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Gobi March Blogs 2010
7
PostsGobi March (2010) blog posts from Jim Dixon
02 July 2010 10:31 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Well another day done and what a day it was! Holy smokes it is hot here! Today we entered the Turpan Basin for the first time and man what a shock to the system that was. Put it this way; I got into camp today at 11.20am after a 6am start and it was 40 degrees!
The day went really well and I was pretty pleased to be out of the sun and into the local river for a big swim and a chance to clean the clothes! The day started with a very early wake up call and bus trip to start the day in a winery, sadly I was unable to try the local pinot before heading off at 6am, I ran pretty well on the roads for the first 2 stages and was up with my tent mate Damien from France who is in 14th place overall and then we entered the hardcore desert. I decided to take it pretty easy, there was no way I was going to run with tomorrow's 100km epic journey ahead. The views and dunes were amazing, so steep at times and the dust/sand is like running on mountains of bull dust in the northern territory or queensland in Australia, very hard going. Apparently we have plenty of that to look forward to tomorrow.......
We are spending the night in some sort of ancient ruins museum, it's pretty crazy but nice and cool on the marble floor. The buildings are made entirely of the sand and hay mix, it's pretty cool.
So I think I am in 33rd place or something overall, not all that fussed where I finish I just want to get through the next very hard stage in 1 piece. We have just found out one of our tent mates is collapsed in the canyon on an IV drip so the reality has really come home to us all. Sure he will be ok, he's a doctor!!
So that's pretty much it from me, all is going well, sadly I have my first ever blister though! I suppose not bad after 4 days of running. Fingers crossed no more tomorrow.
Cheers again for the messages everyone, lovin the love!!
Big kiss for Ains! X
Laters!!
Jim
The day went really well and I was pretty pleased to be out of the sun and into the local river for a big swim and a chance to clean the clothes! The day started with a very early wake up call and bus trip to start the day in a winery, sadly I was unable to try the local pinot before heading off at 6am, I ran pretty well on the roads for the first 2 stages and was up with my tent mate Damien from France who is in 14th place overall and then we entered the hardcore desert. I decided to take it pretty easy, there was no way I was going to run with tomorrow's 100km epic journey ahead. The views and dunes were amazing, so steep at times and the dust/sand is like running on mountains of bull dust in the northern territory or queensland in Australia, very hard going. Apparently we have plenty of that to look forward to tomorrow.......
We are spending the night in some sort of ancient ruins museum, it's pretty crazy but nice and cool on the marble floor. The buildings are made entirely of the sand and hay mix, it's pretty cool.
So I think I am in 33rd place or something overall, not all that fussed where I finish I just want to get through the next very hard stage in 1 piece. We have just found out one of our tent mates is collapsed in the canyon on an IV drip so the reality has really come home to us all. Sure he will be ok, he's a doctor!!
So that's pretty much it from me, all is going well, sadly I have my first ever blister though! I suppose not bad after 4 days of running. Fingers crossed no more tomorrow.
Cheers again for the messages everyone, lovin the love!!
Big kiss for Ains! X
Laters!!
Jim
02 July 2010 09:13 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Hi folks,
Well the big bugger is done!! Oh my god, what a mission! Without doubt the toughest 24 hours of my life! I can now truly say I have been in the hurt locker. Just over 23 hours to knock the 100km off which may seem like a bit of time but out here is certainly is not. This place is brutal and takes no prisoners, there have been several withdrawls and I am pretty happy to be in camp despite the outrageous heat here in the dunes (that's right they have decided we should spend the day and night in the sand dunes!).
Yesterday started with a false alarm, we were told to be ready for a 6am start, up at 4am to be told at 4.55am that we would now be starting at 8am. Everyone was delighted!
We left our quirky ancient museum homestay and headed off running through several rivers just to help prepare the feet for the 24 hours ahead and then ran through the local townships, 155 or so lunatics stopping traffic as we ran by. The kids were really cool, giving high 5's and practicing their Hello's and OK's. We may have taught them some other inapproriate words along the way to say to our fellow competitors, was pretty comedy.
