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Gobi March Blogs 2011
10
PostsGobi March (2011) blog posts from Alistair Cavill
04 July 2011 10:53 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
On my way home now after the race. I'm really looking forward to getting home to the family. I ran well on the last day and made one last move up the ladder to end 37th after 44 hours and 31 minutes on the course. I am elated at the time and position and very happy to have finished at all.
As this will be the last blog it's probably a good time to reflect on the race and what I will take away from it. As far as the race itself goes, it was without question very difficult. Heat, hydration, and blisters were the key components of the race. Those that managed these well, did well. Those that didn't either struggled through or retired from the race. Continuous attention to staying hydrated and avoiding over-exertion was essential in a race which will be remembered for it's temperatures as much as for it's terrain. In the end, doing well meant being consistent and avoiding any of the mistakes that could take you out of the race. It was heartbreaking to see so many people have to retire after so much work but I guess that is the sport of endurance running. One thing I can say is everyone who attempted the race, whether they finished or not, will go away a far richer person for the experience.
During an event like this some people report life changing experiences and come out the other end markedly changed people. Without question there are many highs and lows experienced when pushing your body to exhaustion over many days. Were they life changing? I would prefer to say that life from now on will be far sweeter and have more flavour than it did before. One thing an experience such as this does to you is force you to concentrate a few very simple things to survive. Water, Food, Feet and Sleep. Nothing else matters until the end. I have found this experience refreshing and invigorating. It has given me cause to contemplate how complicated and "noisy" our lives can become and that occasionally going back to basics can remind us of the important things in life - family, health, humility and friendship. In many respects, when all is done, these are the things that will allow one to move on from this world happy and content. (Not that I'm planning on going anywhere just yet!).
During this race I have seen ordinary people doing extraordinary things and am reminded that adversity, in it's many forms, is character building. The enduring qualities of tenacity, endurance, courage, humility, and comradeship were on display in spades over the last week and it was inspiring to see. With extreme adversity the true characters of people shine through and I am sure that these qualities lie within most people but perhaps they don't know it. To see these qualities in others first hand and to know that you have them within yourself is gratifying in an indescribable way. During the race I got an email from my Dad with a few latin words which to me sums up this sentiment perfectly - "per ardua ad astra"- through adversity to the stars.
One a separate note, I do want to thank everyone who has supported me before and during the race either with words of encouragement, donations to the Jodi Lee Foundation, or just a good kick in the guts when I needed it! The emails and blog comments were very motivating and I was very touched by the show of support from such a large number of people. I have not been able to see all the donations coming in while I have been away but I do know that we have raised well over $40,000 so far. I am gobsmacked by the generosity of all those who have donated and will try to thank everyone individually when I get home. The Foundation is doing great work to raise the profile of Bowel Cancer in the community and encourage early detection and screening for the disease. 90% of Bowel Cancer cases are curable if detected early.
Well, for me it's a bit of rest after a tough week and some time with my beautiful family who have put up with so much while I have been training for the race. It's too early to say what's next but it's pretty safe to say...stay tuned! Alistair.
01 July 2011 03:47 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
People are capable of unbeleivable things when faced with adversity. That is something I have learned in spades over the last 2 days. I am not sure where to start - stage 4 and the long stage 5 have been hell. Temperatures on both days have topped over 50 degrees and a very large number of people have been forced to pull out. Those reamining are exhausted beyond description and glad not to have gotten into more trouble. Absolute carnage is what I would describe the last 2 days.
Stage 4 was brutal. 20km of sand dunes, 20km of salt flats. Unfortunately we were woken at 3 am for a 3 hour bus ride to the start so none of us were able to get the food or sleep we wanted or needed for this stage. The first sand hill was at the start and so it went for well over 4 hours. Then the salt flats which in 45 - 50 degrees heat up like a barbeque grill. A number of thermotres on the course clocked 57 degrees! I cant describe the heat other than to say its not very pleasant. Most stages on a day are about 10km and by checkpoint 3 on day 4 people were in trouble with heat exhaustion and dehydration. I completed the stage with a fellow Australian, Mark Calvert and Californian Mellisa Racoulait. Our strategy that day was to get out in the front group early while the temperature was lower, stay hydrated, take plenty of salt tablets, dont push too hard and just survive the day. As it happens, it was a good strategy and one we used on stage 5. I spent a couple of hours in the medical tent after stage 4 battling nausea from the electrolytes which dont seem to agree with me in the heat. I spent the last 3 hours of the day trying to hold off vomitting which made getting water down very difficult. A can of pepsi and some anti nausea medication and all was good. Not sure of the exact numbers as we dont get much info on race progress out here, but I believe over 20 people retired hurt on stage 4.
Day 5 - The long Day. Insufficiently recovered from stage 4 and with not much sleep (Camel spiders, scorpions and 30 degrees at night means a really bad sleep!) The long day got underway in slightly cooler conditions. Mark, Melissa and I stuck together from the start and got off at a good pace to try and get milage under our belts before the heat set in.The temperatures again were around 50 degress and with 80km to do set the scene for a day I wish never to repeat. In this environment, one slip in hydration discipline, fueling or electrolyte intake and your race is over. Likewise, race leaders and until now healthy people were dropping like flies. Not sure of the chop rate yestreday, but it will have been many. The three of us made it to checkpoint 5 in one peice (just) and Mark and I stopped for something to eat (amongst 2000 year old ruins) while Melissa decided to keep going. The next 3 stages of 22km are not easily described. I had developed 4 blisters on my right heal which made life a bit uncomfortable for the first stage and downright excruciating for the last 15km. 16 hours on the course was taking its toll and all I could do in the end was put one leg in front of the other, forget about my time and just get home. At about 2 am I crossed the line feeling pretty shattered but at least in one peice.
The mood around camp today is something akin to an army after a hard battle. It is 50 degrees again and we are all in our tents nursing our wounds and contemplating the day past and the last day tomorrow. While only 13 km to the finish, in the condition we are all in today it is likely to be a tough run but the end of an exceptional journey. We are all looking forward to some real food and a cold drink. A shower will be welcome too.
