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Gobi March Blogs 2009

Andrew Swan

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Gobi March (2009) blog posts from Andrew Swan

19 June 2009 10:44 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Today, well yesterday now, was the long day. 80km in one hit.  Given that I had never run 40km up until about 3 weeks ago, 80km was impossible to get my head around.  There was little sleep given anxiety levels were at there maximum.  The day started with an hours bus ride from camp to the start line.  The pain in my feet beneath layers of tape was subsiding which gave me some confidence that I could perhaps get through it.  From the start, I felt reasonably strong relative to my own expectations and probably relative to the rest of the field.  By the first checkpoint, I was very surprised to find myself in the top 20 runners, and still feeling good.  I decided to mentally break the day down into 10km stages and think in terms of 1/8 full, 1/4 full, 3/8 full etc until I had passed the half way mark.  For the first time this week, I monitored my heart rate and decided not to let it move too much below or above a sustainable level.  With these two factors to focus on I was surprised to find that I was overtaking other racers.  This actually concerned me as I feared that I had gone out too hard.  I knew I had many motivating factors to compensate any mental roadblocks I would hit on the road, but concerned about the physical limitations of my body over a distance which was totally unfamiliar.  When I passed the 40km mark feeling good, I started to gain confidence that my body and my feet would go the distance.  Running into the 50km mark in 11th place after a nice downhill section with reasonably flat surface I was all cheers.  Then out of leftfield I hit my first seemingly insurmountable wall.  It was a long 11km down a dry riverbed full of rocks, impossible to land any step with confidence that I wouldnt twist or snap an ankle.  I had one other competitor in eyesight in front and behind me.  When he took off, I started to really struggle.  Fortunately I dug into my bag and found a caramel sweet that Jills mum had sent me, which was a unbelievable blessing.  I continued to push on for what seemed an eternity until the next checkpoint.  The next 20km was a more even surface up to the campsite.  For most of this stage, my feet felt like large concrete blocks, not pain as such, but difficulty in lifting them for each step.  I was passed my another runner coming into the final checkpoint who flew by me.  I had nothing left for the last 6.5km with no-one and nothing still on the horizon.  Coming into the finish line, I saw Jill banging the finish line drum which lifted my spirits for the final run in.  It was all a bit emotional after completing the day, seeing Jill and thinking about all she had been through. I have no doubt a healthy Jill could have won the womens event this week.  It was just bad luck for her. I finished in 10hours 39mins and in 13th place, which was way above my expectations.  In my darkest hours during the day, I continued to focus back on why I was here.  Thats what got me through.  I dont think I could do this again, but very happy that Ive done it.  Thank you to every words of support, they helped immensely during the race, particularly yesterday.  And thanks to everyone who has donated to www.gobi4good.com,  the money is very well gifted.  Tomorrow is a short 9km run through the cityy of Kashgar.  Tomorrow is also the 2 year anniversary of the passing of Greg Collyers father to brain cancer.  We will be toasting a beer to him and everyone else and their families afftected by brain cancer after the race and 250km on foot.  Jesse, Ben and Cooper, cant wait to see you first thing Monday morning.  Everyone else in HK, dont forget our G-Party on June 27.

Comments: Total (5) comments

Posted On: 22 Jun 2009 09:45 am

well done Andrew, Have only just got to the screen to read the wonderful piece of writing about your finale to an amazing week of running, coming in 13th. We will remember your determination and commitment with extreme pride. Enjoy the party. Love Dianne & Sean

Posted On: 21 Jun 2009 02:11 pm

Congratulations Andrew! You did extremely well. Zac

Posted On: 20 Jun 2009 07:38 am

Swanny, that blog was everything Ross said it was and more. your testamonies this week...your dedication to this race...and your dedication to your team and your Jill have been everything I know you are all about and bring me so much joy when I see them happening. Would have loved to be there doing with you guys first hand. Intensely, immensely proud of each and every one of you. Lovexxx, Jen

Posted On: 20 Jun 2009 05:46 am

swan dog! 80kms in a day and 13th - awesome achievement - even more so given what you've already done. keep focussed on the finish and try to enjoy it. see you next week.

