to leave him, to ensure we arrived at the gate at the same time. We were not happy about this, but our protests were turned down flat. I asked Russ if he was ok with it, and as usual he was, we just agreed whoever got down first got the beers in.
As has every morning been it was hot again, still different scenery to admire and general good company to pass the time with. Simon has again hurt his knee, but has developed a wonderful knack of using his walking pole as a cross between a splint and a walking stick. Put it this way he's going to be fine when he's 70 and needs a stick.
It takes us about 5 hours to cover the 20k's descending through the rainforest, we saw another Colobus Monkey on the way and many streams and the odd waterfall. We all then had to sign out of the park. However Russ wasn't back, so this gave us time to have a beer etc and look in the shop. Kilimanjaro national park really needs to get smarter commercially as there is nothing to buy as presents for kids and loved ones, not even a fridge magnet.
Russ arrives about an hour later. We are all very pleased to see him. He is back to his old self again and his wit has fully returned today. After a cold beer the one liners are pouring out of him.
We're back in the bus on the way to our hotel in Arusha. Russ is desperate to charge his iphone, hence he hasn't blogged for a while!
Back home on Monday a few days rest then training continues for the New York Marathon. 2 challenges completed 1 to go. I think Simon will rest for a week, but then get back into training. We both feel now that our goal is in sight as the first 2 challenges had lots of variables out of our control, like the weather, mountain sickness etc. Whereas the marathon is about staying fit and having the right mental strength. I think Simon and I have both proved we have the mental strength, we just need to stay fit!
Finally, it is so good to be able to say I've climbed Kili!
To our amazement this morning having been stretchered the 9km from Kibo to the last camp, Russ is looking amazingly well much to our relief. The big concern is the final part of our trek to the Marangu Gate, its about 20k there is no way he will make that. Charles the guide has organised for the park rangers to collect him at around 15k, but still is 8 hours walking for him.
Once again a beautiful sunrise greets us, the camp is busy, as its the last day. There is a traditional tipping ceremony after breakfast. We are sang to, then the items that we have donated are handed out to the deserving porters, I left the KIM pillow, and then all 39 of the crew receive their tips. I had been nominated by everyone to make a speech and hand out the tips, interestingly when the crew knew I was the accountant as they call it, they became extra nice to me! It was great to be able to thank them for all their hard work as none of us would have been there without the Porters. They are an amazing bunch of men!
Out of our party of 11, 9 made the summit, 1 to Gilmans and 1 to 5,150m, so all in all not bad. Everyone had their own reasons for being there and their own demons to fight against on Summit day. Mine was altitude sickness as after Mont Blanc I was really worried. However thankfully I only suffered from a mild headache, which I know was sinusitus not AMS. Our summit day lasted only 8.5 hours, a breeze compared with the 18.5 on Mont Blanc.
We all left camp at the same time, but very quickly got separated. Simon and I stayed with Russ for the first hour, then we were told we had to leave him, to ensure we arrived at the gate at the same time. We were not happy about this, but our protests were turned down flat. I asked Russ if he was ok with it, and as usual he was, we just agreed whoever got down first got the beers in.
As has every morning been it was hot again, still different scenery to admire and general good company to pass the time with. Simon has again hurt his knee, but has developed a wonderful knack of using his walking pole as a cross between a splint and a walking stick. Put it this way he's going to be fine when he's 70 and needs a stick.
It takes us about 5 hours to cover the 20k's descending through the rainforest, we saw another Colobus Monkey on the way and many streams and the odd waterfall. We all then had to sign out of the park. However Russ wasn't back, so this gave us time to have a beer etc and look in the shop. Kilimanjaro national park really needs to get smarter commercially as there is nothing to buy as presents for kids and loved ones, not even a fridge magnet.
Russ arrives about an hour later. We are all very pleased to see him. He is back to his old self again and his wit has fully returned today. After a cold beer the one liners are pouring out of him.
We're back in the bus on the way to our hotel in Arusha. Russ is desperate to charge his iphone, hence he hasn't blogged for a while!
