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Gobi March Blogs 2011
12
PostsGobi March (2011) blog posts from Kobi Janssen
03 July 2011 11:48 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi,
Our rest day was terrible, 54 degrees in the sun! The tents were boiling, so the only option was to rest outside in the finish tent. Some people still had to come in. Imagine, in this weather. We were lucky to be able to do it in the dark.
Tried to go to bed early. We still had 10 km to go for stage 6.
Of course, guess what, a sand storm!!!! Our tent almost flew away, we had to change places in the tent, sand everywhere, no one could go outside, and what about the track for tomorrow???
You should have seen the people in the morning...everyone covered in a layer of red sand. All men's beards full of sand, my eyes were totally swollen and since this is the last day, no wet wipes anymore. Some tents were broken, and the medical team had to change tents, theirs was gone...
Out for the last 10 km, actually it was 14 km. Gabi and me decided to make it a bit faster, and off we went. We did it in 2 hours and 4 minutes. Amazing! Flying down in the flaming mountain, in the canyon until we suddenly were faced with a camel who was right in the middle of our path. First we were shouting for the owner, no one was there, so we passed it sideways with a lot of hesitation, and went on. It was great to finally to reach the finish, hear the drums and the flute music to accompany our arrival.
And the scenery was amazing, really nice.
And that was it. Back to the hotel for the shower. Every drop is appreciated. What a luxury!
A nice banquet in the evening and saying goodbye to all the participants.
Thanks again for all your support! It was the treat of the day to go to the cybertent and read all your encouragements!
Thanks a lot and a big hug.
kobi
01 July 2011 04:05 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
HI there, Thanks again for all your interest,love and friendship.
We had a hard day. In stage 4 Wendy got really dehydrated. We stopped a lot to get her on her feet again, but the doctor decided she could not start the "Long March". Really sad. She was very disappointed of course, but she decided she will pick it up for the last 10 km in the last day. In this way we still can finish together. Hope she is going for this. That would be really nice.
So our team is not existing anymore. Gabi and me continued as individuals.
And we did, but Oh my God, it was soooo hot, definitely 50 degrees, all under sealevel. It was a very hard day and long. We finished at 3 am. I have for the first time two blisters. You should see the feet of some people : awful. Really, you don;t understand one can still walk with those, but minds seem to be very strong! We did a better time than we were expecting, and were very glad we could not see where we were walking in the dark.Mind on zero and just keep going! It all seemed sooo long. A pity that the terrain was quite boring during the day. Straight vehicle track or battling the scrubs for ages. Distances also seemed to be longer than put forward. So quite discouraging. Only when the night set in, we crossed some villages. Realy cute. All people sleeping on the street and watching us. a lot of "Hallo's" (or should I say Harro's Marie?). But we couldn't take pictures of them. It was very difficult to take pictures anywhere.
This morning woke up and the setting of the camp is really pretty. This is our restday. We really deserve it. Only had 3 hours sleep.See what I still have left of food. I am sooo hungry. Yesterday took stuff out of my food ration of today. So will have to beg some food from other people. And it is so hot again.
This will be my last blog. Tomorrow they will not set up the satelite connection, but I will be going to the hotel after the 10KM. I will call you, joost, to let you know my whereabouts. Really looking forward to the barbecue and real nice food. Especially salads, something fresh!
Big kisses and hugs and kobi will be out of the Gobi tomorrow! Thanks again for all the support and see you soon!
We had a hard day. In stage 4 Wendy got really dehydrated. We stopped a lot to get her on her feet again, but the doctor decided she could not start the "Long March". Really sad. She was very disappointed of course, but she decided she will pick it up for the last 10 km in the last day. In this way we still can finish together. Hope she is going for this. That would be really nice.
So our team is not existing anymore. Gabi and me continued as individuals.
And we did, but Oh my God, it was soooo hot, definitely 50 degrees, all under sealevel. It was a very hard day and long. We finished at 3 am. I have for the first time two blisters. You should see the feet of some people : awful. Really, you don;t understand one can still walk with those, but minds seem to be very strong! We did a better time than we were expecting, and were very glad we could not see where we were walking in the dark.Mind on zero and just keep going! It all seemed sooo long. A pity that the terrain was quite boring during the day. Straight vehicle track or battling the scrubs for ages. Distances also seemed to be longer than put forward. So quite discouraging. Only when the night set in, we crossed some villages. Realy cute. All people sleeping on the street and watching us. a lot of "Hallo's" (or should I say Harro's Marie?). But we couldn't take pictures of them. It was very difficult to take pictures anywhere.
This morning woke up and the setting of the camp is really pretty. This is our restday. We really deserve it. Only had 3 hours sleep.See what I still have left of food. I am sooo hungry. Yesterday took stuff out of my food ration of today. So will have to beg some food from other people. And it is so hot again.
This will be my last blog. Tomorrow they will not set up the satelite connection, but I will be going to the hotel after the 10KM. I will call you, joost, to let you know my whereabouts. Really looking forward to the barbecue and real nice food. Especially salads, something fresh!
Big kisses and hugs and kobi will be out of the Gobi tomorrow! Thanks again for all the support and see you soon!
Comments: Total (8) comments
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 08:56 pm
Kobi, ik heb diep, diep respect voor wat je hebt gepresteerd. Erg goed. Gefeliciteerd!!! En nu.....een glaasje heerlijk koel, koud bier.... :- ))
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 07:36 am
Amazing job Kobi - you must be really chuffed. I know what you mean about craving salads - great to have something that hasn't had to have water added to it to make it edible!! Hope you had a lovely shower and get home soon to tell all your tales! Jo
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 06:10 am
Fulfilment at last. You did it Kobi. Congratulations. You are superwoman, you are invincible. Be great to see you soon for tips. Take care and take a nice long deserved rest.
Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 12:36 am
Kobi,
Big accomplishment ! Congratulations and well done ! I am sure that the first thing you wanna have now is some real good food ... Looking forward to hear your story once you are back in Hong Kong.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 03:46 pm
Congratulations Kobi! you are so amazing. I loved keeping up with your updates. Have a well deserved holiday and eat lots of wonderful food.
Hugs, hugs, hugs!
Missy
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 11:48 am
Weet niet meer op welke manier ik bewondering voor dit experiment kan uitdrukken! Snap ook niet hoe je dit kunt! Hoop dat de kick van die aard is dat je er de rest van je leven elke dag gelukkig door bent! En dat moet bijna wel: zo'n inspanning, en zo straf volgehouden! Geniet, geniet en geniet! Wij willen de verhalen horen eerstdaags! en als er in Schiphol een probleem is, of in antwerpen of waar ook: call me, as said before!
liefs Marianne, en natuurlijk Jana, Luc en Leander!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 10:23 am
hallo Kobi, je bent echt wel niet te doen meid. Een dikke bravo en proficiat. YOU DID IT! superwoman, maar ja dat wisten we al he. Ik hoop dat je er echt van genoten hebt. Leuke vakantie nu! en see you sooner or later, keep in touch! Sibille
Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 08:28 am
Marie: Yes, HARRO! good to hear you are okay, doing so well my moepie poeps! i miss you so much. I hope the last 10 km is amazing :) and take some pictures of the last few km's. You are nearly home so keep on pushing yourself! Can't wait till you are home and i see you after ceran! I miss you alot and I love you. Thinking about you alot. Even this morning when Me and Hannah went for a run i was thinking of you. wonderrrmoooepie! Kisses and hugs, Marie xxxx
Hannah: Just looked at some awesome photos of our super mum :) You are doing so well, and it's nice to hear you're still amazing after the big one! As marie said we did a run and we couldn't stop thinking how small and pathetic our tiredness was compared to what you are doing haha. My hair is growing, so you'll see it when its already longer than before. Love you lots and see you soon!!! Well done mum, kisses Hannah
Joost: You guys are crazy heroes. WELL DONE! and get your arse home now :) kisses
29 June 2011 05:42 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi everyone,
I cannot read your comments on my blog at the moment. So I will send my blog, and read your comments the day after tomorrow (Tomorrow I will not be on the computer, as we are doing the Long March (81 km), as they call it! So I only will come back to camp the day after.
Today started gorgeous, exactly what I expected from this race. Sand dunes, real desert, 45 degrees, beautiful setting for the first 10 km. Really not a nice track, so I am a little disappointed! A lot of people are and the real competitors don;t understand why this day was so difficult and tomorrow is the long March. Quite some complaints.
I cannot say very much, only that I am exhausted and that I want to hit the bed as soon as possible, to be a bit fresh for tomorrow.
All is well with me.
Big kisses for the misses and my hubbie, big hugs for all my friends.
Bye
I cannot read your comments on my blog at the moment. So I will send my blog, and read your comments the day after tomorrow (Tomorrow I will not be on the computer, as we are doing the Long March (81 km), as they call it! So I only will come back to camp the day after.
Today started gorgeous, exactly what I expected from this race. Sand dunes, real desert, 45 degrees, beautiful setting for the first 10 km. Really not a nice track, so I am a little disappointed! A lot of people are and the real competitors don;t understand why this day was so difficult and tomorrow is the long March. Quite some complaints.
I cannot say very much, only that I am exhausted and that I want to hit the bed as soon as possible, to be a bit fresh for tomorrow.
All is well with me.
Big kisses for the misses and my hubbie, big hugs for all my friends.
Bye
Comments: Total (16) comments
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 03:47 pm
Hey mammie, you're nearly done!! Waiting on your next update. Already visited both grandma's, greta and having bbq with anne and lieven tonight. Can't wait till you're here but enjoy your last days over there :) kisses and lots of love,
Hannah
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 02:19 pm
Hey Kobi, so you are nearly finished!!! Amazing and so good to read your blog can't wait to see the photos is your camera working ok?? How are your feet?? Pleased to hear you are brushing your teeth 2 x a day - hope it is with water?!
Good luck for the last stage and enjoy putting your feet up. I hope they have champagne waiting for you at the finish line?! lots of love Sandra xxx
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 01:07 pm
Hi Kobi,
really interesting to follow your blog.
Keep it up and looking forward to see the pictures.
cheers
Paul
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 05:56 am
Just seen you've completed stage 5 - fantastic! Hope feet are ok & you're getting plenty of rest. Only 1 more stage to go - keep it up - you are amazing!
Een dikke kus van ons drietjes - An, Boyd & Tomas xxx
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 04:12 am
Dag Miepje, hope the long one went well!!! All ok in Belgium. Stuffed the fridge and wine cellar for you already!!! Big kisses!
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 03:28 am
Hi Kobi - You're doing great! Keep up the awesome performance... Thinking of you all along! Take good care - tons of best wishes! Vera
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 08:46 pm
Keep the spirit! Enjoy the dunes, we are jealous!
Sabrina and Clement
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 08:18 pm
Wow, what a stories Kobi! Sounds like the most difficult stage right now. Keep on going! Thinking of you. greetz, Ellien
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 04:36 pm
Hi Kobi, awesome performance up to now, you are really great. Send you lots of positive energy for the challenges to come, Rainer
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 01:22 pm
Thinking of you and sending lots of positive vibes! You are awesome :) Sandyx
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 10:03 am
Heyy!!! we arrived in belgium! i love you i bet you are doing great. getting food now! :) hope today went well. get alot of rest and we can't stop thinking about you!