Thankyou all for your unbelievable support and encouragement over the last week. One final blog to come soon with perhaps a better summary of the last week than I am able to give in the condition I am in now. Until then, another freeze dried meal and a hot nights sleep before the final push.
A.
Stage 4 was brutal. 20km of sand dunes, 20km of salt flats. Unfortunately we were woken at 3 am for a 3 hour bus ride to the start so none of us were able to get the food or sleep we wanted or needed for this stage. The first sand hill was at the start and so it went for well over 4 hours. Then the salt flats which in 45 - 50 degrees heat up like a barbeque grill. A number of thermotres on the course clocked 57 degrees! I cant describe the heat other than to say its not very pleasant. Most stages on a day are about 10km and by checkpoint 3 on day 4 people were in trouble with heat exhaustion and dehydration. I completed the stage with a fellow Australian, Mark Calvert and Californian Mellisa Racoulait. Our strategy that day was to get out in the front group early while the temperature was lower, stay hydrated, take plenty of salt tablets, dont push too hard and just survive the day. As it happens, it was a good strategy and one we used on stage 5. I spent a couple of hours in the medical tent after stage 4 battling nausea from the electrolytes which dont seem to agree with me in the heat. I spent the last 3 hours of the day trying to hold off vomitting which made getting water down very difficult. A can of pepsi and some anti nausea medication and all was good. Not sure of the exact numbers as we dont get much info on race progress out here, but I believe over 20 people retired hurt on stage 4.
Day 5 - The long Day. Insufficiently recovered from stage 4 and with not much sleep (Camel spiders, scorpions and 30 degrees at night means a really bad sleep!) The long day got underway in slightly cooler conditions. Mark, Melissa and I stuck together from the start and got off at a good pace to try and get milage under our belts before the heat set in.The temperatures again were around 50 degress and with 80km to do set the scene for a day I wish never to repeat. In this environment, one slip in hydration discipline, fueling or electrolyte intake and your race is over. Likewise, race leaders and until now healthy people were dropping like flies. Not sure of the chop rate yestreday, but it will have been many. The three of us made it to checkpoint 5 in one peice (just) and Mark and I stopped for something to eat (amongst 2000 year old ruins) while Melissa decided to keep going. The next 3 stages of 22km are not easily described. I had developed 4 blisters on my right heal which made life a bit uncomfortable for the first stage and downright excruciating for the last 15km. 16 hours on the course was taking its toll and all I could do in the end was put one leg in front of the other, forget about my time and just get home. At about 2 am I crossed the line feeling pretty shattered but at least in one peice.
The mood around camp today is something akin to an army after a hard battle. It is 50 degrees again and we are all in our tents nursing our wounds and contemplating the day past and the last day tomorrow. While only 13 km to the finish, in the condition we are all in today it is likely to be a tough run but the end of an exceptional journey. We are all looking forward to some real food and a cold drink. A shower will be welcome too.
Thankyou all for your unbelievable support and encouragement over the last week. One final blog to come soon with perhaps a better summary of the last week than I am able to give in the condition I am in now. Until then, another freeze dried meal and a hot nights sleep before the final push.
A.
Comments: Total (35) comments
Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 09:39 am
Al AMAZING!!! The conditions and elements sound terrible and certainly not inviting. It sounds like you have some great friends and you are all looking out for each other. Enjoy all the celebrations. See you home soon xxx
Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 07:01 am
Great job mate. Cograts from all here at the shed. Look forward to seeing you back home...
Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 04:30 am
Hey Al, How are those legs now? Hopefully your high spirits will carry you home pain free if not you can always get wheelchair assistance at the airport and I know Sim will take special care of you when you get home. Hope the celebrations were fitting. Seems like tent Australia was the way to go. Well done to you
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 01:41 pm
Such an incredible, amazing, inspirational effort and achievement. Congratulations and well done Alistair!! :)
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 06:36 am
Very well done mate. Good on you!
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 05:11 am
So proud and so happy for you al
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 01:11 am
Congratulations on a fantatic effort on conquering one of the hardest events in the world. Great effort Al.
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 12:57 am
Mate, mate, maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate, YOU HAVE DONE IT, AWESOME, AMAZING, well done mate, so happy for you, just seen your photo at the the finish, you da' man!!! Enjoy the celebrations and the recovery, all the best, cheers...
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 11:56 pm
Al- Not enough adjectives to describe your effort! Well done and enjoy the celebrations when it's all over. Wow!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 10:18 pm
Cavpower- huge effort and increased respect for battling on in what sounds like extremely tough conditions. Well done mate! Cabs
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 01:06 pm
OMG! Truly an inspiration... Well done Alistair!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 12:54 pm
INCREDIBLE! What an effort. Enjoy your hard earned meal tonight. So pleased you made it in one piece (more or less!) Can't wait to hear all xx
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 10:59 am
Wow Al is all we can say - you are doing such an amazing job... Your blogs are great and describe how hard it must be for all of you out there. Nothing could ever prepare you for this. But just think in 13km you can say you did it and you did it for a wonderful lady and a great mate. You should be very very proud of yourself for what you have accomplished. Keep it up and can't wait to hear the about the war wounds! Dons & Dooles xxxx
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 10:28 am
Al - mate, what a fantastic effort! Well done, you have thrown off the soft tag and graduated to being the hardest of the hard units! Difficult to imagine what you have experienced, but looking forward to hearing all about it. Enjoy the celebration and safe travels. Cheers, AJ
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 06:08 am
Al. I know I gave you a hard time about your decision to do this race. I just thought the task was too big, too much and frankly a little crazy. Boy, did I underestimate you. It will NEVER happen again! I did know you were determined and very fit but this is something else. A feat beyond equal. Well done and please stay healthy and strong on the last leg. Almost there!! Can't wait to see you and the family when we get home from holidays. Enjoy the celebrations and take care. Kendall, AJ, Ella, Will & Harry
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 05:58 am
Incredible Al ... you have shown us that ANYTHING is possible .... subsequently I now have hope that Port will win a game this year :) safe travels home, Nini x
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 05:24 am
Good luck on the last stage Alistair. Unbeleivable stories to give when you get back i'm sure. Look forward to your final blog.
