Overnight camp site on top of Mt Tagytus 2300m at Agia Marina ( St Marina even here she is following me !!) -3C and raining. Started Stage 2 with heavy rain and cold. Uphill for 450m to the top of Mt Tagytus then downhill for 25km to Sparta. By the time I got to chpt 2 11.30am feeling good as we could get some running going rather than steep uphill, doing a good time and rain had cleared and needed a wardrobe change as it was close to 30C. 50m into the village, a group of old men and a priest were at the cafe and they noticed the Greek flag on my shoulder. They stoped me and invited me to sit with them. Of course I did. It was good to have a rest and talk to them. Then the owner came out with a large mixed fruit juice and gave it to me. I tried to pay him but he said it was on him and wished me good luck. It was the best juice I have ever had and got me through to the next 10km. Along a small river with good shade was good conditions until it opened up to olive and corn fields. Along the track, it was getting hot and my hydration was needed. Got to chp3 feeling good and making reasonable time. Left 3 and it was a tough uphill 9.5km climb to Selesia. Hot and uphill is not a great combo but the reward was getting in at 3.20 even though I had done 6 extra km than yesterday. Top it off, the villagers offered all of us watermelon. I’m going up for 3rds. Hopefully pull up ok tomorrow and get to end. After that, just on halfway. Thanks for all the messages. I have read them all, and they are something I really look forward to when I get to camp. Really miss everyone and will have a few stories to tell when get home. Love to all. John

Hi Everyone

Campsite in Kardamyli rain overnight, 8am start and tough uphill goat tracks and gorge crossings, Hit the mountains about 20km in and the fog was heavy. Felt good and finished at 3pm. Toughest stage done. Camp 2 is in the mountains. Expected temp 0C. Amazing running through the villages. Heard its a Storm v Broncos GF, Take care.

John