Posted On: 20 Jun 2009 01:50 am

great articles andrew hopefully i would have met you by the time you read this as i am here to see my wife liz luya finish. ross

17 June 2009 08:52 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Today was a  very difficult day in many ways, but none more difficult than the moment when Jills health finally got the better of her.  Unfortunately, Jill was forced to withdraw about 1km short of checkpoint 3 on day 4, close to 150km into the race.  She was at her limit at around the 20km mark today, but somehow managed to almost make checkpoint 3.  The day started with absolutely freezing conditions.  Jill was probably the warmest in the tent last night - only because in addition to her thermals, skins and sleeping bag, she cleverly covered herself in her emergency blanket.  Stage 1 was basically straight up hill, climbing 900m in altitude to close to 3000m or 10,000 feet in around 3km distance.  Jills debilitated lungs were pushed to the limit along with signs of altitude sickness. On the descent her health improved through to checkpoint 1.  However, stage 2 after checkpoint 1 went straight up hill again and the nausea and headaches kicked in again.  Around 2km into stage 2 Jill was done.  We made the decision to push on to the next checkpoint rather than returning to the previous checkpoint.  Given the remotness and difficult terrain, we really had no choice but to push on.  Im not sure if we could have got as far as we did with her without the help of Toby, who helped me carry Jills bag and Mark for vital words of encouragement for the next couple of hours.  This 13km stage was nearly all with small rocks under foot following a dry river bed in brutal heat once again.  It was a very difficult moment when the 4WD arrived to scoop up Jill, but I know she made the right decision.  With 100km still to go including 80km in one day tomorrow, it just wasnt worth the risk.  I dont know anyone else who could have made it as far as Jill did in this race in her condition.  True guts and determination.  Jesse, Ben and Cooper, if you read this, Mummy is fine now, she did an amazing job and is an amazing person, as you know.  WIth Jill safely in the car, I decided to make a push on the final stage to test my fitness.  The final stage was long, but I felt good.  It seems that our slower than expected pace early this week due to Jills condition has left me with some reserves in the battery.  I will test that theory in tomorrows 80km leg.  My oonly concern is my feet which look a bit like mince meat wrapped in butchers paper.  Its amazing how right now I can barely walk, but after running for a while , the pain turns to more of a numbness.  Hopefully my feet will be numb for 80 more km.  We have a 2 hour bus ride at 645am before starting our long day.  If I can, will blog after tomorrows leg, which could take anywhwere from 15-20 hours depending on the terrain.  Thanks again for all the blogs and emails, they are very powerful in these conditions and environment.

Comments: Total (23) comments

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 02:32 pm

Hi guys. About to go to sleep and thought to check in one more time before you get that much closer to the finish line. I look forward to your last few blogs. Rest up and enjoy the last of this amazing effort. Goodnight. Bill

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 09:27 am

Me again! Waiting anxiously for your blog update and went onto the photos. Found one of a guy taping your back, drinking water at a checkpoint and then the most beautiful one of Jill greeting you at the finish line of the 80km stage!!! Very emotional - can't begin to imagine how you are feeling. Love you both xoxo

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 06:04 am

We are very proud of you both - and Jill; you are amazing! Bella can´t believe it is true! Best wishes for the last part from us in Scandinavia!! Gabi, Bella, Sebastian and Alex

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 05:20 am

You guys have raced this race in its true spirit. Striving to achieve your best possible, under unforeseen and spectacular conditions, and seems as though in some ways has tested limits and proven - to me anyway - from my airconditioned office ;) -how determined the human spirit can be. You are both amazing. So happy you are in good hands and on the road to recovery Jill, and Swannie - sounds like your ready to nail the final days. Thinking of you. Gen and Piers

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 04:51 am

well done mate!! now finnish it off!