WE MISS YOU
Marie Hannah Joost.
xxxxxxxxxx
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 08:24 am
You sound in great spirirts compared to others I know doing the race. I know what a determined person you are!!!! Keep it up and following you all the way Best Alan
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 05:58 am
LIeve zus, take care and enjoy!
Hou je spieren, je kuiten, je tenen, je benen, je blaren onder controle!
Hoop dat je er tot het einde toe écht van kunt blijven genieten!
Het moet een buitengewone kick geven!
heel veel liefs van de Antwerpse supporters!
Marianne
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 04:01 am
Hi Kobi - you will be stuck into the long day - less than a TW so I'm sure you will take it all in your stride. It is tough - but you are tougher. Following you every step - great work! Jo
Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 12:12 am
Hi Kobi. You sound very much in high spirits, a very good sign. Wishing you all the best for the Long March. I'm sure you have a lot more to say, so we'll catch-up when you get back.XOX
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:25 pm
Hi Kobi - you guys are doing fantastic - the long day will be done when you read this and I hope it goes well for all of you. Stage 4 sounded a real tough day - but it always gets better!! Hope you are finding some time to enjoy the scenery and experience as well. Look forward to hearing all about it over a coffee when you're back! Rob
28 June 2011 04:37 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hey everyone,
Thanks for all the messages! I think I am the one using the computer most, so people really don’t look nice to me anymore!! Just kidding.We finished stage 3, and it is hot now, I guess 35 degrees. Quite a difference with yesterday. I was cold in my sleeping bag last night. We did 8 hours and 10 min. for this 44 km stage. Not bad. We are quite exhausted. The feet are keeping quite well. We were clever and changed shoes after having gone through the rivercrossings. Then 10 Km in a riverbedding. Waw, they are so wide! Must be interesting to see them in wintertime. Out of the river up a vehicle track for another 10 km and then down that same track up to the end. Tonight we sleep in a village and take actually the village over from the people living here. We are in a living room of someone. Very basic, as some of you know. We have to wake up tomorrow morning at 2 am in order to go off at 4. We are “bussed” for three hours to the starting point of the next stage. Don’t look forward to that . We will be finished by the time we have to start hiking. And it’s another 41 km.Today we only hiked, not a lot of running involved. The backpacks are still killing us. And the food is not attractive at all anymore.Have to go now to recover and put my feet up. The landscape was so beautiful but I like nice smaller trails instead of the vehicle track we were following.Talk to you tomorrow. By the way, Joost, I don’t know when they post these blogs. They gather everything and when they have satellite connection, they send it to someone in Racing The Planet who is then sending them out individually. Big kisses. Miss you loads
Thanks for all the messages! I think I am the one using the computer most, so people really don’t look nice to me anymore!! Just kidding.We finished stage 3, and it is hot now, I guess 35 degrees. Quite a difference with yesterday. I was cold in my sleeping bag last night. We did 8 hours and 10 min. for this 44 km stage. Not bad. We are quite exhausted. The feet are keeping quite well. We were clever and changed shoes after having gone through the rivercrossings. Then 10 Km in a riverbedding. Waw, they are so wide! Must be interesting to see them in wintertime. Out of the river up a vehicle track for another 10 km and then down that same track up to the end. Tonight we sleep in a village and take actually the village over from the people living here. We are in a living room of someone. Very basic, as some of you know. We have to wake up tomorrow morning at 2 am in order to go off at 4. We are “bussed” for three hours to the starting point of the next stage. Don’t look forward to that . We will be finished by the time we have to start hiking. And it’s another 41 km.Today we only hiked, not a lot of running involved. The backpacks are still killing us. And the food is not attractive at all anymore.Have to go now to recover and put my feet up. The landscape was so beautiful but I like nice smaller trails instead of the vehicle track we were following.Talk to you tomorrow. By the way, Joost, I don’t know when they post these blogs. They gather everything and when they have satellite connection, they send it to someone in Racing The Planet who is then sending them out individually. Big kisses. Miss you loads
Comments: Total (15) comments
Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 01:50 am
Hi Kobi,
following you every day and each stage. You're amazing! the way you write and describe the paths sounds so easy and wonderful. You have a great spirit. Keep it up.
xo Xenia
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 03:49 pm
Hi Kobi,
Saw a fantastic photo of you! So glad that all is going well, hope you have a good sleep tonight and enjoy the day!
Joanne
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 02:11 pm
Lieve Kobi,
Hou vol! 't Is super wat jullie doen! Denk veel aan je vanuit het vandaag zo natte Hong Kong. Hopelijk maak je wat foto's die we in september kunnen bekijken.
Slaap nog wat in die bus...
Keep going, liefs,
Alida
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:19 pm
Toch ietske zwaarder dan de canotocht en het wandelingske in de dordogne met daarna een lekker stukje fojedoje...groetjes en veel respect!!!hou vol,en debloning is alvast de prachtige natuur
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:08 pm
Yesterday you were 60th on the ranking!!!!!!!!! AMAZING!!!!! They forgot to put Gabi on the ranking for the stage 3. which was odd but then we went on her blog and she said she completed it.
anyways! just wanted to update you from the technological point of the race ;)
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:05 pm
i have no idea how you are doing this race right now. i told another one of my friends today and they said you were crazy! we just finished getting everything ready and are leaving in just under an hour to belgium! Ik hou van jou moepie en ik mis je heeeeellll erg! Maar zelfs als het moeilijke dagen zijn moet je maar denken aan ons en wij denken de hele tijd aan jou! ik kan niet wachten tot dat ik je weer zie in BELGIE! i love you so much! annnnnnnnddddd in belgium we will eat the yummiest fatty food evverrr! you will be in love :D :D
LOVE YOU MOEPSIE. <3 <3 <3 (hearts by the way)
Marieeetjeee.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:03 pm
Hey my lovely mother :) We are just getting the last of our stuff together for our flight tonight. You are going so well! Keep going because you are a beast haha :) I love you tonnes and don't worry about the bad food, its only for a bit more and then you come to Belgium where everything is delicious. lots and lots of kisses, Hannah
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:45 am
Hey Kobi, Tried to post yesterday but you guys must have been out of satellite range! Managed to check out some pics and video of you with Erin filming! You look great..Such an awesome effort! We are so proud of you! Enjoy the locals and the spectacular scenery! Hope the feet stay light underneath you and the spirit remains high! Sandyx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 10:44 am
Beste tante,
ge zijt goe bezig daar in de woestijn!