Well done and see you soon.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 05:12 am
Well done Alistair
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 05:04 am
Well done darling...you must be absolutely shattered physically and emotionally...make sure you enjoy the celebrations!
You have been soooo inspiring that I think I might have to come run with you next year....husband and wife team...what do you think?!!! xx
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 04:32 am
Amazing effort and commitment. Keep up your spirits and all the best for the final stage.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 03:26 am
We are seriously lost for words - All morning Dean and I have spoken of you, and your amazing efforts - I knew that you had a strong will, but seriously this determination is amazing! An inspiration to us all.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 02:46 am
Hey Al, In those conditions even camels would struggle to survive!
What a fantastic effort; we're all really proud of you and the reason you're doing it........Not long now!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 02:21 am
You are sooo amazing we wrote you a poem!!!!
When your running and youve got no puff,
Imagine your at a bar ordering a Fuffy Duck!!(or Sloe gin)
Or swimming in a lap pool
if you can imagine,
Just remember back at home,
we all think your a legend!!!
Go Al go
Your nearly there you know!!!
Love Scotty and the Im such a good poet(not) and I dont know it Jodi XXXx
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 02:15 am
You make it sound easy mate.....ha!
Fantastic effort mate, I am inspired by your efforts. Enjoy the finish line, and make sure to take it all in, as I am sure it will be an overwhelming moment!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 02:02 am
Al. I guess there is no choice now. You are a winner whatever you do. An awesome legend of a winner. I will give you a foot rub any time you want. Good luck on the spiritual steps xxx and enjoy your hotbath soon xxx so so amazed. Well done
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:53 pm
Al - RESPECT.....you are a hard unit! Off to NZ now so will not see the finish but having come this far I know you will get there. Amazing effort.
All the best and see you at home. Cheers,
Will, Sara, Harry,Zali and Bebe
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:44 pm
Wow. Lost for words. Well done.
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:30 pm
Seriously maaaaaaaaaaaaate, a superhuman effort on stages 4 & 5, everyone here who I talk to is just in awe of your achievements out there in the Gobi maaaate, just amazing, can't emphasise enough how proud we are, good luck with the final stage, it may be shorter but still it will be hard given the what you have been through, all the very best maaaaaaaaate, said it before but..."YOU ARE MACHINE...!!!!"
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:11 pm
Broadsword, Danny Boy here, do you read, over...? Well done old chap, HRH is very proud of you, your promotion is now a certainty!! Mission almost complete, look forward to buying you a cold one in the Mess, old boy...out for now...
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:03 pm
I hope you are not in too much pain, hope you get better soon, what an amazing journey you have been on in the desert, well done, see you when you get back, love Annabel
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 10:53 pm
You are the best, I hope you finish the last stage ok, see you soon, Will
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 10:48 pm
You're Awesome!!!! What a fantastic effort, Al. All the best on the last stage. xx
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 10:00 pm
Just amazing. Legend. Keep it up not far to go. Fantastic effort Al.
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 09:45 pm
Wow, can't imagine how hard or painful the last 2 stages were. They sound like hell+gst. Glad your still in one piece, not long till a well deserved good feed a cold beer. Well done so far, really proud of your efforts.
Scott
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 04:31 pm
So close now. I hope the last stage is not too painful. An incredible achievement! Well done xx
28 June 2011 04:35 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
A quick blog today after stage three as we have a 3 hour bus trip in the morning and need to get up at 3! Great day today. Legs felt good for most of the day and managed to run most of the way. In at 46 position which was nice but still way too early to get confident as its bloody hot out here! Blisters were a big issue today because the first 10k of the course was on river rocks with a number of fairly deep crossings meaning feet got wet. I took out my inner soles and ran without them so I could put them in dry at the first checkpoint with dry socks. Great move as no blisters. The two I have have not got any worse. Talk of 45 tomorrow at the peak of the day. The heat will now form a big part of the strategy as being out there in there in the afternoon is murder. There is enormous respect for the guys walking the course. They are coming in at 5 and 6 pm which must be very difficult. As much as I am hurting a bit after the run today and would like to take it easy before the long day, I think getting out of the sun is just as important so will probably try and do that without popping a gasket. Will see how we go.
Thank you all so much for your comments and emails. I am sorry I cannot reply as we have limited time on the computer. Just know that they are doing the job in keeping me motivated. Even shed a tear tonight! Off to bed – see you tomorrow.
Susan - the rock tape Rocks!! No Chafing.
Thank you all so much for your comments and emails. I am sorry I cannot reply as we have limited time on the computer. Just know that they are doing the job in keeping me motivated. Even shed a tear tonight! Off to bed – see you tomorrow.
Susan - the rock tape Rocks!! No Chafing.
Comments: Total (42) comments
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 12:53 pm
INCREDIBLE, INSPIRATIONAL. what an amazing story. we have such respect for your ability to achieve what most of us would never even dream of contemplating - well done x
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:27 am
OK....smarty pants ...now you are really showing off!
All this drama beforehand only for you to end up in the fastest 27%....! I was beginning to feel sorry for you...?!
We cant wait for the stories around the dinner table, and am sure you will get some well deserved mileage from them!!!
Lots of love xx
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:14 am
Blisters? Sand dunes? Miles of running in blinding heat? That's nothin' compared to an elbow in you butt hey Alistair! Just kidding - I am in awe. Tears spring to my eyes and I am so proud to see that Aussie flag doing so well (Oh- and you too of course!).
Go the rock tape!
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:07 am
keep going you are coming 38 and i miss you and i love you love immi
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 11:02 am
go dad keep runing fast like a
machine good job coming 38 love from hugo
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 08:27 am
WOW!!! You are a SUPERSTAR - almost there now. What an amazing effort - Like nothing we have ever known!