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 02:26 am

Pissing with rain in Hong Kong and a very exciting thunderstorm this morning that had our labrador trying to climb into our bed. But the most exciting news was to read that you had not only finished the 80km leg but that you had romped home only an hour or two behind the leaders! Very sorry to hear that Jill retired, but what a extraordinary gutsy effort nevertheless. Altitude sickness is one of the worst feelings in the world. Enjoy the last couple of days. Roger and Michelle

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 02:10 am

You did it! 80km!! You are amazing! What an effort! Waiting on your daily blog to make sure you are holding up ok. Can't wait to hear from you. Ween xoxox

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 01:43 am

Swanny you are a freak what a huge effort in stage 5. It has been great following your progress over the stages and everyone in the dealing room knows now who Jill Wilson and Andrew Swan are and the effort they have put in for many worth causes. Hopefully you have reached all your goals you have certianly inspired alot of people including myself. I look forward to seeing the photo's except maybe the ones of your feet and Si getting your Croc from the pit. well done I'm sure your boys will be very proud of you both.stay safe Dave

Posted On: 19 Jun 2009 12:52 am

Hi Swanny, checking just to make sure my guys made it in safe and sound on the long stretch, and you not only made it, but smacked it hard. No blog posting from you last night, so hoping it didn't smack you back so badly that you can't trot right on through that last bit today and enjoy your post-Gobi celebrations this afternoon. Stay upright and smiling, as they reported you did yesterday and take tremendous pride in being where you are right now..all of you!

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 11:11 pm

swanny huge effort on stage 5 mate - we have all been monitoring progress here - cant see u on google earth though...yet! dont forget to take photos of the teams feet - we will frame them for the party next week. well done and prepare a 5min presentation for PRG next week.

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 11:50 am

Hello there Storm Troopers. Seems a lot like that when I read the daily blog and the description of the terrain, casualties, battle wounds, blood, guts and glory. 80 clicks no small distance. Wishing you all a safe passage. Well done Jill. You smashed it out of the ball park and did yourself proud.

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 09:59 am

GO TOBY AND TEAM! Family in Canberra are thinking of you all. Good luck on the next leg.

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 08:19 am

Hi Guys, Fantastic effort!!! Congratulations to Jill for being the toughest woman in the wolrd! I cant get my head of the pilow in the morning if i feel like shit. Forget the sore feet swany you only have one chance at this go fucken hard mate!!!! Go for it! The Noices. P.S Keza says she is think of you both.

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 08:17 am

Now I know what you have to go through when reading a broker's daily email. I must make ODD a lot less long! I am sure when you look back at it all, you will only remember the good bits but I have not quite fathomed from your comments so far, which of the experiences could be characterised as good! But seriously, hope you survived today, sorry to here about Jill yesterday and keep up the good work. If it is any consolation I am having daily physio after four days of staying at the Four Seasons on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. What you will need after all of this, I cannot imagine. See you both when you get back safely!

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 07:25 am

Good luck with the big push today Swanny. Love to Jill on a herculean effort to get so far

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 06:35 am

Go bro!! You are truly amazing! Feeling your emotions back here and Jills! Can't believe she made it so far given her illness. Right now you have just reached the checkpoint 18 and the breaking news report said you had " your poles in the air and a huge grin on your face"!! That's the best news I've read - very emotional - wish I could be there at the end to see you cross the finish line! Love to you both xoxo

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 02:26 am

Jill is an absolute legend ... not that I need tell you that. She is all heart and determination. Such an amazing effort to get as far as she did. Phenomenal. As for you mate, you are an extraordinary fella. Can't tell you how inspiring this all is ... go nail that 80K!

Posted On: 18 Jun 2009 02:14 am

Swannl, Well, today's the big day! Depending on when you get to read this, hope you make/made it through with your feet in tact. Best wishes to Jill for her effort, I trust her recovery will be very quick. I suppose you need to lighten the mood today. Dig deep and find the humour in the situation. There's gotta be something to have you laughing out loud like the hysterical hyena you can become!!! ( I'm trying to think of some endurance based gags to help you, but it kinda escapes me at the moment ). Maybe it's just the ridiculousness of the situation you're all in? Maybe you can chase down some fellow competitors today. 80kms gives you loads of time to catch some people! All the best from us - sending our thoughts and positive vibes and lung capacity and muscle fibres and all energy reserves for you today!!!

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 11:48 pm

Geez. Gripping reading, this blog. Extraordinary effort. All the best for the final assault. Please pass my regards to the Dunn, again fair time or a dude on a dicky knee.

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 11:40 pm

Swanny, you are the very king of men. Give her love for me. My heart, every bit of it, is there right now and aching with pain and pride over the difficulty of every step she has taken, incl. the step up into that SUV. I love you both. JJ

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 09:36 pm

Just thought I'd slip in another comment so that your blog scores highly in the comments dept.