't Is te hopen da je nog iets anders dan zand te eten krijgt!!
Zet ze op. Tot weldra in Belgium
groetjes van uw neef Arne
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 08:25 am
Hi Kobi, great to see/hear that you're still going strong. Don't understand why you're not enjoying your de/rehydrated food. You have such a gourmet selection with you. Stay well. Am thinking of you from a strangely sunny England! J x
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 06:30 am
Hi Kobi,
are you also the one who get's the most comments?Just kidding. Yes you were out for 2 days or so.it's so great to read what happen and to see photos and videos.I really envy you. You will talk about the trip all your life.what a exciting great experience -gives me the feeling I have to find a nice race somewhere too...take care and keep walking.say hello to the girls. big hug -J.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 03:09 am
Its great that you are able to give details of your experience. Good for future participants. Your timing is looking good and a sign that you are strong - you've kept the pace or rather have picked it up. Keep it up girl. We're behind you and cheering you on.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 02:24 am
Hi Kobi - great to get update from day 2 and 3 - quite frustrating that you are out of touch - but probably worst for you not to be getting messages. Sounds like all is going well - hopefully you will get away from wide tracks soon. Hope the 2am wake up not too bad! You are doing great! Keep safe. Jo
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:10 am
Dag poepie, good to read all is well! Smart to have changed shoes! Enjoy the skies! Better food in the Queyras than there! Rains and thunderstorms in HK, getting packed now. lurv ya! Stay together!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 10:19 pm
Hi G(K)obi girl!
Finally got my internet working here in DK! Started to get desperate as I wanted to follow you guys and reading your "painful smiles"! Ha ha
#79&80 after stage 2 - WELL DONE! Keep up the good work and remember to enjoy the beautiful scenery!
Give all the other DB'ers a Hi 5. Sleep well as tomorrow is yet a stunning day....starting with a fantastic breakfast...NOT!
PS. last year they served bacon and egg for breakfast at the village....is it the same this year???? ha ha
Cheers and have a fun in the "sandbox" :)
Lars & Jeanette
27 June 2011 03:17 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi all,
We are in a region where we cannot receive our comments on the blogs. We only can write a blog and hope it will be send by tomorrow??!! No satelites to be found here. That’s how remote we are!
Yesterday afternoon 34degrees, this morning 13 degrees. FREEZNG cold!! It started raining, awful. The start time kept being delayed until 12, and the course was altered. Only 21 KM instead of the original 41 km. Everybody seemed to be relieved, because the rain kept pouring down. We had an easier, but not so interesting course, more like something for real runners. So we could do some time. We did 2 hours 40, so were very pleased and went straight into the sleeping bag in the tents. It is now 7;20 pm, the sun is finally coming out. We don’t know if the organization will add the 20 missed kms to another stage. We think it should be done, but don’t know if logistically it can be. Gabi is quite suffering from the altitude, but I am sure she will be fine as of tomorrow.
We are drying our shoes near to the campfire. It is so much nicer now the sun has come out. Wendy got a blister, but the medical staff have taken care of it.I am fine at the moment. Feel quite good. And Joost, you should come over here. It’s a bit like the Queyras. Beautiful mountains, saw today a flock of sheep, but they looked very malnourished. Apart from that, vast land, plains, some little settlements of a few houses, riverbeds, and mountains. The day before yesterday, the sky in the night was full of stars.
Haven’t seen so many stars in my life! No pollution over here!Have to get going.People are queuing up for the Cybertent.
Now we are cold, and I am sure tomorrow probably, we will be praying for this weather. Who knows!
And Marie, just to let you know, I do have a toothbrush and brush my teeth twice a day!!!
Miss you so much! Big kisses, I kiss my bracelet!
Hugs for all my friends.
Hopefully will be able to read your comments tomorrow and come back to you! Bye for now.
We are in a region where we cannot receive our comments on the blogs. We only can write a blog and hope it will be send by tomorrow??!! No satelites to be found here. That’s how remote we are!
Yesterday afternoon 34degrees, this morning 13 degrees. FREEZNG cold!! It started raining, awful. The start time kept being delayed until 12, and the course was altered. Only 21 KM instead of the original 41 km. Everybody seemed to be relieved, because the rain kept pouring down. We had an easier, but not so interesting course, more like something for real runners. So we could do some time. We did 2 hours 40, so were very pleased and went straight into the sleeping bag in the tents. It is now 7;20 pm, the sun is finally coming out. We don’t know if the organization will add the 20 missed kms to another stage. We think it should be done, but don’t know if logistically it can be. Gabi is quite suffering from the altitude, but I am sure she will be fine as of tomorrow.
We are drying our shoes near to the campfire. It is so much nicer now the sun has come out. Wendy got a blister, but the medical staff have taken care of it.I am fine at the moment. Feel quite good. And Joost, you should come over here. It’s a bit like the Queyras. Beautiful mountains, saw today a flock of sheep, but they looked very malnourished. Apart from that, vast land, plains, some little settlements of a few houses, riverbeds, and mountains. The day before yesterday, the sky in the night was full of stars.