We then headed out into 'The Oven', the Turpan Basin. Quite possibly the most depressing and desolote place on earth. There is literally nothing there, no water, grass, people, nothing. Apparently 5 years ago there was a lake there but a large mining comany diverted all the water and started to search for minerals and salt deposits. All the buildings are deserted and nothing exists out there apart from a few private prospectors trying their luck.
After that it was on to more plains, boring endless plains. We were very, very lucky with the weather. It was overcast most of the day and the breeze was at our backs. The locals said they never get weather like that, we weren't complaining!
By about 8pm I was through the worst of it and heading back in towards local townships. There were plenty of irrigation channels flowing tepid water to drown your hat and have a wee wash, it was a real life saver and morale booster. I stopped at the 2nd to last checkpoint for 2 hours, I have VERY bad blisters on the backs and balls of my feet so I was desperate for a rest and a chance to get treated by the medical team. It was very frustrating as my energy levels were good and my hydratilon system was going well. I have never felt weak or dehydrated so to have to walk the last 30km like a cripple was very fruwstrating. Angry Jim crossed the finish line this morning!
The last few stages were spent winding through vineyards in the pitch black and unfortunately 5km from the end we got lost and had to sit down and wait for the sun to come up, oh well. Was probably a good thing as the last 5km was spent walking through sand dunes, up and down, up and down. It really did suck after 95km but in the end it all worked out as the sun was coming up over the dunes and I got some really good pics.
So that's pretty much it. Tomorrow is the last day, it will be a tough one for sure, 22km in the sand dunes.No light jog to the finish!
Cheers for all the messages of support!
Jim
Well the big bugger is done!! Oh my god, what a mission! Without doubt the toughest 24 hours of my life! I can now truly say I have been in the hurt locker. Just over 23 hours to knock the 100km off which may seem like a bit of time but out here is certainly is not. This place is brutal and takes no prisoners, there have been several withdrawls and I am pretty happy to be in camp despite the outrageous heat here in the dunes (that's right they have decided we should spend the day and night in the sand dunes!).
Yesterday started with a false alarm, we were told to be ready for a 6am start, up at 4am to be told at 4.55am that we would now be starting at 8am. Everyone was delighted!
We left our quirky ancient museum homestay and headed off running through several rivers just to help prepare the feet for the 24 hours ahead and then ran through the local townships, 155 or so lunatics stopping traffic as we ran by. The kids were really cool, giving high 5's and practicing their Hello's and OK's. We may have taught them some other inapproriate words along the way to say to our fellow competitors, was pretty comedy.
We then headed out into 'The Oven', the Turpan Basin. Quite possibly the most depressing and desolote place on earth. There is literally nothing there, no water, grass, people, nothing. Apparently 5 years ago there was a lake there but a large mining comany diverted all the water and started to search for minerals and salt deposits. All the buildings are deserted and nothing exists out there apart from a few private prospectors trying their luck.
After that it was on to more plains, boring endless plains. We were very, very lucky with the weather. It was overcast most of the day and the breeze was at our backs. The locals said they never get weather like that, we weren't complaining!
By about 8pm I was through the worst of it and heading back in towards local townships. There were plenty of irrigation channels flowing tepid water to drown your hat and have a wee wash, it was a real life saver and morale booster. I stopped at the 2nd to last checkpoint for 2 hours, I have VERY bad blisters on the backs and balls of my feet so I was desperate for a rest and a chance to get treated by the medical team. It was very frustrating as my energy levels were good and my hydratilon system was going well. I have never felt weak or dehydrated so to have to walk the last 30km like a cripple was very fruwstrating. Angry Jim crossed the finish line this morning!
The last few stages were spent winding through vineyards in the pitch black and unfortunately 5km from the end we got lost and had to sit down and wait for the sun to come up, oh well. Was probably a good thing as the last 5km was spent walking through sand dunes, up and down, up and down. It really did suck after 95km but in the end it all worked out as the sun was coming up over the dunes and I got some really good pics.
So that's pretty much it. Tomorrow is the last day, it will be a tough one for sure, 22km in the sand dunes.No light jog to the finish!
Cheers for all the messages of support!