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 09:33 pm

Jill has heaps to be proud of, a sensational exhibition of sheer guts and determination to get as far into the run as she did. Full marks to her and what an outstanding example of how much a person can achieve, despite the hurdles life throws up. Top stuff to you, Toby, Si and Dunny jnr. Really look forward to reading your blog, keep it coming if you've got any energy left. Best wishes to you all for the 80k walk in the park, desert whatever 2day...AND just make sure Jill is there to hand out the goodies at the end of the day...no cigars just yet though.

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 09:32 pm

Jill has heaps to be proud of, a sensational exhibition of sheer guts and determination to get as far into the run as she did. Full marks to her and what an outstanding example of how much a person can achieve, despite the hurdles life throws up. Top stuff to you, Toby, Si and Dunny jnr. Really look forward to reading your blog, Best wishes to you all for the 80k walk in the park, desert whatever 2day...AND just make sure Jill is there to hand out the goodies at the end of the day...no cigars just yet though.

16 June 2009 08:00 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

120km and 3 days down - 130km and 2 and a bit days to go.  Unfortunately my optimism towards Jill improvement in health yesterday proved premature.  Jill had virtually no sleep and by morning time she was convinced that her race was over after getting up with a very heavy chest once again.  A bit of breakfast and a prep talk from the medics was enough to get her in her gear just in time for the start.  With concerns over her health, today was going to be simply about finishing.  Despite several moments of uncertainty, including a close bout with altitude sickness, she made it to camp in good spirits.  Another amazing effort.  I was fortunate enough to have my best sleep and felt good all day, even above 2500m which was unexpected.  I certainly learnt a lot about "deserts" today.  They dont have to be sand - they can include water, mud and rock.  Todays stage took us through wheat fields with running water and ankle deep mud.  After about 20km, the course went uphill 18 relentless kms.  This phase took us from around 2000m altitude up to our next camp at 2900m.  Most of today was walking given Jills health.  I am not a good walker.  Every step for 18km was on small rocks jutting in every direction. As a result, my feet got completely shredded.  Evertything else - muscles, joints etc feel good,  which is giving my growing confidence that I can finish the whole 250km.  Hopefully Jill can rest tonight and improve by morning so we can cross the line together on Saturday morning.  Camp tonight is at 2900m - sleep will be interesting.  Tomorrow is another marathon including a steep ascent to Heavens gate to start.  Will need to save something in the tank for Fridays 80km.  Hello to my 3 wonderful boys.  Jesse, thanks for the offer of $5.50 towards charity including brain cancer research.  That was a wonderful message to receive.  Hopefully it wont take us "a million days", but sending you and the boys a huge hug for the words of encouragement.   FInally, a very heartfelt Happy Wedding Anniversary to Kate and Nathan Strickland.  I am sure you are celebrating in style given the year you have had. It is certainly worth celebrating.    until tomorrow...

Comments: Total (5) comments

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 04:59 am

You guys are going beautifully and quickly shortening in the betting to get all the way through. Keep up the great spirits. Can you give us an update on Dunny? How's his knee?

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 03:22 am

Great effort guys ... 3 days ago you hadn't run a marathon and by the end of today you will have nailed 4 in a row. An amazing effort under any circumstances ... but truly inspiring given the terrain and the challenges that each of you are facing. Such an amazing experience ... I really wish I was there walking by your sides ... but there in spirit every step of the way. Keep up the great work!

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 12:29 am

Dear Swanny, Ups and downs. What troopers you two are. Wading through the mud! Wish I could be there..just for that! Proud of you guys, every step you take, and every step you take is one step closer to your Saturday morning finish! Squeeze that ailing Jilly for me. Hope she woke up a bit better off today..I'll be checking the blog later. XXOO

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 10:30 pm

Well done guys. AGAIN! Not sure if Dunny's getting emails or not, but make sure you pat him on the back for me. All that on a dicky knee. Gutsy as. Incredibly proud of him. Don't know you from a bar of soap, Jill, but reckon its about the ballsiest effort I've ever heard of. Hang in there!

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 03:45 pm

Dear Swany and Jill, we are so proud of your efforts to date, and hope that you manage to get some sleep at such high altitude, and that Jill's health and Andrew's feet hold together. is the tubed condensed milk a success? i'm amazed at how beautiful the scenery is (we've had the u-tube on full screen on apple tv) - and how cheerful everyone is despite the hardship. We are gunning for you - what you are doing it totally amazing! You are an inspiration. You can do it!