Back home on Monday a few days rest then training continues for the New York Marathon. 2 challenges completed 1 to go. I think Simon will rest for a week, but then get back into training. We both feel now that our goal is in sight as the first 2 challenges had lots of variables out of our control, like the weather, mountain sickness etc. Whereas the marathon is about staying fit and having the right mental strength. I think Simon and I have both proved we have the mental strength, we just need to stay fit!
Finally, it is so good to be able to say I've climbed Kili!
Friday 17 September 2010
King Julian
Well as luck would have it on summit day of all days there causing mischief in the crater was King Julian, he apparently was visiting from Madagascar, and somehow he knew I had a message from Kian, and this is what he said.
Kian you should be good for your mum and dad most of the time, but in answer to your question yes you can come to Africa, however if you want to climb Kilimanjaro then you have to be 10 years old. Got to go now Kian I've heard the penguins are causing trouble again, King Julian over and out.
Last Camp
My trusty boots what a state!
Foot Damage
Considering the battering they have taken over the last few days, very little damage indeed, just the big toe on my left foot which is bruised and has fluid under it, very painful to the touch and 1 more day of walking, oh well its not like I'd be doing any dancing.
Kili summited!
We left for the summit at 12 midnight, the plan was to get to Gilmans Point by sunrise at 6am. The climb is in two sections, the first is to reach Gilmans point (5,681m) and this is the longest part and should take around 5-6 hours. Then if you are fit enough it is another hour or so to the true summit, Uhuru at 5,895m.
The going was easy to start with and was not particulary steep, but as the mountain got busier it was hard to keep a rhythm going, after a couple of hours our group had separated into two, stronger ones at the front weaker at the back. It was at this point that I did not realise was this is where we had lost Russ. Simon, Ed and myself were allowed to push on. we made surprisingly short work of the swithbacks on loose scree (imagine zig-zagging up sand dunes) and we arrived at Gilmans Point at 5am, an hour ahead of schedule, a few photos a hot cup of tea and off to the summit. At this point Ed and I are suffering with bad headaches, and then Ed throws up, which seems to cure him, no such luck for me, the additional 200m to the summit are going to hurt.
What I was not expecting when standing on the crater rim was the shear beauty of this mountain and its surrounding glaciers.
At 6.36am, the three of us and our guides stepped foot on the summit of mount Kilimanjaro some 5895m above sea level. Words cannot describe how I feel. I think of my family back home and my dad. I honestly didn't question once if I wouldn't make it, I was very determined this time. I believe I have probably pushed my body to the limits though of high altitude climbing this time, and maybe this is enough.
We passed Russ on the way down at 5500m. He had set himself a target of Gilmans point at 5681m, however if I know Russ I cannot see him stopping there. I reloaded him with gel packs and we gave him words of encouragment and wished him luck. As always he'd informed us he'd still had time to blog inbetween bouts of throwing up! Simon, Ed and I have our fingers crossed as he deserves to make it, he has worked so hard this week and gone along an emotional rollercoaster. Come on Russ.
We carried on down and when we got onto the scree, we 'scree-ran'down and once we got the hang of it it was quite easy and a lot quicker than walking down!
The rest of the guys will be late back and Russ later, what they don't know is that they face a 9km walk to our camp for the evening.
I suppose I had better sort the tent out and try and get rid of some of the dust, i cannot describe how dirty everything is, I have never been this dirty and it just doesn't come off, I am then going to assess the damage to my feet, as coming down only took 2 hours, most of it skiing down the screen slopes I can feel my 2 big toes bleeding now.
Simon has done his knee in again so that will be painfully for the next few days.
As much as we are proud of what we achieved today, my hat goes of to the man we passed just coming off the summit, he was on crutches due to only having one leg!
I'm sure there is more I have forgotten, but I will fill in the gaps over the next few days, cannot wait to get back to the hotel tomorrow to get properly clean and am now desperate to see the boys and especially Rachel. I managed to phone her twice, once on our way to Gilmans Point then again after we had summitted! And yes Rachel both Simon and myself can NOW call it Kili!
Am I glad that I did it? Without question Absolutely! Would I attempt it again? At this moment in time No. I've been higher than I have ever been before and possible ever will be under my own steam. It has been quite an experience and one that I will never forget. A lot of sole searching has been carried out on this trip and hopefully I will return home with a new and rejuvinated perspective on life and appreciate more those close to me......