Jim
Comments: Total (4) comments
Posted On: 04 Jul 2010 11:02 am
On on James from Gobi to who knows where---paddling 750kms down the Yukon isn't it?! It was an absolute privilidge to welcome you across the finish line. Dad and I were very proud parents. And the wonderful opinions expressed about you from every competitor we met was absolutely the best of all. Was sad to wave goodbye to you this morning. Rest well. Love, Mum.x
Posted On: 03 Jul 2010 12:57 am
You are a hero to get through that.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 11:29 pm
Incredible effort babe, you are a total hero!!! And I find it absolutely amazing that after 100km you can still write a lengthy blog post in good spirits and see the silver lining to getting lost...totally impressed! Can't wait to speak to you today! Party like a rockstar tonight...you made it!!! Sending you massive amounts of kisses and hugs! Hope the blisters are ok!?!? xoxo
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 05:08 pm
You're a legend, what more can I say! Good luck for the last dash!
29 June 2010 08:56 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Howdy Folks!
Well I have arrived at camp 4 after an eventful and reasonable day. Didn't get much sleep last night for whatever reason so wasn't feeling all that great when I woke up this morning so I left camp in a bad mood and it ended up helping me for the most part! Unfortunately though the day didn't end too well after I rolled my right ankle in one of the river crossings in stage 1 and I paid for it later in the day. The first stage saw about 6 river crossings which I really liked on the whole but just close to the first check point I went over as I helped my mate Jim from Vancouver as he was about to be swept away. I made it to the check point and the next stage went really well. It was on a long, long gravel road and I really enjoyed it and was in 22nd place at check point 2 and the first of the 'normal people'. Unfortunately it was as I left the road and headed into the hills that I realised my ankle was not too good. I was unable to run on the unstable ground and sadly my day of glory was over, I decided to walk the rest of the 10km hill stage and the final road into camp. I figure there is a bloody long way to go still and there is no way I want to be a wreck in the 100km stage on Thursday and Friday (that's right people stage 5 is now 100km!!!!!) Everybody is a little freaked out! So anyway got into camp in 32nd place in a time of 3hr 53min.
So since arriving in camp I have had a swim in the river (Gold!!), was great to get the legs in the cold water for a local icebath. We are staying in a local village and are spending the night in their houses which is cool. They are pretty cool and are speaking a bit of English to us and we are trying our hand at the local language. They are majority Muslim up here so my 3 words of Chinese are of no use!
The weather was good today, we were really lucky and had overcast conditions all through the run but now it is roasting!! Tomorrow we are up at 2.45am to go to the next stage which is a 1hr 30min bus trip away. We are underway at 6am, it is mega hot here and tomorrow will be far worse so I am hoping to be into camp as early as possible tomorrow so I can rest up for the giant stage!
Thanks for all the messages and blog comments, great to hear from everyone. Keep them coming as it really gives you a boost when you get into camp and can read the messages.
Big Love!!
Jim
Well I have arrived at camp 4 after an eventful and reasonable day. Didn't get much sleep last night for whatever reason so wasn't feeling all that great when I woke up this morning so I left camp in a bad mood and it ended up helping me for the most part! Unfortunately though the day didn't end too well after I rolled my right ankle in one of the river crossings in stage 1 and I paid for it later in the day. The first stage saw about 6 river crossings which I really liked on the whole but just close to the first check point I went over as I helped my mate Jim from Vancouver as he was about to be swept away. I made it to the check point and the next stage went really well. It was on a long, long gravel road and I really enjoyed it and was in 22nd place at check point 2 and the first of the 'normal people'. Unfortunately it was as I left the road and headed into the hills that I realised my ankle was not too good. I was unable to run on the unstable ground and sadly my day of glory was over, I decided to walk the rest of the 10km hill stage and the final road into camp. I figure there is a bloody long way to go still and there is no way I want to be a wreck in the 100km stage on Thursday and Friday (that's right people stage 5 is now 100km!!!!!) Everybody is a little freaked out! So anyway got into camp in 32nd place in a time of 3hr 53min.