15 June 2009 08:16 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

With Jillls health improving, we were able to shuffle along most of the course today.  Looks like Jills health should be back to good enough tomorrow.  Our shuffling paid off in the stifling heat (40deg!, about the same as yesterday).  Jill came in 2nd today in the womens division.  A staggering result given her health over the past week.  I felt much better on the course despite the heat and increased difficulty of the stage.  Its been really tough to stay hydrated in this heat which was my major concern.  The blisters have started to kick in, so Ive basically taped up my entire foot including each individual toe. I have blisters under blisters under callouses.   My back is bleeding through my bandaging due to the rubbing from the pack,, but not enough to slow us down hopefully. The first 500m was the only part of the 41km today that was in shade.   We finally caught Dunny today with about 10km to go - only because his knee blew up.  I still cant believe he finished the stage with a golfball sized swelling on the side of his knee.  An unbelievable performance.   The final 6km today was brutual - up and down through the sand hills.  The toughest part now is that although we are 80km through, we still have 170km to go.  Im finding it difficult to comprehend doing another 2 days of 40km, with even more elevation before embarking on an 80km day on Thursday, alll in 40deg temps.  Hopefully I can wake up tomorrow feeling as fresh as I did today.  A big thankyou to Simon for rescuing my flipflop from the "hole in the ground" this morning.  Ronaldo would have been proud of the accuracy of the shot as my flipflop flew 1.5m off my foot straight into the flthy pity without touching the sides.  All I can say is that he is a bigger man than me - I wasnt going anywhere near it.  Thanks again for all the great emails, please keep them coming.  Heres hoping for a good night sleep and a pain free wake up...more tomorrow night.

Comments: Total (12) comments

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 03:11 pm

Hi guys, phenomenal effort ... you are all an inspiration to us all. And Swannie you surely have a career awaiting you in race reporting ... putting these sensational pieces together amid migraines and intense pain. Great to see you all smiling and laughing in so many shots. 3 stages to go ... half way there ... keep the great work up!

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 12:33 pm

Hey Andrew & Jill, This is fantastic the photos are wonderful and just heard you Jill on youtube. Your looking great and full of that positive cheer you bring to everything. it is great to be able to follow the journey. well done. Dianne xx

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 12:23 pm

Hi Swanny and Jill, you guys are incredible. Now that Jill is on the mend we expect to see her leading after stage 3! Swanny take off the bandana in a photo so we can see your clean shaven melon. Hang in there guys and be thankful when you read this the race will be half complete.

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 12:12 pm

We're addicted! The photos are simply amazing and tell a story I just can't wait for you guys to elaborate on - with your feet up and drink in hand - that moment is getting closer guys - hang in there - you trained hard for this - you're both looking in great shape - Jill - AWSOME St.2 result !!! Sending you good vibes and can't wait to read tonight's update - love D&F

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 12:07 pm

Been following the journey can only imagine. Your descriptions are fantastic at the end of the day you still have the energy to go into such detail. great to hear Jill is in recovery and challenging herself. love to both Dianne & Sean xx

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 11:51 am

Swannl, Sometimes I think ya just gotta say "what the f*ck!". But then that's easy for me to say sitting back here (and no I'm not sipping a beer). Glad to hear Jill has got through her ailment. We're wishing you all an injury free event - at least no more injuries than those expected. Hope today went well. Hope your spirits are high. Hope your motivation and determination are boundless!

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 11:00 am

Been on the site on and off all day following the day!Loving the photos of you two! Great one of you bro with the headscarf and body taping!!! Hope you were sipping more than green tea! Waiting anxiously to see you have made it to the next camp and are in good health! Love to you both xoxox

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 10:41 am

Loving the regular photo updates. Swan Dog looking more like Anthony Keides from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers sporting that head scarf and ripped torso. Just need a few tats now. Maybe not a bad idea to really commemorate this adventure. The wheat fields look deceptive and welcoming and then I see the harsh terrain that fits more of the traditional image of a desert. You guys rock and make me proud. Half way there friends. Power on, front up and get the job done. Take care. Bill.