Thursday 16 September 2010
Day 4 - 5 Hours to departure
I'm as ready as I am ever going to be, am coping well with the altitude have kept my appetite, which has surprised me. Just breakfast at 11.30pm and then off we go.
I am hoping we get a signal on the way up as have missed talking to Rachel and the boys.
Right sock issues now to resolve!
Day 3 Mawenzi Camp 4,330m
Breakfast is the same and the porridge is still awful but I smother it with jam and lots of sugar to mask the taste and eat it as fast as I can!
Today was tough mainly due to the heat, it was extremely hot and just zaps all of your energy. I think I was still suffering from heat stroke from yesterday so today I am completely covered, but still have my headache,was hoping it would have gone. Told the head guide Charles and he told me to take diamox which I did.
I can see Russ is struggling big time today so Simon and I give him as much moral support as we can, he has done brilliant so far and we will encourage him all the way to the top.
We're actually walking away from the mountain towards Mawenzi a beautiful jagged peak. Mawenzi is one of the three peaks on kilimanjaro. Mount Kilimanjaro is on our right bathed in sunshine, it actually looks like a bloody big ant hill, good job its not as the ants would be huge and the Anteater would be the size of a dinosaur! The vegetation is also really starting to thin out now. Although its been tough to this point the way to the top looks very steep. If we get that far it will be a long 12 hours to get to the top, I pray to stay healthy.
I spoke with Rachel early this morning as was not certain we would get a signal, even managed to get to talk with Ethan and Kian for a few minutes later on, then lost service for the rest of the day, but it was great to hear their voices, I read the photo book they gave me every night and it brings a smile to my face. I can't express how much I am missing them all and long to give them all a hug.
We eventually arrive at camp at around 1pm, after leaving at 8.30am this morning everything is set up as usual by the brilliant porters. We get a hot lunch consisting of soup, potatoes and salad, and plenty of hot tea. There was fruit for dessert, water melon today, pineapple yesterday, not bad considering we are at 4330m. We then get a welcome rest before we leave on the acclimatisation walk to 4550M, my head still hurts, I have taken everything there is yet nothing will shift it. I collapse in the tent for a well earned rest to try and shift it.
The rest was quick lived though and off we plodded, and I mean plodded, off on our acclimtisation walk. You are supposed to climb high and sleep low to help your bodies get used to the altitude. Not something that you want to do as you are so bloody knackered but you know you have to give you the chance of reaching the summit. It was very very steep, but we all made it and headed back down for 'wash wash' as they call it.
I'm not feeling particularly great so go for another lie down, that lasted 10mins before the first bout of diarrhoea which was quickly followed 30 mins later by another bout. This really is not pleasant at this altitude and I won't go into detail! Stephan gives me some tablets to take that should kill the bug. I was the butt of all jokes (no pun intended!) over the pasta dinner! It would seem that the side effect of diamox for me is to wee constantly, 15 times today so far and diarrhoea, so basically no more diamox for me.
Its now 8pm everyone is in their tents trying to sleep. Its cold tonight, bloody cold.
Day 4 - Kibo Hut 4,700m
My stomach feels better and I have drunk my 3 litre quota of water today although I keep peeing, but its clear so thats a good sign and shows that my body is accilmatising.
It feels weird camping at 100m below the summit of mont blanc. Have started to develop a headache as its so hot. We have 3 hours rest before dinner at 5.30. And then breakfast at 11.30pm.
After lunch Charles outlined the route and expectations. It's going to be bloody hard that's for sure.
Apparently their is a phone signal 50mins higher than camp, however, Charles recommends rest so as not to jeopardize the summit attempt, I hope rachel and the kids understand. I know Rachel worries if I have no contact.
The plan is to leave at midnight to give us a chance of reaching Gilmans point by 6am to see the sun rise over the crater rim, and then hopefully if we feel fit enough onto the summit by 8ish.
I am now in the tent. We have packed everything for the summit bid so hopefully no faffing around when we get up in a few hours and are wearing our clothes to sleep in! It is extremely cold again tonight and ice has already formed on our tent. It is going to be below zero when we leave tonight.