So since arriving in camp I have had a swim in the river (Gold!!), was great to get the legs in the cold water for a local icebath. We are staying in a local village and are spending the night in their houses which is cool. They are pretty cool and are speaking a bit of English to us and we are trying our hand at the local language. They are majority Muslim up here so my 3 words of Chinese are of no use!
The weather was good today, we were really lucky and had overcast conditions all through the run but now it is roasting!! Tomorrow we are up at 2.45am to go to the next stage which is a 1hr 30min bus trip away. We are underway at 6am, it is mega hot here and tomorrow will be far worse so I am hoping to be into camp as early as possible tomorrow so I can rest up for the giant stage!
Thanks for all the messages and blog comments, great to hear from everyone. Keep them coming as it really gives you a boost when you get into camp and can read the messages.
Big Love!!
Jim
Comments: Total (28) comments
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 01:00 pm
Kaixo Jim. Animo!!! Not so bad ir our champ. Specially well the last day fightin with the big men. 25 overall, not bad considering xabi was the youngest of 90 players. Hi has learn a couple of things, and his motivation has grown.
Now Biarritz, Basque country champ, all clubs around championships, and first of august to Southport. Poor english! Agur
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 12:07 pm
WOO HOO babe, you did it!!! I knew you would! Legendary stuff!!!! Hope your body is holding up ok and just think...a mere (??) 22km tomorrow and there will be cold beer and a real bed waiting for you!! Can't wait to hear all about it and see your pics! You are A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!!!!!! Big love xoxo
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 11:53 am
Incredible hunk! 'Absolutely Fabulous' my boy! I'll have you know your father was walking around old Turpan ruins in 35 degree heat today---telling me it was far worse than any 100km sprint across the desert! See you at the finish line. xx
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 11:27 am
hey jimbo,
what your doing sound mad,
and i always thought pre-season was hard.
just keep tearing away like a tinkers shirt.
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 09:11 am
WHOOP WHOOP! HIGH FIVE. Awesome effort. You swam a long way. Hello hurt locker? Haha. On the home straight big guy. Like cheets said... pit your every soul against the unknown and seek stimulation in the comfort of the brave... Top effort. See you Monday for beers. This is why you do it... The moments after looking down the hill!
Posted On: 02 Jul 2010 08:52 am
YOU MADE IT! And under 24 hrs - what a legend. I've been sitting glued to the computer this evening keeping an eye on the Results screen, and well good things come to those who wait - I've just seen you're now back safe & hopefully sound! Can't wait to hear about it. Lots of love, Kath xoxo
Posted On: 01 Jul 2010 03:19 pm
Eat the elephant mate!! Bit by bit! 100km.....that is truly insane but if anyone can do it, you can. Monumental and mental. You have that strength mate, seen it first hand! We are all behind, sadly some of us behind desks when we would love to be there. Enjoy every minute.
Rossco sent me this once
......" pit your every soul against the unknown and seek stimulation in the comfort of the brave...."
Much love
Cheets
Posted On: 01 Jul 2010 12:35 pm
Only one more day to go babe! Spoke to your Mum today from Urumqi and they are excited about seeing you cross the finish line! Keep going, you're almost there!! xoxox
Posted On: 01 Jul 2010 06:43 am
Muy bueno Jim te veo bien
animo que solo te faltan dos.
A por ellos....
agur
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 07:12 pm
Hi James. Just to let you know I'm following your news and enjoying the updates. Awesome effort.
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 03:31 pm
Hey James, Looking forward to arriving in Beijing tomorrow morning and thinking of you already started on the 100!
Really hope today has left some reserve in your tank for it. We are in Singapore airport now! I have had an ultra-marathon 10 hour wait here in the airport for Dad! Am I nuts or what!!!! Pretty sure you wont see this before you start slogging the 100 anyway. But all the very best from us. xxooxx
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 02:25 pm
Hang in there Buddy. Remember mind over matter. I know easier said than done. Hope your ankle isn't bothering you today. Just think of the FINISH LINE and a cold one later! Great for Spain in the World Cup..that's who I am supporting of course! GO JIM!!!
Hank's Family
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 12:15 pm
Good work jim sounds like an epic effort!!