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 03:12 am

Great work again Swanny and Jill logging on every day to follow your progress and still amazed at all your efforts. I don't quiet follow your logic that you won't put your hand in a "filthy pit" to get your shoe out but are happy to run marathons in 40 degree heat. Maybe you just think of things a bit different to me. I'll donate more to bear cottage on Si's behalf given he had to go the extra mile and do the really tough stuff. Keep it up.

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 01:39 am

Swanny, we are following your journey closely here on the Citi dealing desk and are full of respect for all of you. We have changed from thinking you are all crazy to thinking you are all amazing. I was dismayed to read about Dunny's knee but not surprised that he punched through. Please let him know we are cheering for him, but also want him (and the rest of you) home in one piece.

Posted On: 16 Jun 2009 01:37 am

Hi Swanny and Jill (and all your crazy mates!), great effort guys... Keep plugging away - every step forward is one less to the finish line! You guys are doing a great job for fantastic causes and we are cheering you on from afar. Keep up the elastoplast on the feet/back and the smiles on your dials! We look forward to your next update once you've conquered stage 3!

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 11:51 pm

Hey Swannie, full credit to you and Jill for kicking on and for the rest of the team. Here's hoping for a better day for everyone on the course 2day. It's a big effort to do the run in the high temps. My heart sank when I read about Pete's knee for I know how determined his is to do the run. You wouldn't know he was suffering judging by the time he posted. Look forward to reading your blog tonite

14 June 2009 08:25 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Day 1 and 42km down!!  After arriving in the campsite late on Saturday night, I decided that my next migraine was way overdue.   I was completely oblivious to the natural beauty of the ampitheatre of towering mountains of sand that surrounded our campsite - all I wanted was a nurofen, cold towel and a dark room.  Unfortunately, there were no cold towels and no dark room, with the sun setting at 1030pm in the Gobi.  Race day - after 6 months of preparation, we made it to the start line with 30 sec to spare.  Dunny lived up to his nick name and was occupied when the gun fired.  The course started with a number of river crossings through a very steep canyon.  From about 5km in, it seemed that the next 37km was all up hill apart from an up and down section through more canyons with millions of smalll rocks underfoot and no shade. Unfortunately Jills run of bad luck with her health continued today.  After just kicking mycoplasma the week before the race, then relapsing with bronchitis several days before the race, Jill was hit with an upset stomach and cramping about 10km in.  I simply dont know how she got through the day in that heat in that condition with good spirits and determination in place.  We are hopeful that some medicine and a rest will put her in good shape for tomorrows 41km.  Todays course was rated as moderate - tomorrows is 50% moderate and 50% difficult with more hillls to ascend and descend.  The good news is our packs will be lighter.  Our feet are in good condition and little sign of my other great concerns for this race (touch wood).  Thanks for the emails - they are priceless after a day like today and with what lies ahead.  Dont think I can send individual emails, so Jesse, Cooper and Ben,  thanks for those wonderful emails, miss you boys and cant wait to see you next weekend.  Jesse, my FOCUS rock came in handy today and Im sure it will be a constant source of motivation for me going forward.  Love to all...

Comments: Total (10) comments

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 10:05 am

Hi again! Just saw the results of stage 2! Glad to know you are safe and in camp!!! Looking forward to hearing all about today! Awesome job! Go bro and sis-in-law

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 09:30 am

Oh, my Swanny and Jillster, you guys are amazing. Sounds like a tough go and you just kicked it hard right back and kept right on going. I looked at the finish first, saw those awesome times..side by side.. and then read the blog. With all you've been dealing with you guys are gorgeous! I love you both and when I took my poor little hike today, I sent many good vibes your way!!! xx,jjj

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 08:42 am

by the way where is Dunny's bio? Was expecting a good light hearted read about him. Had hoped to see him sporting one of those special outfits he wore on his bucks weekend.

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 08:37 am

Go the Swan Dog, Jill, Dunny Meister and Si. Proud of you all and sending my best wishes to you all. Especially thinking of you Jill. What a terrible illness to have to carry with you so early in the event. Do your best but be sure to look after your health first. Go hard, enjoy and be safe. Bye, Bill.