Time to try to sleep I am very nervous, this is it what we have come for and it is just in our reach. Within half hour I will be higher than I have ever been before.
Not sure whether will get much sleep and my fingers are crossed that I can speak to Rachel for that last bit of encouragement.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
Day 2 - Kikelewa Caves 3600m
At around 6.30 we were awaken by porters, who had a bowl of water for us. Managed to get about 7 hours sleep last night which was good. At breakfast we had our first taste of kilimanjaro porridge. Porridge is one thing that I do not have at home and I am not sure what it is supposed to taste like but it was revolting! But you eat it as you know you have to keep eating and drinking whilst you are trekking, so I forced it down! YUK!
It is was quite steep this morning, not really hard compared to Mont Blanc, so Me and Si seemed ok with this. The landscape is also getting drier and the red dust is changing to grey/black volcanic dust which is most probably not doing our lungs any good. We stop to take regular breaks of snacks and water. We arrive at Second Cave for lunch and have quite an appetite. The terrain this afternoon is more rocky as we amble slowly on the path through moving around the rocks and boulders. This is our first taste of what lies ahead. THe guides also tell the group that we might start feeling the effects of altitude sickness as we go abovfe 3,000m for the first time. As we know from Mont Blanc he is right, what looks like a small hill becomes more difficult to climb up as you try and catch your breath. Russ and Karen particularly found today tough going, Russ had a second wind after the gel pack, and his SPO2 stats were not to low at 79. I think he needs to try and eat more which is hard at altitude but will get harder. Karen really suffered and her stats were very low we are going to giver her some dex tomorrow to see if things improve.
I am conscious that tomorrow is just going to get harder and harder, so while I still feel good I will eat and drink as much as I can. Managed to consume 4 litres of water today, and despite that still have a raging headache, so far Ibuprofen and paracetamol have not worked I am hoping to sleep it off tonight, again I am not to concerned as my stats have an SPO2 of 95, I think its just sunstroke a bit although did have buff and cap on all day.
Managed to speak to Rachel and the boys today which is always a boost, the phone signals are very few and far between, and I don't know how long this will last. Fingers crossed.
Spent alot of today thinking about dad too. I think this was because I had decided to attempt this mountain following his death, which to me still seems like yesterday. I think getting our first glimpse of this beautiful mountain this morning brought all the reasons to the forefront of my head. I am hoping that I can try and come to terms with his sudden death and am partly doing it for dad. You also need to take your mind away from the trek, as the terrain and view is constant, i,m sure it gets better higher up.
Apart from the headache and the heat, the dust has been unbearable it gets everywhere, and you cannot get it off, I have never wanted a warm bath more than I do now.
The one thing that is always a sight of ore is the porters carrying the equipment on their heads to the next camp, its an incredible sight and they do it at 4 times the pace you can walk at!
I think I have been nominated as the accountant for the trip which means at the end of the trip I have to collect in all the tips and distribute to all the helpers, all 28 of them, with a little speech, Pete where are you when we need you!
So tomorrow we head to the foot of mawenzi peak, this takes us to 4330m. Its short but a steep hard climb apparently and then we will do acclimatisation climb of a few hundred metres before returning to camp for a well earned rest! This I know won't be pleasant above 4000m, two camps at this altitude its going to be tough and we should have a good idea who is and isn't going to make it.
Tuesday 14 September 2010
Max Height Today
Is this king Julian's lair?
hello boys
Knackered
Great to get the messages from home of support
Day 1 Evening Dinner
Memory is going not sure whether I have already said about dinner? -
Tonights meal was pretty impressive considering where we are.
menu
Soup of some sort but very nice.
Fried fish, roast potatoes, vegetable stew and spinach.
Papia - god that stinks.
Finished off back at the tent with a chocolate Hobart nob!
Briefing
Charles our lead guide briefed the group on tomorrow's trek and then checked to see if all ok. Only Karen, Ed's mum was suffering from headache. Both Anna and Stephan have already started taking the diamox.
Simon and I are going to wait and see how tomorrow goes, max height tomorrow is 3750m camping back at 3400m we have both been higher so feel confident we should be ok, we just need to ensure we maintain our appetite and drink plenty of fluids.