Keep up the good work look forward to hearing about it when you get back.
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 11:01 am
My man! 100km stage is insane! Great effort so far dude, smash those stages and then get your feet up! Staying with the locals sounds amazing a great way of embracing the culture.
Strap that ankle and get your run ON!
Enjoy!! Im very jealous!
R
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 10:49 am
Hi Jim, this message is for your mum not you I'm afraid (although good luck, and keep going great guns. Strap the ankle and hang in there).
Jim's Mum - please email me if you need help getting transport to the finish line if that is your plan [email protected]
On! On! Jim...
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 10:42 am
P.S - awesome news on the no blister issue :)
xoxo
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 10:40 am
Hey James :)
I am keeping up with your blog but first day had time to reply!! It sounds like you are really positive and having a blast, can't wait to see all of ur pics and hear all about it when we chat again. Super proud of u been telling everyone i chat to about my brother doing the Gobi March lol. I really hope ur ankle holds out for you and maybe just trip the other guy next time lol it's what i would've done lol - no i would not :) Really hope you go ok and will continue to read your blog each day. oh and i will def be thinkin of you when u do the 100km!!! Lots of Love take care of yourself.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 10:37 am
Hope the ankle held up for you and the early start did not knacker you. Just found the blog so as usual I am behind the eight ball on what is happening.
Hope you have a nice physio to mend the damaged bits.
Go well!!
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 09:58 am
PS. Serviced apartment in Trafalgar Square till 1 August - Yay! x
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 09:48 am
Good luck tomorrow!!! As the boys say...just one checkpoint at a time! Can't wait to read about you crossing the finish line of this BIG stage! You'll smash it!!! Fingers and toes all crossed that your ankle holds up. Biggest love ever x
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 08:52 am
Jim, Awesome effort mate, you are smashing it and I must admit I'm jealous sat here at work! Hope the ankle doesn't cause too many problems. As Rossco says the long stage is just check point by check point. Keep it going and enjoy the sleeping bag!
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 08:41 am
Watch that ankle James.... However, taking it a bit slower helped and the river etc. Dont think about the long one. Think about the mini stages and it will see you through. Set little goals and the bigger ones will come! Amazing effort. All mega proud... JUST KEEP SWIMMING
Posted On: 30 Jun 2010 01:23 am
P.S. Well I told you to keep your hands off Jim! ;o) Heh heh! (Try the 'Tripod Manoevure' next time...and no, it's not what you're thinking :o).
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 11:37 pm
Sucks about your ankle babe, hopefully a good nights rest and the cold water would have done it the world of good! 100km for stage 5 - are the organisers insane!?! You'll be sweet just keep putting one foot in front of the other! Hope you make it into camp early today for plenty of rest and eat lots of food so your pack is light, light, light! Good luck!! Oh and Spain beat Portugal by 1 last night - woo hoo! xoxo
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 10:04 pm
What a botheration James. Sure hope the icy water has helped and that you can keep inflammation out of the picture. Wise call to give it a break by walking. The terrain is certainly varied and a 'Challenge'! I love being able to see the photos each day--It's kind of like we are already there. I am at the airport now in Bne and meet Dad in a few hours in Singapore. I will make sure his wallet is wadded as per his pledge! We will be in Beijing tomorrow morning and next stop ----GOBI!! All the best for the lead up to the hell day! Love, Mum.x
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 09:04 pm
Sorry anbout the ankle James, hope it improves for you. What an amazing experience. Granny is reading your blogs and is very interested.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 07:54 pm
Sorry to hear about your ankle; how annoying. I can sympathise after once having to walk for 2 days to get out of the bush on a badly sprained ankle carrying a 20+kg pack (where's an EPIRB when you want one, eh!)! There's nothing like a bit of uneven ground to really make your day in that sort of situation. That's when you really see how far you can push the boundaries, and how cra-zy you can get! I guess the nice cold river water would've been good for it at the end of the day. Hope you do make it in to camp early so you can rest up before the monster-stage! KIA KAHA! Love, Kath xoxo.