Dean and Kirst.
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 06:08 am
Al, Just saw the result for stage 5- OUTSTANDING!! What an amazing effort and you should be proud of what you have achieved. You are up a couple of places and it only took 18.21 hours! Top effort and an easy (now) 10 k to the finish. All the best and have a Champers about it when you get back. Looks like I owe you money. Cheers,
Will
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 06:03 am
Amazing effort & truly inspiring to us back at home. May your energy & spirits stay strong all the way to the finish.
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 05:26 am
Go Alistair, coming home with a wet sail!
Apart from exhausted, you must be stoked, well done, enjoy the rest day & the last stage.
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 02:32 am
May the road to recovery be easier than the road just travelled. I am sure the amazing experience was worth every bit of pain. WELL DONE !
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 01:51 am
Al, truly have tears in my eyes now...lost for words at your demonstration of effort and hope. You must be almost done.. You are almost done... Walk strong
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 10:53 pm
Alistair what an amazing, awe inspiring effort and achievement. Well done again!!! We're all thinking of you and following your journey. Stay stafe and all the best for the final 2 stages. :)
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:05 pm
Stellar performance Alistair. We are so proud of you. Nearly there!
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 01:32 pm
Don't let a few blisters get in your way.......you should ring the local CAT dealer and get them to level out some of those hills!
Keep up the awesome effort.
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 12:33 pm
Awesome effort Al.......Keep going we're all with you.
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 09:40 am
Go Al! We have subscribed to the hourly race updates & are becoming quite addicted. If that yellow blood doesn't keep you running, hopefully knowing we are all watching will! Take care mate, and don't forget to have fun!
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 09:00 am
We are with you maaaaaaate, we are with with you all the way, we are sending you the Strong Vibe, you 'd man' man, listen to this..."WE ALL THINK YOU ARE AMAZING!!!...." GO, CAT GO!!!
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 12:47 am
Al, absolutely incredible!! You are going great guns. An outstanding effort. Can't wait to hear all those fabulous stories. Rest up. Keep going. Take care, Hocks, Bud, Scarlett, Chase & Darcey xxxxx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:28 am
It's nice that everyone is supporting you so strongly but to be honest we're a bit disappointed at your performance. There are 40+ people doing better than you are which is a lot. Hang in there and try to improve your effort. See if you can overtake at least one person in stage 4. We'll be hoping you put in a better effort tomorrow. I trust that this Blog entry is inspiring you onwards and upwards, especially since we have written it whilst on the couch after a dinner of flake, potato cakes and dim sims. All our love, keep up the amazing work :)
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 10:49 am
Al you are amazing - truly inspirational!!!! We are all glued to this link, constantly checking for updates and insights. Stay strong and healthy. On the home stretch now! Kendall, AJ, Ella, Will & Harry
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 10:29 am
Am with the kids tonight and we are addicted to checking results and looking for photos of you .... we found one :) !! In the car on the way to the Miley Cyrus concert Lilli was telling her friends about you and how well you're doing, quote: "My Dad is in middle of the Gobi March and he is doing so well ... how cool is that?!" xx you have some very proud kids boasting about your awesome effort
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 10:16 am
per ardua ad astra
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 08:03 am
I am so impressed! What an amazing and interesting journey. Keep up the good work, Alistair!
We are all thinking of you.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 07:52 am
Still going I see.....excellent. Keep up the good work and I am sure you are now looking forward to the last day....lengthened out to 100K! Legend is all I can say.
Stay strong mate and take a teaspoon of concrete and.......
Cheers,
Will and Sara
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 07:27 am
Broadsword, do you read, Danny Boy here...? Over...hey had a great meeting with HRH, got lots to tell you when you return!! You are machine Broadsword, you have been made for this Mission and are doing the most fantastic job, everyone here is just in awe of your efforts, when the chips are down, just listen out for..."come on maaaaaaaaaaaaaate, you are doing a sensational job, keep going, you can do it..." Pack in the Reload, out for now...
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 06:18 am
keep going dad run as fast as a LEOPARD hope you don't see any .... Love you Lilli xxxxxxxxoooooooooxxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 06:15 am
i miss you and I love you and i have some presents for you
Love Immi
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 06:10 am
What an amazing effort... keep strong!!!
What are your legs?...springs...steel springs...!!!!
All our love xx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 05:15 am
Al, did that sand dunes remind you of coffin bay at all?? Maybe just the coffin bit i guess. Hope your mind is staying with you. You are going to have some great stories to tell when you are a grandpa xxxx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 03:29 am
Broadsword, this is Jim McConnel, I am filling in for Danny Boy, he has had to go to a meeting with HRH concerning something very important, something about a promotion or a Knighthood or something!!! Anyway, he has told me about what you are up to in the Gobi, sounds awesome, you are doing an amazing job, the whole of Team CAT are willing you on, maaaaaaaaaaate!!!
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:36 am
42nd after stage 3- truly amazing! The thought of those sand dunes is killing me,but I know you will manage them somehow.It is the homeward stretch now,albeit a long one, so keep up the good work x
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 12:31 am
Awesome! really impressed with your endurance, keep up the good work
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 12:16 am
Half way! All you have to do now is do what you have already done. Well done and good luck
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 12:05 am
46 out of 143 ... very impressive! We are behind you all the way, a truly inspirational performance no matter how it turns out. Great effort, keep the faith and stay safe. See you soon.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 11:30 pm
Keep up the great effort the whole service department is behind you just imagine you are on your motorbike when things get tough.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 11:21 pm
Thanks for spending the time to update your blog! Feels like I am in your backpack... Stay focused and push on!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:53 pm
Good work so far, your strategies so far have been spot on, keep up the great work.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:43 pm
On a roll. Keep it up!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:42 pm
Fantastic effort again Alistair!! It is so inspirational and exciting following your journey. All the very best today. I hope you manage to beat the heat. Chris :)
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:17 pm
Bloody fantastic Al. Hang in there
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:10 pm
You are amazing maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate!! Seriously awesome stuff, great effort, keep going maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaate!!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 09:45 pm
Fantastic effort Alistair. Keep strong.
