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Gobi March Blogs 2014
8
PostsGobi March (2014) blog posts from Andrew Espin
08 June 2014 08:25 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
So just a final wrap up of the last week as I sit in a still smoky hotel room in Urumqi.
The final stage was a staggered start on a very, very cold morning along the lake for 14km, with my group being the middle one at 9:30 with pretty all the gang! We chatted and messed about before lining up and started out on what I still could not believe was the final stage of the week. At the beginning it felt like the week was so long and most certainly on day two and three it felt Iike it would never end, but here it is.
The route, keeping next the lake at all times was slippery with lake sand, and eventually over some grass lands, with some ditches and river crossings thrown in for old time's sake. I felt pretty good, surprisingly, and just kept on with my pace, not hurrying to catch anyone, but just enjoy the silence (my iPod died officially at the end of the long stage) and soon I could hear the beating of the drum at the finishing line, but in typical RTP fashion, I just could not see the flags and the banner.
And so it continued until finally I could see the flags rise out of the dip and there it was.
They had a station about 100m away from the finishing banner where we could scan our time cArds, so that we could do the last but and finish in our own way.
Much revelry (and much much beer) ensued along with a great portion of egg fried rice and the two hour bus trip back to Bole brought us back to reality.
The week was certainy and interesting one - I went to a place that I think I forgot about, it only took three days of suffering at the beginning to remind myself about it - one thing that that remains constant is that be support from home and friends has been tremendous, I have an awesome and appreciated support system and a,k the encouragement meant so much through the week.
To my Gobi Gang who made the week so special, much gratitude! Great memories.
To my wife, it wouldn't have been possible without your support, getting me there, and getting me to the finish line,
Much love
Andrew
06 June 2014 01:43 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
So I live to die another day – the long march is behind me and all that’s left is the last 14km.
Our makeshift camp is situated a little further along Lake Sanyram – they had to move it due to weather – hello, Iceland hahahah although when they told me at checkpoint 6 I did have visions of a school hall with showers J
Ok, so the long march was probably my best running day here – irony? But when the cosmic tumblers of the universe just click into place, it’s a magical thing! We stared off and headed for about 15km of flat boring scenery – I started with my truffle shuffle – and thought to myself “oh my word, this is going to be a long-ass day”! after checkpoint 2 the climbing started and I put my podcast on that I had saved for this and just trudged up the mountain pass – herds of wild horses, camels and sheep dotted the mountain slopes – at about 30km I had an odd dip wher I found myself becoming really emotional, probably just due to exhaustion an started getting passed by people – but I didn’t freak out jut kept trudging – after check point three the gradient kicked up and we left the pass to go up the hill side to check point 4 at the highest point of the event so far, 2790m – lungs burning, but head down music on, I caught up and passed the people who had overtaken me, and then it was crunch time – faced with a brutal 10km downhill, my legs were shaky from the climb, but I just thought “f8ck it” and ran, and ran and ran – not fast mind you, but I made sure I ran every runnable section, stopping twice for an “extended” loo break. Tried to concentrate on the music, not thinking of distance to go, but every beep of a kilometre done as a mini victory.
Check point 6 I had to take my pack off, a bit of a mission as part of the front pouch was now cable tied on, but put my water proof on, and got my headlight out for just in case! I could see a storm in the distance and wasn’t taking a chance as we climbed from 1400m back up to 2500m over the 11km stage to check point seven – I walked up what I could, ran everything that looked like a downhill and I found myself being a bit of a grump when I worked out that the course was going to be longer than 68.1km – and found Martin who was battling his own tummy problems just before the beast of a climb up to cp7 – and we ran the 5,5km down the hill with the sight of lake Sanyram, ringed by snow peaked mountains, bathed in the twilight. A very happy camper – stopping my gps at 71,3km. It was great to finish the stage with someone, especially as the finish line was a banner, the drums and a 4x4 waiting to take us to camp.
The poor people behind me ended up having snow at cp7 and last night was a very, very cold night, I have three layers on in the sun and am still shivering.
Once again thank you to everyone blogging, commented and emailing, from my stalwarts to the surprises, you all mean a lot to me!
Cannot wait to catch up with all of you, I am soooooo going to make up for the caffeine deficit.
And to my darling Bee, listening to my favourite Joni Mitchell song yesterday, I could drink a case of you and still be on my feet.