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 05:17 pm
Hi James - take care of your ankle. I got some new football boots from England today they are cool. I saw your photos on the internet
28 June 2010 09:15 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Howdy folks!
Well day 2 is done and dusted. Finished in 30th place with a time of 3hrs 47min.
Got a pretty good sleep last night and felt ok this morning, I was worried about my shoulders last night but they came through the day well, I changed my pack around a little and it seemed to reduce the stress. My only issue from the first day was a sunburnt right arm which I noticed this morning! I somehow managed to put sun cream on my left arm yesterday but not the right! Woops!
The stages were good today, the first one was 12km and went through some more rolling hills similar to yesterday with a couple of great down-hills which meant we were able to run a lot of it. The canyons were spectacular and I got some great photos along the way. I spent the day with 2 other guys; Jim from Vancouver and Arjen from the Netherlands. They were good guys and we ran at a very similar pace running together from about the 3km mark and crossed the line hand in hand, nice touch! The highlight of the day was without doubt the first stage and then the river crossing a few kilometres from camp. The water was cold and it felt good to fill the hat up and dump it on the head. There was no problems getting the shoes dry at camp as it has been very hot today. It's been good to get into camp early and relax.
So all in all a good day, meeting more great people and looking forward to tomorrow.
Still no blisters!!
Lots of love to everyone.
Cheers!
Well day 2 is done and dusted. Finished in 30th place with a time of 3hrs 47min.
Got a pretty good sleep last night and felt ok this morning, I was worried about my shoulders last night but they came through the day well, I changed my pack around a little and it seemed to reduce the stress. My only issue from the first day was a sunburnt right arm which I noticed this morning! I somehow managed to put sun cream on my left arm yesterday but not the right! Woops!
The stages were good today, the first one was 12km and went through some more rolling hills similar to yesterday with a couple of great down-hills which meant we were able to run a lot of it. The canyons were spectacular and I got some great photos along the way. I spent the day with 2 other guys; Jim from Vancouver and Arjen from the Netherlands. They were good guys and we ran at a very similar pace running together from about the 3km mark and crossed the line hand in hand, nice touch! The highlight of the day was without doubt the first stage and then the river crossing a few kilometres from camp. The water was cold and it felt good to fill the hat up and dump it on the head. There was no problems getting the shoes dry at camp as it has been very hot today. It's been good to get into camp early and relax.
So all in all a good day, meeting more great people and looking forward to tomorrow.
Still no blisters!!
Lots of love to everyone.
Cheers!
Comments: Total (7) comments
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 03:12 pm
Keep up the positive spirits Jim. Delighted that you are having fun too! Don't forget the sunscreen today.
Agur
Hank's Family
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 02:57 pm
Good stuff mate, thats an awesome time and allows loads of time to recover and relax, feet up. Dump some of that useless stuff and stay light!! I am glad you are having such an epic race. Cant wait to hear the stories and see the photos. Keep going mate, eat the elephant.....one leg at a time
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 01:29 pm
Sounds like your doing good so far, nice work. Henry and I have been looking at the photos and videos, looks like an amazing experience!
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 12:22 pm
Proud of you James. And jealous as--!! Keep some reserve for the BIG day.Incredible location. Rob in Emerald now. All good with them so far. leaving here tomo morn. See you. Love, Mum.xx
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 09:53 am
Muy bueno JIm, vas mejorando ahora si que pareces un vasco.
Cuidate y suerte para mañana.
agur
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 08:29 am
Top effort Jimbo.... Good work on the blisters. Im glad that you have come to terms with man love in the desert. Hope the little mans sleeping bag suffices, I hear its pretty cold out there! JUST KEEP SWIMMING
Posted On: 29 Jun 2010 06:03 am
Well done , 3 down, great effort.
I hope the country you are not is not too rough I dont want to get too shaken up in the car making the way to the finish!!!
See you soon.
27 June 2010 07:12 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Hi Folks,
Well after a fun-filled bus trip yesterday which included blocked roads, roads to narrow for the buses (the organisers were ok, they were in 4wds and were well settled into camp by the time we arrived....) and our bus driver demanding more money for the trip after his bus took a hit on one of our diversions we made it to camp and settled in with some delicious shepherds pie and a coke (yum!). We arrived pretty late after the opening ceremony in a nearby town so after dinner it was off to bed for some much needed sleep. It was then I realised Dodsy had supplied me with a miniature sleeping bag (shouldn't have expected any different), I did the best I could. There weren't too many toilet stops after mega hydration.