27 June 2011 03:43 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
After a very tough day yesterday a thick fog gave us a reprieve from what was going to be an even tougher day today. The race was unable to start until 12 and the course was shortened to about 20km to make sure the walkers were given enough time to get into camp before dark and give the rest of us a chance to recover from yesterday. The course was pretty flat today so a quick 2 and a bit hours got me to camp for a cuppa and some warm clothes. It has been raining for a good part of today which is pretty unusual for this time of year in the desert. It is also cold so everyone is rugged up and trying stay warm with minimal clothing. Most people are in their sleeping bags taking advantage of the short day to get some rest before a big day tomorrow. We are all waiting to see if the course will be altered to make up for the 20km lost today. There is talk of a 100km long day instead of the planned 80 – something we are trying not to think too much about!
Lots of social time today with 5 or 6 hours in our tents this morning and more this afternoon waiting for the rain to stop. We have a great group of people in “Team Antelope” (the name of our tent) and are having lots of laughs. While it’s nice to have a shorter day, most are taking the opportunity to eat and rest before the long days ahead. With 2 more days like yesterday and the long stage, no one is being too complacent about our lucky break today.More tomorrow – no doubt in a much more exhausted state than I’m in now. A.
Lots of social time today with 5 or 6 hours in our tents this morning and more this afternoon waiting for the rain to stop. We have a great group of people in “Team Antelope” (the name of our tent) and are having lots of laughs. While it’s nice to have a shorter day, most are taking the opportunity to eat and rest before the long days ahead. With 2 more days like yesterday and the long stage, no one is being too complacent about our lucky break today.More tomorrow – no doubt in a much more exhausted state than I’m in now. A.
Comments: Total (1) comments
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 03:52 pm
Goo onya Alistair, hope that the quiter day helped the blisters a little.
Very inspirational you folks up there, we will be willing you all to the end from the comfort of our lounge suites, or in my case the hotel room in Singapore.
27 June 2011 03:39 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
Wow. That was brutal! Excitement about only having to do 34km for day 1, turned to horror as the altitude (2300m) and hills let us know that this is not going to be an easy race. In fact if the rest of the days are like today this is going to be a very long and hard week!! The biggest issue today was altitude which as we climbed over 2000m sucked the breath right of you and any though of running was brought to a sudden halt. I have no idea how many meters of climbing we did today but it certainly felt like a lot and the last half of the day was spent walking with plenty of stops to get breath back. Finished in about 6hours and 40mins but have no idea where that puts me in the pack. There are still plenty of people coming in. On a positive note, the scenery is breathtaking with high mountains all around and I have never seen anything like it. The people so far are great although there wasn’t much talking today! I have a great tent and everyone is trying to make light of a very tough day – lots of laughing at the thought of doing it again tomorrow! Two blisters unfortunately, which I am about to go and get fixed. A bit disappointed at getting them as I didn’t feel a thing all day. No other injuries to report and despite the tough day from altitude the legs are feeling very good. The rest of the day is going to be spent eating and getting some rest. Thanks for all your wonderful messages on email – I didn’t realize how much they would mean to me until today so keep them coming! More tomorrow. Alistair.
Comments: Total (34) comments
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 12:35 pm
What an outstanding effort!!! You are doing us all proud. You are truly inspiring. Keep going. Can't wait to read your next up date. Hope those little blisters are ok. Enjoy. Keep smiling. Thinking of you. Lots of love, Bud, Hocks, Scarlett, Chase & Darcey xxxx
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 12:29 pm
awesome work man
i am insanely jealous you are clearly now the maddest dad yr 4 stpeters and will take some beating!!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 12:06 pm
Al, this is becoming quite addictive, logging on looking for updates and photos, I might start planning your next race to feed this habit.!!!! All the team are wishing you well. Stay strong. Cheers G
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 06:14 am
congratulations Al ... absolutely amazing job you're doing. Sim&kids so excited and proud, as we all are. Know we are all cheering you on from home, Nini xxx
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:37 am
Holy Mountains Al - you are a gosh darn legend.
At 58th place that is unreal ... Just spectacular!!!
Pace yourself bro, pace yourself... hump day tomorrow - well done
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:25 am
Broadsword, you are a machine maaaaaaaaaaaaaate, despite the holes in your feet, you nailed Stage 2 and are now 58th, absolutely sensational effort maaaaaaaaaate, just amazing!!! Good luck today, you will be on the course already, just remember HRH is right behind you on this mission!!! Best, Danny Boy, out for now...
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:04 am
Hi Dad...you are doing an amazing job sitting 58th at end of stage 2.
I love you
Love Hugo
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:28 pm
Inspirational stuff. Hopefully your feet are holding up a little better than the feet on your website. Proud of you. Good luck for day 2. Nick, Jack & Bella.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:14 pm
Great effort so far Alistair. Keep it up and stay strong.