Haven’t seen so many stars in my life! No pollution over here!Have to get going.People are queuing up for the Cybertent.
Now we are cold, and I am sure tomorrow probably, we will be praying for this weather. Who knows!
And Marie, just to let you know, I do have a toothbrush and brush my teeth twice a day!!!
Miss you so much! Big kisses, I kiss my bracelet!
Hugs for all my friends.
Hopefully will be able to read your comments tomorrow and come back to you! Bye for now.
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 02:58 am
Hi Kobi. The short day will give you a chance to recharge. Hope Gabi will feel better tomorrow. We're all behind you with well wishes and prayers.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 03:58 pm
Lieve Kobi, het klinkt allemaal erg boeiend, spannend, uniek.
Nee, ik zou het niet kunnen, en ja, ik zou het willen!
Geniet er dus erg van en vertel ons de ups and the downs van de onderneming uitgebreid bij de barbecue die Joost je verschuldigd is. Wij brengen wel de sprankels mee om de spraakwatervallen een kans te geven.
Hou de sterren in het oog: die wijzen toch altijd de weg, niet? En er zitten er een paar heel bijzondere tussen!
liefs,
Marianne en de rest van de Antwerpse supporters!
26 June 2011 08:02 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi everyone,
Thanks so much for all the good wishes! Really nice to sit here and read how many people are following me! Thanks. The mountains are gorgeous!!! Really fantastic! The course was way more difficult than expected! Only 34,6 km but hilly, wow! A big surprise. We made it today with the team. Gabi was quite concerned about her weight in the backpack, Wendy had to stretch often because of cramps, but she will take more saltttablets tomorrow. I thought I was getting a little blister but came in in time to have it rested. I am feeling ok. Recoer quite well. Now just rest and enjoy the mountains and that wonderful freeze dried food! It is ok, but I do love Joost;s kitchen much better! Go now to go down and rest with legs up. Talk to you tomorrow. Sounds very challenging again! With river crossings and I don;t know what!
kisses and hugs.
Thanks so much for all the good wishes! Really nice to sit here and read how many people are following me! Thanks. The mountains are gorgeous!!! Really fantastic! The course was way more difficult than expected! Only 34,6 km but hilly, wow! A big surprise. We made it today with the team. Gabi was quite concerned about her weight in the backpack, Wendy had to stretch often because of cramps, but she will take more saltttablets tomorrow. I thought I was getting a little blister but came in in time to have it rested. I am feeling ok. Recoer quite well. Now just rest and enjoy the mountains and that wonderful freeze dried food! It is ok, but I do love Joost;s kitchen much better! Go now to go down and rest with legs up. Talk to you tomorrow. Sounds very challenging again! With river crossings and I don;t know what!
kisses and hugs.
Comments: Total (25) comments
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:43 pm
we are waiting for that satellite to fly over again.... or for RTP to get its hands on... hope stage 2 (cold, we saw) and 3 (scorching) were well digested!!! Some awesome pics of amazing chicks! You three are all over the net!! Say high to the Uighurs for us! kisses!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:19 pm
Hou vol kobi, jullie kunnen het. Hopelijk ben je in staat een klein beetje te slapen in de tenten. Ben beniewd naar je volgende up-date.
Veel groetjes ook voor Gabi,
Hou je taai,
Koos en Alida
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:12 pm
Kobi,
You are amazing! Keep going strong in your quest to conquer the Gobi! Then come back to us. We miss you in seat 1 ;o)
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 07:44 pm
Prima Kobi, doe zo voort
De champagne staat klaar in Dilbeek
Groetjes
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:50 pm
I do not see much pain. Everybody smiles. It looks like picnic in the park! Go, go, go! We are proud! Pietro P.S. will you come back to beachvolley after The Gobi? we miss you.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:38 pm
MUM!! you have so many comments :) it's amazing to see how many people are supporting you. i'm at olivia's birthday party right now. everyone knows about you and thinks you are half crazy, half amazing!!! I love you tonnes :)
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:23 pm
are you having fun?? Perhaps our Friday walks will seem very easy after this?!?!
You are amazing I know you will finish no problem!
Lots of love Sandra xxxxxx
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 02:33 pm
Great to hear news from your first day. It's so exciting....enjoy everybit and fullfill your dream Kobi.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 02:25 pm
Dag Kobi,
mijn sportiefste schoonzus! Super wat je daar doet, proficiat. Pieter-Jan zou hier ook van hebben staan kijken. Vele groetjes uit West-Vlaanderen.
Greta, Arne, Emiel en Liselore.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 02:22 pm
Kobi & team! Komaan!!
Goed bezig zou ik zo zeggen.
Maak er mooie dagen van en we vinden dit ijzersterk!!!!!
Go go go
Carolien
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:52 pm
HEYYY MOEPIE!!!
i love you. can't believe you have already finished the first stage. keep on going. James and rory and flora are over right now, they say good luck and have a good time!
Just enjoy the mountains and the rest you are getting and offcourse the food. You will get plenty of dads food in belgium!!! I AM EXCITED. i can't wait to see you. i love you loads xxxxxxxx
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:42 pm
Moepje, schrijf eens de tijd op wanneer je update! Ik heb de indruk dat er een groot tijdsverschil zit tussen posting en wanneer zichtbaar is voor ons!! btw, all smooth on the homefront! Smoochie kisses!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:25 pm
What a fantastic start! Hope all your hard work back here will pull you through. Thinking of you every day!! Kim x
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:35 am
Hi Kobi,
told you it will be amazing. say hello to the others and enjoy your adventure. I wish I were there (but I would starving with that little bit food),
have a good bath tomorrow in the river....take care -love J
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:10 am
Hi Kobi
I met Joost this morning on the bus and found out you are in Gobi. What an amazing place to be. Joost is so proud of you and gave me this blog. Enjoy rest of days there. See you after summer holiday. I bet you miss the paddling more than ever.