So the day began well, everyone was in a good mood and excited about the start. We headed off at 9.30am which was a reasonable hour for me and soon got into a slow steady stride. After about 3km I decided to stop and change my foot set up, I had no feeling in my feet, thought a change was best!
The first two stages were pretty straight forward, undulating ground with few tough hills which was nice, the scenery was magic, beautiful snow capped mountains and plenty of perplexed locals to laugh at all the crazy westerners. The third stage on the other hand was a whole other story... 15km of brutal mountain goat tracks in the hottest part of the day. There were some truly tough climbs followed by very dicey descents, with 12kg on your back not so fun! The views were incredible, most of us stopping regularly to take photos and try to breathe. All in all though a really good day, lots of laughs and I met some really great people throughout the stages. It was pretty cool crossing the line with several fellow kiwis around.
So tomorrow brings a shorter stage but I'm guessing some tasty hills. Believe it or not it is very cold here and very, very windy. All adds to the challenge I suppose!
So to summarise:
Midget Sleeping Bags: 1
Blisters: 0 YES!!!!
Numb Feet: 2
Shoulder Pain: Immense!
Seeing the finish line after the evil hills: Priceless!
Cheers,
Jim
Well after a fun-filled bus trip yesterday which included blocked roads, roads to narrow for the buses (the organisers were ok, they were in 4wds and were well settled into camp by the time we arrived....) and our bus driver demanding more money for the trip after his bus took a hit on one of our diversions we made it to camp and settled in with some delicious shepherds pie and a coke (yum!). We arrived pretty late after the opening ceremony in a nearby town so after dinner it was off to bed for some much needed sleep. It was then I realised Dodsy had supplied me with a miniature sleeping bag (shouldn't have expected any different), I did the best I could. There weren't too many toilet stops after mega hydration.
So the day began well, everyone was in a good mood and excited about the start. We headed off at 9.30am which was a reasonable hour for me and soon got into a slow steady stride. After about 3km I decided to stop and change my foot set up, I had no feeling in my feet, thought a change was best!
The first two stages were pretty straight forward, undulating ground with few tough hills which was nice, the scenery was magic, beautiful snow capped mountains and plenty of perplexed locals to laugh at all the crazy westerners. The third stage on the other hand was a whole other story... 15km of brutal mountain goat tracks in the hottest part of the day. There were some truly tough climbs followed by very dicey descents, with 12kg on your back not so fun! The views were incredible, most of us stopping regularly to take photos and try to breathe. All in all though a really good day, lots of laughs and I met some really great people throughout the stages. It was pretty cool crossing the line with several fellow kiwis around.
So tomorrow brings a shorter stage but I'm guessing some tasty hills. Believe it or not it is very cold here and very, very windy. All adds to the challenge I suppose!
So to summarise:
Midget Sleeping Bags: 1
Blisters: 0 YES!!!!
Numb Feet: 2
Shoulder Pain: Immense!
Seeing the finish line after the evil hills: Priceless!
Cheers,
Jim
Comments: Total (15) comments
Posted On: 03 Jul 2010 10:12 pm
Very proud of you ,very well done for someone who is probably mentally handicapped taking on one of the worst places in the world.Hope to see you again soon.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 07:55 pm
James, I want you to understand that extreme physical exertion can play havoc with ones mental state.
From now on, please keep your hands firmly in your pockets when approaching the finish line...at least until you're back downunder, where men are men....'n all that.
With love & concern,
Your elder sister.
(P.S. Is "I thought you were going to trip me up" code-talk? ...Anyone?! Please!).
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 07:33 pm
My man! What an effort already! Good luck for the next stage! Got your back!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 05:37 pm
We always thought you had a softer side to you. Hand in hand..how cute. Well done buddy. All the best for Stage #3. Hanks Family
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 05:03 pm
Jim estas gordito, pero bueno
has llegado con todas las
chicas.