Cheers Paul
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 10:48 pm
Waking up at 1am for the latest stage report reminds me of waking up for your 1am feed 40 years ago! All worth it. Keep up the good work and good luck for stage 3.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 10:12 pm
Mate..sensational effort...we are in awe of what you are achieving out there! Keep it up. Cheers, AJ & Kendall
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 05:11 pm
I'm getting quite teary just reading about
your amazing efforts! What a terrific, life changing experience. Not sure you will be thinking that until you cross the finish line though. Following you all the way. Tam and Charles xxxx
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 02:22 pm
Great job on stage 1. Don't worry too much about the difficulty, they did the same thing to us last year and it got better after that first day.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:05 pm
Eye on the goal Al! Brilliant work. LuluRan
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 12:48 pm
Bloody Hell Al - hang in there!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:34 am
Well done mate. Good news is only takes 2 weeks for the body to acclimatize to altitude ............ Oh! Hope blisters aren't a problem. Behind you all the way. Paul & Helen.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:23 am
Fantastic effort Al. Also glued to the site and will follow your efforts from afar. Here's hoping day 2 goes well. DKCW
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 10:35 am
Mad dogs & Englishmen - you trump them all. Our thoughts are with you. Jackie & Alister
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 09:31 am
Great work thus far Al, nearly there mate.Stay strong
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 06:11 am
Crumbs, go for it Al. Patrick
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 06:03 am
Well done Al, head down plow on.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 05:16 am
One day done and now you can no longer be considered a novice at 'extreme-silly-male-behaviour'. And I am so glad that you are amongst other mad men. Know that your body can do the weirdest things and so will probably let you keep abusing it. Jodi would think you rock and so do we! Cheers Susan E
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:33 am
its great to be able to stay up to date with you and your journey... keep pushing on!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:18 am
I hear Yaks urine is the thing for blisters........Stay strong & pace yourself. Jeremy
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 02:36 am
go alistaire! remember pain is only temporary.
great job.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:10 am
Al, you go mate, I think your amazing just thinking of doing this and now you are doing it. I know the cosmos will be good to you.
Keep on striding Nat
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:50 pm
Go Big Al - Well done, sounds like a killer day but one down......Will be watching with anticipation to see you get through every day. Watch those blisters!! Keep up the good work, oh and you might want to get some rest!!!
Cheers Will
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:38 pm
Way to go Al. They say if you can get through these first two days you are well on your way to making the finish. Keep those sprits high like the altitude. May the power be with you!!
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:26 pm
Good work mate, you said Day One would sort the men from the boys.
Keep up the fluids, all the best for Stage 2.
Scott
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 10:33 pm
Well done Alistair. That's such a fantastic effort. The altitude must make it extremely difficult . I hope your blisters don't bother you today. All the very best for Stage 2. Best wishes Chris :)
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 10:10 pm
Broadsword, what an awesome effort maaaaaaaaaaaaaaate, just fantastic, seen some of the photos, Mt Hotham looks tame compared to what you have just been through, all the best for the next stage, cheers Danny Boy
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 09:51 pm
Fantastic effort, Alistair. Good luck for stage 2. I am glued to my Ipad!! Mum x
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 09:08 pm
Great work Al, keep up the fluids, look after the feet and stay strong.
Cheers G
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 09:08 pm
Great work Al, keep up the fluids, look after the feet and stay strong.
Cheers G
01 June 2011 11:41 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
Heading into the final weeks before race start and I can feel the butterflies building! I have been travelling overseas for the last few weeks so training has consisted of the weekly long run (one in Paris, one in New York and one in Chicago!) and a few short ones in between but not as much as I would have liked. Fortunately I hit myself pretty hard before I left with a 3 day "traning camp" which consisted of 3 runs strung together over 3 days - 40km & 50km on trails in the Adelaide hills and 35km on the beach. I slept in a tent for one of those nights and ate "Gobi" food for three days to see how I would respond. All in all I was pretty happy other than getting the sudden realisation that this is not going to be an easy week! Chafing on my waist after the big days is still an issue and I am mucking around trying to find an appropriate remedy. Fortunately no blisters as yet.
This week will be the last big week before I start to taper off the mileage and begin to sort out gear / food etc. I will admit to buying a 32litre pack to make the job of packing a little easier but I am going to try and use the 25 if possible. Making that work is going to take the best part of the next three weeks!! 25 litres is not very big for a weeks gear and food. I must be missing something - going to have to confide in my fellow compeitors from OZ to help me through it I think - Sandy? Dean? I must say I am really looking forward to meeting everyone and getting the race underway - the suspense is killing me! Today has been spent thinking about loo paper strategy! I am told how much I take will depend on whether I am a "folder" or "scruncher". The very fact that I am talking about this in a blog should be illustration enough of what happens to a 4 deserts competitor in the weeks leading up to a race. Its obviously time to get things under way!!
On the fundraising front things are going well - as of today I have breached the $20,000 barrier - funds raised going to the Jodi Lee Foundation to promote early detection of bowel cancer. I am gobsmacked at the generosity of my supporters and am sure their support will help me through some of the tough moments wich will undoubtedly occur during the race.
Anyway folks - more later - Loo paper to count!!
Comments: Total (8) comments
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 07:15 am
Hanging in there nicely, pleased to hear the blisters are co-operating a bit more.
Cheers Jeremy
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:01 am
good show DAD
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 09:37 am
Best of luck Alistair. Stay out of trouble and safe. I'm sure all the training will pay off.
Oh, and Cathy says" one foot in front of the other.....eyes on the prize". Simple strategy!!
Grant and Cathy
Posted On: 22 Jun 2011 02:28 am
All the best big fella! What a great effort for a great cause. At least you won't have some annoying bugger capturing the pain with his flip video!
Posted On: 06 Jun 2011 12:06 pm
Cav......
Well, it is Crunch time, or is that Scrunch time? I have no bloody idea how to fill a 25 litre pack, but will try my best this weekend in a practice fill..even though I have not bought any food and need a full re-stock of electrolytes. So will be really filling it with old clothes, bag of potatoes and anything i can squash in. I don't have the advice as I have little idea to be honest. But tomorrow am going online and buying everything else that I need in full. Might do express delivery and get it back ASAP. Have no idea how to taper so am going to go out this coming weekend and bascially back off in the last 2 weeks. And then let's do this. Let's all look after each other. Nobody's allowed to get dehydrated. Nobody's getting sick. We are all going to do this. And love it. And put one foot in front of the other. Fantastic work on the fundraising - brilliant job. I think we are all on different planes - I guess will see you in Urumqi !!!....dt
Posted On: 03 Jun 2011 07:53 am
The loo paper talk ties in quite nicely with bowel cancer and the Jodi Lee Foundation, don't you think?