Xiao Bing
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 10:06 am
dear sister,
everything still ok? Ik denk eigenlijk voortdurend aan je en heb oma beloofd via deze weg ook van haar àlle steun, courage en uithouding toe te wensen!
Smelt of bevries daar niet, hou je op de juiste temperatuur!
heel veel liefs,
Marianne
and the rest of the family!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 09:11 am
We're getting the news updates of all the stuff you guys are up against and we're praying for you. I went through the first of the photos in the gallery and the 3 of you have 2 fantastic photos. Your looking good and strong. One of them was titled girl power. We're behind you all the way. Take care.
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 07:08 am
Wow what a challenge! First stage over - well done! Hope you stay blister free!
An, Boyd & Tomas xxx
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 06:11 am
Well done Kobi, kop op nog maar een paar kilometer!!
grt Bernhard
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 04:27 am
YOU ROCK! Good luck - but you wont need it. You are the FAMOUS BELGIAN ATHLETE, AFTER ALL!!!!
Sending lots of love your way....
Laura
xxx
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:38 am
Kobi, you sound like you are enjoying it - which is great. you will be half way through stage 2 by now - hope there aren't too many water crossings as wet feet definitely don't help the blisters. Keep it up - wish I was there!
Jo
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 10:59 pm
First stage gone, only 5 to go! Biggest hurdle: 2nd stage, take it from a professional support team member..! Later on : just cruising to the end. Have fun!!!! Lurv ya!
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 10:33 pm
Hurray- Stage 1! Glad you do not have a blister. Rest up and know any challenge you face you will end up on top!
Sending you warm hugs!
Missy
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 03:59 pm
De weliswaar van jaloersheid smeltende en de zich in zijn frustraties bevestigd ziende, maar zich toch enigszins vragen stellende bij de geestelijke paraatheid van een vijftigjarige die 250 km in de woestijn gaat lopen in omzeggens een weekendje tijd - die immer elegante kaal en grijs wordende schoonbroer van je groet je hartelijk en wenst je alle succes toe. Tot spoedig. Luc C.
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 03:58 pm
Lieve Zus!!
schone foto, en ik hoop dat je je even goed voelt als je er op de foto uitziet!
Eet genoeg van dat droge gore voedsel, en verlang naar de barbecues van Joost: we jzullen je met plezier vergezellen dan!
Verzorg de blaren, masseer de spieren, en zorg voor elkaar op eenzame, moeilijke momenten: ik vind het ongelooflijk. Letterlijk. Ongelooflijk: 250 km in die omstandigheden! Keep on smiling, en ik hoop dat dat lukt. De hele tijd!
liefs van de Antwerpse Supporters!
Jana Leander Luc en Marianne
xxxxx
25 June 2011 08:49 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi everyone,
Have safely arrived after HOURS somewhere in Tianshan. Flight was very long, and a busride for 3 hours. It is very beautiful here. Snow on the mountaintops! Tents are quite big. We are only 7 in the tent. Wendy, Gabi and me have decided to be a team now. We will stay together. Still have to find a name for our team. We have to learn how to pack our bags, when to eat, how much to eat… all new to us.
The weather is gorgeous. Can’t imagine it being cold in the night! Campfire is on, people are socializing. We are in a tent with Columbian people, a Mexican champion and the three of us. We miss Mallette dearly. Poor her. Really feel for her.
I think it is going to be great. Of course at the moment no injuries yet! My backpack is quite heavy, 10,5 kg. But can’t throw anything away. I really will be hungry and can’t go only with the gels,…
Tomorrow 34 something km with the heavy pack. Also climbing quite a bit. Will see how that goes. It is very hot during the day but dry heat is much more agreeable to me than the humidity in Hongkong.
It will be probably my longest blog. The next days I might be not so mobile anymore, and more exhausted of course. We’ll see how I can manage..Kisses to all my beloved ones and big hugs.
Have safely arrived after HOURS somewhere in Tianshan. Flight was very long, and a busride for 3 hours. It is very beautiful here. Snow on the mountaintops! Tents are quite big. We are only 7 in the tent. Wendy, Gabi and me have decided to be a team now. We will stay together. Still have to find a name for our team. We have to learn how to pack our bags, when to eat, how much to eat… all new to us.
The weather is gorgeous. Can’t imagine it being cold in the night! Campfire is on, people are socializing. We are in a tent with Columbian people, a Mexican champion and the three of us. We miss Mallette dearly. Poor her. Really feel for her.
I think it is going to be great. Of course at the moment no injuries yet! My backpack is quite heavy, 10,5 kg. But can’t throw anything away. I really will be hungry and can’t go only with the gels,…
Tomorrow 34 something km with the heavy pack. Also climbing quite a bit. Will see how that goes. It is very hot during the day but dry heat is much more agreeable to me than the humidity in Hongkong.
It will be probably my longest blog. The next days I might be not so mobile anymore, and more exhausted of course. We’ll see how I can manage..Kisses to all my beloved ones and big hugs.
Comments: Total (8) comments
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 02:50 pm
Lieve Kobi & Gabi,
De 'citroendoekjes' liggen in onze keuken, de soep staat hier warm klaar...zet 'm op wij denken aan jullie!!! We zitten op het balkon met een glaasje wijn, is goed vol te houden. Heel veel liefs en nog veel meer succes
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:16 am
GO MUM!!! I know you will do great and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I hope you got the photo of my new haircut :) Can't wait to see you but have fun in the gobi for now. I love you tonnes!
Hannah
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:08 am
GO KOBI GOOOOOOO!!!!!!