Buena suerte y que te vaya
bien. AGUR
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 02:25 pm
Awesome work mate, good luck for the rest of the race!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 09:19 am
Great work Jim, just seen you smashed stage 2 as well. I'm glad you are loving the sleeping bag, not sure what the problem is, it fits me perfectly!! Hope you are enjoying the morning briefings as much as Cheets did. Good luck for stage 3.
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 09:10 am
Ross, I knew you'd be jealous of the man love! Sounded like a great finish hon!!! Well done, keep it up! x
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 09:00 am
Awesome Jimmer, thrash it!!
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 08:54 am
What a man! Great going big guy... Slightly jealous of the hand holding but I can forgive. Glad the Injiji's are doing their job. JUST KEEP SWIMMING. Big love
Posted On: 28 Jun 2010 08:26 am
Great going James, with you every step of the way! And following with interest :)
hope the weather continues to be favourable during the day
KEEP IT UP!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 11:57 pm
Woo hoo! Well done babe! 0 blisters huh, the toe socks are living up to their reputation! Enjoy tomorrow and just dream of hot baths, massages and cold beer at the end of it...it will all be worth it! Everyone here is thinking of you and sending loads of encouragement! Have fun (?!?) on todays challenge, I know you'll rock it! xoxo
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 10:43 pm
good stuff jimbo, no blisters eh? well you just arent goin fast enough ha ha!! glad to hear you are in good spirits.....oh and the ABs won......again carter on fire!1
great reading the blogs keep trekking we are all behind you
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 09:19 pm
"Rolling Hills..." my foot!
0 Blisters though, that's gotta be good!
Kxo
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 04:16 pm
Way to go buddy! Delighted your first stage went really well. The experience will be with you for a lifetime. Take care and looking forward to hearing your news about today's challenge.
Sheila, Randy, Devin and Braden
24 June 2010 09:11 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Well the training and preparation is all done and now it's time to get under way! Just wanted to say a very big thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me over the past few months. I am thoroughly looking forward to this massive physical and mental challenge, it's not going to be easy but I am as ready as I can be and I'm gonna give it all I have. So thanks again and keep checking my blog as I will be updating it daily from Sunday to give you an insight into how my days are going. Cheers!
Comments: Total (4) comments
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 01:21 pm
Good luck, hope it's all going well!
Posted On: 27 Jun 2010 09:32 am
Right behind you big guy.... Going to be an adventure of a lifetime! Peaks and troughs finishing at the summit.... Your a true legend. PS / Dont let Luce cry
Posted On: 26 Jun 2010 03:16 am
You'll rock it babe! Wish I could be there to see you over the finish line but I know your Mum and Dad will be there cheering for you! Enjoy it and just keep running!! Big love xoxo
Posted On: 26 Jun 2010 12:47 am
Jimmy
Your going to do well. Your preparation is good.
Look forward to reading your blogs.
Pete
09 April 2010 01:29 am (GMT+01:00) Brussels, Copenhagen, Madrid, Paris
Hi folks,
So...... Time for my first blog entry, never done this before!
Well training is well and truly underway for the big race in June! Been running regularly and building the distance and times slowly, for a rugby player not so easy! Have already lost about 11kg!!!! Comfortably running 30km at a time now and tomorrow I am heading for the mountains to do some serious climbing (Mt Txindoki). Trying to mix the training up; mountain biking, long slowish runs, hill hikes etc. Hopefully it's the right recipe for a successful race.
Don't forget to donate anything you can to my 2 charities; Bliss UK and Cruz Roja Spain.
Cheers for your support,
Jim
Comments: Total (2) comments
Posted On: 25 Jun 2010 01:43 am
All the very best James. I hope all the training you have done will make it not too hard for you. I will be reading your blog and printing it off for Granny
Posted On: 25 Jun 2010 01:13 am
Go hard! Show them what Kiwis are made of!! :o)
Wish I could be there to cheer you along the way (or, at least at the finish!). I'll be thinking of you anyway.
Love
Kath xoxo
Comments: Total (7) comments
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