Posted On: 03 Jun 2011 05:07 am
Hi Alistair it is certainly getting closer to the date and I am so looking forward to getting on that plane and heading to China. Must say I am looking forward to some type of tapper as so dark and cold I think I have run the batteries out on my headlight torch running before work and only ever being in the dark with a little bit of light when I finish.
As for getting all your stuff in the backpack you can do it just squash it in and fill all the little spaces around the pack. One of the best ideas is to take things out of there original packs and put in small snap lock bags and then have one big snap lock marked for each day crush it all and squash it in the bag. Just bring lots of snaplocks and I can show you when we get to China. Col and I leave it all in the original package incase customs want to check it and then undo and repack in snap locks when we get to the motel. Send me an email if I can help anymore Sandy
Posted On: 03 Jun 2011 02:22 am
Take wet-wipes instead of "loo" paper (toilet paper to us yanks).
Take less space and are more efficient whether you are a folder or scruncher....
23 March 2011 04:08 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
The Gobi March is now moving from an "idea that made me run a bit" into something that has now got me working seriously hard! With the race at the end of June, April and May are effectively all that is left to get the legs and body into gear, some more money raised for the Jodi Lee Foundation and finally sort out the kit I will need to take with me to China. The last 6 months have seen me get a good base into my legs ready for the next couple of months of hard work. I also ran the New York Marathon in November which was an absolutely awesome event - one where the minute it is over you want to do it again. I'm kinda hoping Gobi will be like that for me but you'll have to ask me at the finish!
I'm happy with the running so far and pretty comfortably running 30-40km when I find the time (not always easy!) This week is a week of half marathons with the plan to get 4 done in the work week rather than the usual one long run (30-40km) and a number of shorter runs (10km) mid week. The idea I am working with now is to begin to string longer runs together to get the body used to running longer with shorter recovery time. I am no expert at running though so I'm sort of winging a strategy based on my cycling experience, a heap of reading and a few very helpful hints from Ray Zahab (of Gobi fame). If the people I meet in China are anywhere near as helpful and cheerful as Ray this is going to be an awesome race. To me, its the people that will make this fun and I am really looking forward to meeting everyone, including "Team Australia" some of who have all made contact through blog or email. There are 17 Australians in the event this year - almost enough to justify Vegemite being included in the "compulsory" gear list!!
I am planning a training "camp" in April before Easter to string a few 40km days together, eat the food I'll eat in China and sleep out a night or two to see how i respond with no sleep and crap food! Its going to be an interesting but necessary experience. As time goes on, I am learning that the physical act of running is not what is bothering me. Its the pack rash after 6 hours in the rain, the chafing just about everywhere it's possible to chafe, the watch battery failing mid run, the ipod failing at the same time and that evil voice in my head telling me to stop. I think it might have been Ray who said that a race like this is 95% mental and the other 5% is in your head! Well he is not far off and a big part of the next 2 months is putting myself far enough outside my comfort zone that the voice goes away and some of the discomforts of long distance running become a physical issue and not a mental one. I'll keep you posted on how this goes - if there is any competition in a race like this I suspect it will not be my fellow participants in the Gobi, it will be that evil dude in my head who just doesn't know when to shut up!
The fundraising for the Jodi Lee Foundation is on track with nearly $11,000 raised so far and some more pledged. Thank you so much to all of you who have donated or lent your support. Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in Australia and the Jodi Lee Foundation's vision is to knock this disease down the list by raising awareness and encouraging early screening. Jodi was 42 when she died and early detection may well have saved her life. 90% of bowel cancers are curable if detected early. If my run across the Gobi helps to save one person from going through what Jodi did I will be very happy.
Well that's enough for now - as always I will sign off by saying I will update you all more often than I have to date and I honestly leave you with the best intentions of doing just that! The aim is shorter blogs more often. I am also developing my facebook and twitter skills so for those interested you can get more regular updates there.
Bye for now.
Cheers! Alistair.
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 28 Mar 2011 01:15 am
Hey Alistair this is one of the members of "team Australia" reporting in .....just love it..... and love the idea of the vegemite.....if you want to carry it I will help you eat it that way your pack weight will go down faster each day....oh now guess that doesn't sound fair really...perhaps we can share carrying it amongst us all....... I just love the stuff and have been known to eat it out of the jar...pretty bad I know and I am vegetarian so that makes it even worse........ good luck with all your packing and training See you in China Sandy
Posted On: 23 Mar 2011 12:01 pm
Alistair, u r a true inspiration and an amazing person. Scotty, the kids and I will be cheering u on from Adelaide. Keep the focus and hang tight!! Xx
06 November 2010 08:57 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
Well here I am, sitting at a cafe in New York, the day before one of the biggest marathons in the world, stuffing my face with porridge and pancakes before meeting the Jodi Lee Foundation team for a pasta lunch. I am still waking up at 4 from jet lag but that's probably a good thing with an early start to get to the race tomorrow. Its cold and sunny - perfect running weather. Going to try and not do too much today to save the legs so thought a blog update would be the perfect way to reflect on the journey so far and contemplate what's ahead.
While it's a big race tomorrow, and my first ever marathon, I still need to keep reminding myself that I'm only about to qualify for the next 8 months of training for Gobi. I must admit though, I am looking forward to it! As for tomorrow, I am very glad to have got this far without any major injury which is quite incredible. As someone who has suffered from quite bad Arthritis for a very long time, I never thought I would be here in New York about to run a marathon. Anyway, here I am and tomorrow with luck (and a fair amount of sweat!) I will be able to call myself a marathoner.
The last few months have been very busy. Training has gone pretty much to plan and I have managed to stick to most of the program of long runs. The last long run, 37 km, was 4 weeks ago and I have been in "taper" mode since. While most relish the rest from training, I have found it to be a challenging time. An arthritis sufferer's motto is "keep moving" and the taper period has somewhat challenged this theory and my body. I also think I have become a little bit addicted to the regular training regime and to slow down from this has made me feel a little off colour. After 4 weeks I am ready to run - no more waiting - bring it on!!