It will be amazing!!!! Enjoy it and good luck!!
Kisses Maria Luisa
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 07:16 am
bewondering vervult ons als als we er maar eens aan denken wat jij daar uithaalt!!geniet met volle teugen( of zuchten ) van deze unieke wereldplaneetbelevenis,en heb alvast een lang verhaal voor ons mee...kusjes alom vanuit de planeet zwevegem...xxx anne
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 04:29 am
Hi Kobi! I'm very happy that the 3 of you have decided to team up. The 3 fiery moms. Am I right? I have'nt met Gabi. I assume she is a mom. I'm good here but ofcourse prefer to be there. Ahrg! I'll have my chance later. No worries. Most important is that the 3 of you have the time of your lives. Be healthy, be safe, eat with clean hands. I'm waiting impatiently here for your 1st day result. Take care. M
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 04:28 am
Marie and POEPJE:
Dag Moeps, start slowly! Finishing is better than winning. Take food in time, drink regularly, and 6 days no teeth brushing. I envy you!
Love you, Poepje.
Harro!!!!!!
I hope today starts off well. We are thinking of you. You are amazing! :)
I LOVE YOU LOADS! have a great race and keep updating your blog so we can comment.
xxxxxx
kisses and hugs from Papa, Marie en Hannah!
Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 03:30 am
As always, Kobi, you amaze and inspire me. I am thinking of you always and cannot wait to hear all about your journey.
Hugs, hugs, hugs,
Missy
Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 11:17 pm
Zag je op een paar foto's en je ziet er heel ontspannen uit.
Denk heel veel aan jou en we duimen!
All the best!!!!!
18 June 2011 10:50 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Almost there! Can't do anything about the training anymore. We have been tapering last week and coming week.
Gabi arrives on Wednesday and Friday we are of to Urumqi.
Just heard that it is already 43 degrees C in the Turpan Basin. Promising!!!
My ankle heals well but I can still feel it is not the same as my other one. Will have to live with it.
I bought a camera and have been trying it out. Every gram of the thing was important. Went for 145 gr including the battery and memory card.
When I see all the stuff lying on my stairs to be packed, I am wondering how it is going to fit in the backpack. I have to start packing to know how to pack best for the journey. Got my shoes with the velcro attached to it. Looks as if I am going to the moon with the gaiters on!
Next week, loads of rest and some small jogs to keep the legs flexible.
That's it for now.
Talk to you from the desert again!
Comments: Total (6) comments
Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 09:31 am
welll you asked me to update you and keep you company! :) you start tomorrrowwwww soooo scary. but you will be fine. just get alot of rest and continue eating the lovely freeze dried food. i love you lots, miss you already xxxxx
Posted On: 23 Jun 2011 08:48 am
Kobi, you will be awesome - have fun, take lots of pics (you won't regret the weight of the camera - well unless you drown it and then carry the dead weight of a broken camera for half the race!) take more pictures than you think as you still won't take enough. Can't want to hear your tales and stay safe - you will love it!!! Jo
Posted On: 21 Jun 2011 07:32 pm
dag Kobi,
een woestijntje als de Gobi gaan verkennen,vind ik eens een origineler manier om de zomer in te zetten dan pakweg een barbeque organiseren... succes ermee dear Kobi enjoy,of do not suffer to much...longing to see you and hear you over je wedervaren xxx xxx xxx anne en co
Posted On: 21 Jun 2011 04:33 am
All the best Kobi - make sure you go steady and enjoy it!! Look forward to hearing all about it and seeing the photo's on your return!
Rob
Posted On: 19 Jun 2011 01:29 pm
Good luck! Looking forward to see your pictures and to hear your stories....Keep walking and smiling...J.
Posted On: 19 Jun 2011 11:06 am
Wow, is het zover?! Als iemand de spirit heeft, ben jij het, Kobi!
Ik heb 23 tot 3 juli gemarkeerd in mijn agenda, zal elke dag aan je denken!
Dikke knuffel
Lut
05 June 2011 12:59 pm (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi,
My ankle is healing very well, but still some swelling and some pain after a training. We will have to see how it will behave in the race. I am still hiking and not jogging a lot, since I am afraid of spraining it again, clumsy as I am!
Wendy, Malette and me are going out an a regular base. It's fun to do this together. Poor Gabi, my companion to be in the Gobi, she has to do it all by herself!
We have been discussing how to pack, what to pack and how to make the backpack lighter. It's not an easy question.
You really start talking about a difference of 10 gr for some things!
I realized as well that in my training I take loads of drinking water with me as a weight, but as I am a big drinker (double as what normal people need!), I finish all that water, and what is left in my backpack by the end of the hike is a mere 3 kilo's. This is not going to be the case in the race, as I will shed only 600 gr of food per day! So the backpack will stay heavy. What a disappointment!
I want to take pictures in the Gobi and am still not sure which camera I should buy. Somebody any idea?
21 more days to go, I am getting scared, but also very excited. I want to see that piece of nature. It is going to be amazing. I hope I can enjoy it a bit.
Comments: Total (6) comments
Posted On: 18 Jun 2011 02:18 pm
Kobi!
I am soooo proud of you for doing this. You are are an inspiration to all of us. Cant wait to hear all about it. I know you will be GREAT!!!!!!
Sending you huge hugs across the miles!
Laura
xx
Posted On: 09 Jun 2011 08:25 am
with companions like us of course you will enjoy it.
Posted On: 07 Jun 2011 07:37 pm
We pray for rain(or snow) while hiking the trail in gobi,kobi. Kerrrekeweere
Voorts. Verlangen we naar begin juli om jou met al jouw verhalen weer te zien. Xxx xxx xxx xxx lieven anne
Posted On: 07 Jun 2011 07:20 pm
Hei kobi,in thh dordogni...we zijn hier met anne en lieven uw avonturen aan het bestuderen, betekent dit nu dat je 250km zal wandelen !?????dat zal dan wel een tijdje duren .