Right time for bed, apparently we get a cup of tea in bed tomorrow (I don't even get that from Rachel!)
Tonights meal was pretty impressive considering where we are.
menu
Soup of some sort but very nice.
Fried fish, roast potatoes, vegetable stew and spinach.
Papia - god that stinks.
Finished off back at the tent with a chocolate Hobart nob!
Briefing
Charles our lead guide briefed the group on tomorrow's trek and then checked to see if all ok. Only Karen, Ed's mum was suffering from headache. Both Anna and Stephan have already started taking the diamox.
Simon and I are going to wait and see how tomorrow goes, max height tomorrow is 3750m camping back at 3400m we have both been higher so feel confident we should be ok, we just need to ensure we maintain our appetite and drink plenty of fluids.
Right time for bed, apparently we get a cup of tea in bed tomorrow (I don't even get that from Rachel!)
Day 1 Commence climb to Simba Camp (2600m)
The first half hour was full of innuendo's and laughter however that soon petered out to a strange kind of silence as we walked through a pine plantation. I guess this is part of the group bonding and getting to know each other.
What we weren't expecting was the dust clouds that were being kicked up, I'm glad I bought the buff, and yes Simon, Russ I'm sorry I Didn,t get you one. We soon began to look like the locals covered in red sand.
Surprisingly we ran into the colobus monkey quite early on, about an hour in.
After an hour or so the pine plantation gave way to rainforest and then just before lunch we came across some local kids. Russ gave away his jelly babies much to their delight. The condition of these children is quite heartbreaking and it makes you realise how lucky you are.
We set off way before the porters, however it wasn't long before they passed us going up the mountain and coming back down to get some more supplies and bags! They really are quite incredible.
We stop to eat our pre-packed lunch at a picnic table (we could have been at Coombe Park!) which consisted of a buttered cob, carrots, soft ready salted crisps, 4 biscuits and a bar of dairy milk.
The afternoon walk was not hard and was fairly easty but with the heat and dust it wasn't pleasant. A few steep rocky stretches then we arrive at Simba camp and what a site, tents pitched, choose your own, mess tent up, cook tent up, a whole hive of activity. Simon informs me that these are better tents than what he was expecting and is pleased. We choose a tent and then get our bags and are introduced to our personal porters, Simon's and mine are brothers.
We set off again on a small acclimatisation walk, walk high, sleep low, I was surprised we only went 100 m higher and then back to camp.
The porters greet us with a bowl of boiling hot water to wash in, it was heaven particularly bathing the feet after. This will be close to a shower as we are going to get on this trip!
Its then time for tea and popcorn in the mess tent (folding camp chairs and tables), its all a bit strange but very much appreciated!
We are to go back to the mess tent at 6'30pm for dinner. Our gourmet dinner consisted of a tasty soup, again with bread and butter, some kind of fish in batter, roast spuds, spinach and a veg stew. Followed by fruit and washed down with lots of tea! and after dinner we are briefed on tomorrow's day, we rise at 6.30, then breakfast at 7 and we leave by 7.30 sharp. Apparently it will be harder, 6 to 7 hours walking, going up to 3700m and will be steeper in the morning section and then back down to sleep at 3400m
Currently feel ok, my back hurts a little and my knee is hurting will probably go for the full knee support tomorrow. The camp is now in silence with people either sleeping, reading or listening to their ipods!
Day 2 Breathtaking
Monday 13 September 2010
Day 1 - base camp
Frustrating that we have been here 3 days now and still haven't seen the summit as thick cloud hides her from our sight. But perhaps it is a good thing that we can't see what monumental task lies ahead and we can avoid the mind games that she will throw at us once we see her in her entirety. At the moment we are full of enthusiasm but most of all optimism!
Day 1 - Porters
Day 1 - Rongai gate
We're just filling out some more forms then the trek will begin. We say goodbye to toilets with seats, beds with mattresses, cool iced beers, showers and we say goodbye to all the things that make us soft and pliable! (god that makes me sound like a toilet roll!)
Day 1 - I'm being blogged
I imagine by now Russ and Simon will have updated their blog on my toilet break, but hey when ypuv'e got to go you'e got to go. What goes around comes around Mr Kew!
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