The most significant satisfaction of the last few months has been on the fundraising front. Up until now I have been raising money for the Cure Cancer Australia Foundation and, through a tremendous amount of early support, have managed to raise over $10,000! Thank you to all of you have supported me and Cure Cancer Australia so far - your generosity has been overwhelming and I am very grateful. Moving forward, I will be running for the Jodi Lee Foundation, an organisation set up to honour the memory of Jodi Lee who died of Bowel Cancer in January, aged 41. Jodi was diagnosed a year or so earlier and at the time of her diagnosis the disease was at a very advanced stage. She had very little warning and her symptoms were very vague. The heartbreaking thing is that an earlier diagnosis would most likely have saved her life - bowel cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer if caught early. In Australia, It kills more people than breast cancer and cervical cancer combined. It is also thought of as an older persons disease and not much thought is given to being tested for the disease under 50. The Jodi Lee Foundation has been established to encourage earlier screening for those at higher risk of bowel cancer and to fund research into the detection, prevention and cure of the disease. All funds raised in support of my participation in the Gobi March will specifically support the research component of the Foundations' objectives and the Cure Cancer Australia Foundation remains as the recipient of these funds. To visit the Jodi Lee Foundation go to www.jodileefoundation.org.au or become a friend on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jodileefoundation .
For now, it's the New York Marathon - the first test on my way to the Gobi. I thought it would probably be a good idea to check that I can run a marathon before attempting 6 in a row in June! All is looking good so far...stay tuned!
Comments: Total (3) comments
Posted On: 10 Jan 2011 03:22 am
Alistair, thought I would connect. I have just registered for Gobi. Congrats on NY marathon -awesome city to do it in. I've started my training and buying all of the gear. Have also been doing a bit more reading on the web about how hard this thing is going to be.
Anyway - look forward to connecting with you over the next few months and then in 6 months as we take on China...dt
Posted On: 11 Dec 2010 04:31 am
Hi Alistair, my husband Colin and myself are also doing Gobi (and live in Ozz) so will look forward to meeting you in China......It will be so great to experience the wonderful delights a desert offers....just amazing really. How did you go with the marathon!?? ... such a great experience and achievement. Col and I live in Melbourne so are just starting to enjoy this lovely warm weather coming our way beats training over winter for sure. Happy training Sandy
Posted On: 06 Nov 2010 10:52 pm
Go for it Alistair and good luck !
10 May 2010 12:13 pm (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
Quietly working on getting in place all the things I need to make this run a success...
Get a Website together - www.kamchatkafoundation.com.
Pick a Charity - Can Too for the Cure Cancer Australia Foundation.
Write a letter to send out to potential donors and supporters.
Start Running - slowing adding to the distance and on about 70km a week with a 20km long run.
Develop a training program with some intermediate goals - New York Marathon in November - thought I'd better check I can do one before I go much further!!
I figure if I can get all this out of the way now I can spend the rest of the year concentrating on running and fundraising - aiming to raise to $20,000 by the end of the Gobi.
So far so good with the running - glad to be over the 20km barrier....next stop 30!
A.
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 06:11 am
dad i still cant believe that u put hugo on there and not me
very proud of u for doing this web
although im not sure about u doing the race
luv u
lillixxxooox
Posted On: 12 May 2010 03:30 am
Nice fish Alistair! Will be great to hear how your preparations take shape over the next year. Be sure to follow all the news and blogs from the race next month! Sam H - RacingThePlanet
19 December 2009 03:33 am (GMT+09:30) Adelaide
This is the first entry for my "Gobi Project". 18 months to go and lots to do - most of it in the fitness department and all of it to occur very gradually to avoid the usual mistake of getting injured in the excitement. That's why I have chosen the 2011 race over 2010. I have all of next year to build up to some of the longer events on the Calendar, most of which occur later in the Australian year. I also get to follow Gobi 2010 and soak up the lessons and experiences before jumping in myself.
I have never done anything like this before (part of the attraction) and will put a fair bit of energy into understanding the race from past entrants. I'm really enjoying the blog section and have worked out how to read them on the i-phone while travelling - an essential skill! My experience to date is limited to multistage bike races and a few solid treks (Kokoda Track etc) - the running thing is fairly new to me but so far so good. This is also why I don't want to rush the prep work as I have some work to do on the legs - cycling is a bit different. The first thing I have found is the amount of stretching required for a runner is exponentially greater than for a cyclist. I'm going to have to work hard on this and even considering taking up Yoga to help. Any advice in this area will be much appreciated.
One of the great things about taking on something like this that it provides focus and energy to a training program and to life in general. I am extremely goal oriented and the bigger and more difficult the goal the more engaged and focused I become. I am really looking forward to the training, the reading, the shopping (I'm a bit of a gear addict!), meeting other competitors and generally the whole experience. No doubt there will be many challenges, much pain, and moments where it all seems too hard. But in the end, I think that's why we all do these things....
Can't guarantee a regular blog this early but will certainly try and log progress, issues, challenges and experiences when I can.
Will provide details of my fundraising initiative, Cure Cancer Australia, next time round.
Cheers.
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 21 Dec 2009 08:20 am
That chap is the oldest "Fuzzy Wuzzy Angel" alive today and the medals on his chest were presented by the Prime Minister of Australia. The "angels" were native Papua New Guineans who rescued and carried wounded Australian Soldiers to safety along the Kokoda Track in World War II. They are legends in Australian History and I was lucky enough to meet this man when I walked the track in 2003.
Thanks for the message....really looking forward to the challenge. Happy Christmas!
Posted On: 21 Dec 2009 07:59 am
Hi Alistair!
Great to see you getting started so early. Who's the chap in the photo with you? The blogs are an amazing source of information and inspiration and it's people like you who will continue the tradition of inspiring and informing others in the year to come.
Have a great Christmas - and I hope all your gear dreams come true under the tree...
Warm regards
Sam H - multimedia manager, RacingThePlanet
Comments: Total (11) comments
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