Wij bevindén ons hier op een ideaal trainingsparcours bij marc en claudine(anne is nu ah woord): regen,storm,onweer,en marc heeft gelikkig en nieuwe kachel die werkt...!!! .je zou hier Werlelijk al je duivels kunnen. Ontbinden,kobi, ALTRAINEND. !!! Het eten blijft hier super: morgen kreeft En verder zijn we net begonnen met onze noveen om voor jou een succesvolle tocht te verzekeren... !!!xxx anne
Posted On: 07 Jun 2011 09:42 am
Ha, Kobi in the Gobi!
Good luck with the preparations the coming weeks,...& stay cool!!!!
Groetjes
Carolien & Yves
Posted On: 06 Jun 2011 10:10 am
I'm doing the 2012 Gobi and have been following all the blogs trying to learn anything possible. This is the camera I am considering. Good luck.
http://www.adorama.com/ICASD1400SV.html?utm_term=Other&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=Other&utm_source=rflAID021866
28 April 2011 07:04 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi,
Just at the moment that my training went really well, I managed to sprain my ankle three times!!!
Bad luck, I thought. Did the whole RICE thing and thought it was going to get better, but after four days I am still in pain. Went to the doctor. I didn't fracture the ankle, he said (I didn't think about that!), but it could take 12 weeks to have it fully recovered. WHAT???? I couldn't believe my ears. So physio, physio and again physio and we'll see how the Gobi will go.
No running training anymore for me. I am totally depressed.
Will have to do with hiking. So, yes indeed, I will take a camera and make pictures of all those running people and enjoy the scenery, rather than running my heart out of my body and suffer even more.
Too bad, but at least I think I still can join!
Comments: Total (5) comments
Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 01:39 pm
moeps, schrijf ook eens de tijd op wanneer je blog post; er zit een groot tijdsverschil op, lijkt me. btw, all smooth on the homefront! Smoochie kisses!!
Posted On: 18 May 2011 02:29 pm
Enkel verzwikt ???of kversta dat niet...we hopen dat het je nog lukt !!!
Posted On: 03 May 2011 03:21 am
Determination that YOU have, will definitely make your ancle get better sooner that 12 weeks, I can sign that!!! Proud of you and impressed with you. With love, Mimi
Posted On: 30 Apr 2011 12:50 am
Kobi - definitely take it easy next 2 weeks - swim and stationary bike (seated) if you can - then re-asses. Give me a call later, can meet for a coffee.\\Rob
Posted On: 29 Apr 2011 11:47 am
hope you get better and faster than 12 weeks.
take care
10 April 2011 08:48 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Dear all,
Thanks so much for your comments.
I am training a lot, and now since the weather gets a bit more hot, I really start to feel what it will be like!!!
I am trying out all sorts of food during and after my trainings. Some work well, some are just disgusting. You should see my cupboards : all with open packages of stuff I tried.
I love my compression pants, just for recovery afterwards. And I found out that toe-socks don't work for me.
I have talked to quite some people who have done the Gobi, just to get more and better information. It is very useful.
I will do my first back to back in the Easter holidays, just to try it out.
Comments: Total (1) comments
Posted On: 29 Apr 2011 01:53 am
Hey mum,
You're crazy! Even after a long day of training you do a casual 10km "cool down\" run. no biggie.
That's insane! BUT I LOVE YOU. goodluck mammy, eventhough you are right infront of me ;)
<3
04 March 2011 08:16 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
I have decided to ask for my birthday present a registration to the Gobimarch! Was that a clever idea?
I am called a nutcase, by my friends. They say that normal people ask for a SPA treatment or a stay in one of the 5-star hotels,... you don't ask for suffering in a desert!
Anyway, it's something I want to try out and I definitely want to see the beauty of a desert (will have 7 days to do that!)
Comments: Total (7) comments
Posted On: 31 Mar 2011 04:36 am
Bravo Kobi. This is pure inspiration. I might start thinking about doing it for my 50th! you show us the way!
good luck and a lot of fun.
Posted On: 27 Mar 2011 05:15 pm
Kobi ,
Ik dacht dat roeien jouw passie is , roeien in de woestijn dat is nog eens
verfrissende gedachte .
Wens je heel veel succes met je voettocht ,je ziet er reeds behoorlijk afgetraind uit , de tocht zal wel vlot verlopen .
Wij duimen, vele groeten
Jan lieve cyril arthur
Posted On: 27 Mar 2011 08:33 am
proud we are PROUD .we love Kobi en we braintrain with her to run,walk and strompel it succesfully xxx
anne en co
Posted On: 18 Mar 2011 01:20 pm
Hi Kobi, I think that's the best present ever -to do something what you always wanted to try. Well I have few more years time until my 50th...for now I will go out with you to do some more great hikes and training sessions which I always enjoy.
See you on the trails -Juliane
Posted On: 09 Mar 2011 11:25 pm
Hi Kobi, I did Sahara last year as my 50th bday present so I sure don't think its mad. The only probable was none of my friends and family wanted to come along only my husband. We had an incredible time and deserts are certainly beautiful I have so many gorgeous pictures I took along the way. See you in Gobi ...Happy training Sandy
Posted On: 05 Mar 2011 05:18 am
I thought I was the only mad woman in DB. As we get older we think to ourselves we just have'nt experienced enough in life. I think this is the way to go. Lets go for it Kobi.
Posted On: 05 Mar 2011 04:33 am
love you maammmmyyy :)
Comments: Total (4) comments
Posted On: 06 Jul 2011 03:54 pm
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Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 01:18 am
Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 12:57 am