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 06:36 am

Go Team!!! Hoping you had a better day today! Thinking of you. Love to you both. Ween, Brad, Zoe and Luke xoxoxox

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 06:27 am

Hi Guys, Huge effort, amazing!! Keep strong!!! Love to you both. All the Noices.

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 01:17 am

Great result today! Hope you both managed to get some sleep and that your migrane has subsided. I hope Jill is also feeling much better. We think that both of you are just awesome! Good luck today on Stage 2. Will be thinking of you all day today and anxiously waiting to hear that you made it safely to camp.

Posted On: 15 Jun 2009 01:09 am

Swannie great effort look forward to hearing more of the adventures. You guys are a real inspiration to everyone. Hang in there.

Posted On: 14 Jun 2009 11:34 pm

Good work, mate. Dunn 13th overall? Test his urine. Where's the race marshalls? Seriously, well done to all. Amazing effort in that heat and on that terrain. Where's your blog, Dunn?

Posted On: 14 Jun 2009 10:33 pm

Hang in there Swannie, great to see you and Jill crossed the line together. Hoping you both have a better day today. Seems like Dunny lightened his load at just the right time and nailed the run...or his pre race complications enabled him to keep "running". Congrats Dunny...great start, fabulous result and just the primer you needed to kick start your first Desert run.

11 June 2009 05:34 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Just a quick blog to get things rolling.  As I've just finished purchasing all the essential scientifically proven pre-race dietary requirements - brownies, donuts, chocolate croissants and pizza - I can now quickly get my first blog out.

Firstly, thank you to everyone has contributed to www.gobi4good.com.  The response has been fantastic, a remarkable amount of money has been raised so far, particularly in this economic environment.  I truly believe this money is very well targeted - The Robert Tisch Brain Tumour Institute at Duke University as prime beneficiary, and www.kidsforlife.com.au, Camp Barnabas and Bear Cottage in Manly Australia as additional beneficiaries.

In what I imagine will be numerous moments of weakness over the coming week / 250km, I will take strength and courage from both Nathan Strickland and Ian Chin and their respective families in the way they have confronted brain cancer and subsequently thrown the challenge back at this horrible disease.  I will also take incredible strength from the way our son Jesse has responded to his diagnosis with Perthes Disease just 3 months ago.  The maturity and sensibility around his approach to the disease has been well beyond the 8 short years he has been on this planet.  We are so proud of the way he has responded to what is a challenging condition for an active 8 year boy.  We know that his approach is giving him the best possible chance of making a 110% recovery.  We are also so proud of Cooper and Benjamin in every aspect, particularly their care and love they show for the older brother.  And I am incredibly fortunate to be taking on and experiencing this challenge with my wife Jill.  I will particularly enjoy the fact that she will have 2-3 hours to get our tent organised before I arrive at camp every day ;).

Finally, I am really looking forward to our Post Gobi G- Party at Wagyu Lounge on Saturday June 27 from 8 PM.  I will have 250km now to think about what G attire I will be in that night.  Please mark it in your diary...next stop Kashgar

 

Comments: Total (5) comments

Posted On: 17 Jun 2009 06:42 am

I am writing for dee & mmeeee . we say well done and we hope your feet feel better and we hope mummy slept well and feels better today because we want to see you cross the finish line together and so did the boys but they are at ben's friend tom's party right now. see you soon love,JCBD !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted On: 14 Jun 2009 10:37 am

Hey Swannie, hope you came thru the 1st trial in good shape. Have emailed Pete as I can't get my blogging account set up yet. Looking forward to hearing how all your team members went 2day. Were you close on the heels of the 12hr 45min winner? Best wishes to u all for a great day 2morrow.

Posted On: 13 Jun 2009 02:51 am

Hey mate. Hang tough! Awe inspiring undertaking. Both Sam (Kennedy) and I wish you all every success. Will watch progress with keen interest.

Posted On: 13 Jun 2009 12:40 am

How exciting .... you're finally there! Best of luck and enjoy yourselves! I'll look forward to reading your updates with envy!!

Posted On: 11 Jun 2009 08:34 am

Hey guys, what a sensational and awe inspiring event you are undertaking. Congratulations to you all. Pushing the envelope by pitting your physical and mental endurance to limits not previously tested speaks volumes for your dedication to a most worthy and deserving cause. May your personal physical achievement be overwhelmed by the financial support you so richly deserve.