Our makeshift camp is situated a little further along Lake Sanyram – they had to move it due to weather – hello, Iceland hahahah although when they told me at checkpoint 6 I did have visions of a school hall with showers J
Ok, so the long march was probably my best running day here – irony? But when the cosmic tumblers of the universe just click into place, it’s a magical thing! We stared off and headed for about 15km of flat boring scenery – I started with my truffle shuffle – and thought to myself “oh my word, this is going to be a long-ass day”! after checkpoint 2 the climbing started and I put my podcast on that I had saved for this and just trudged up the mountain pass – herds of wild horses, camels and sheep dotted the mountain slopes – at about 30km I had an odd dip wher I found myself becoming really emotional, probably just due to exhaustion an started getting passed by people – but I didn’t freak out jut kept trudging – after check point three the gradient kicked up and we left the pass to go up the hill side to check point 4 at the highest point of the event so far, 2790m – lungs burning, but head down music on, I caught up and passed the people who had overtaken me, and then it was crunch time – faced with a brutal 10km downhill, my legs were shaky from the climb, but I just thought “f8ck it” and ran, and ran and ran – not fast mind you, but I made sure I ran every runnable section, stopping twice for an “extended” loo break. Tried to concentrate on the music, not thinking of distance to go, but every beep of a kilometre done as a mini victory.
Check point 6 I had to take my pack off, a bit of a mission as part of the front pouch was now cable tied on, but put my water proof on, and got my headlight out for just in case! I could see a storm in the distance and wasn’t taking a chance as we climbed from 1400m back up to 2500m over the 11km stage to check point seven – I walked up what I could, ran everything that looked like a downhill and I found myself being a bit of a grump when I worked out that the course was going to be longer than 68.1km – and found Martin who was battling his own tummy problems just before the beast of a climb up to cp7 – and we ran the 5,5km down the hill with the sight of lake Sanyram, ringed by snow peaked mountains, bathed in the twilight. A very happy camper – stopping my gps at 71,3km. It was great to finish the stage with someone, especially as the finish line was a banner, the drums and a 4x4 waiting to take us to camp.
The poor people behind me ended up having snow at cp7 and last night was a very, very cold night, I have three layers on in the sun and am still shivering.
Once again thank you to everyone blogging, commented and emailing, from my stalwarts to the surprises, you all mean a lot to me!
Cannot wait to catch up with all of you, I am soooooo going to make up for the caffeine deficit.
And to my darling Bee, listening to my favourite Joni Mitchell song yesterday, I could drink a case of you and still be on my feet.
Comments: Total (9) comments
Des Cowie
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 07:41 pm
You bloody well did it, as if there was ever any doubt! Fabulous running Andy! Congrats congrats congrats
Janet Melidonis
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 07:06 pm
Yaaaay... another one in the bag! Have a wonderful holiday!
Ian Waddell
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 03:14 pm
Well done on your BIG Day out!!! 25th overall and keeping on moving!!! well done my friend!,
Joan Grobler
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 01:46 pm
Wow great race! Well done Andrew! Have a lekker holiday!
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 01:03 pm
Told you that you would smash the long stage... You've done incredibly well Andy and I'm sure you cannot wait for that shower and to get out of those clothes - not to mention see your lovely Bee. Well done, we have so enjoyed sharing this journey with you. It's just a matter of 14kms and then you have yet another medal, another victory and more amazing memories. xxx
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 11:30 am
Another fantastic feat! You are fantastic-well done!!!
Sean Moolman
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 08:10 am
Hats off to you Andrew! Admiration all round from this quarter. By now your race must be over and a wonderful holiday beckons. Hope you and Bretta are going to have a great time.
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 05:11 am
So glad to hear you enjoyed the long stage. Sounds Tots amazeballs and seriously hectic.All the best for the last 14km.
bee e
Posted On: 07 Jun 2014 04:48 am
mawwy darling andrew_e, I could not actually be any prouder of u than today, u have totally rocked this race. Soooo glad the long stage was your best day, u deserve that. Also so happy that u had such great music and podcasts. Awwww to Joni <3 TWO more sleeps, my love. Chat later x
04 June 2014 01:43 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
It’s hard to dance with the devil on your back, so today I had to Shake It Out.
I just tried to run for myself and remember how I used to do it and I got through a tough 48 almost 49km.
I hope Zandy’s photos come out because even for someone who is generally good at stringing a sentence together could not fully do justice to the epic shi*t we had to climb today,it just went on and on.
But none the less, we had sun – and I decided today that I need sun to run – and we ran through green valleys (and the afore mentioned mountains) with flocks of sheep and wild horses galloping in front of me,truly truly breath taking.
The snows from the last night had started melting and the streams where a little higher than what I think they ought to have been – so some wet shoes, but it wasn’t a problem. No blisters (yet) just a small chafe on my right ankle.
From the last check point we headed a brutal 5km downhill (for the homebodies, think concrete road for 4km) and then through a small town.
Met up with Martin again in town, whom I had run on and off with for most of the day, and we parted again with about 3km to go, as his pace is slightly faster than mine, and I wanted to settle into the iron man shuffle. Lene and Brad finished within minutes of me today, these guys are just awesome, eating up the course, and it’s great to have such markers!!!!!
Roux and Karen, I am not going to complain about pull ups and hand stand walks again!!! I neglected to reply to your comment.
CK – never forget Team Iceland!!! Looking forward to giving you guys the lowdown!!! And so much technical running here, you would have been in your element.
Sandra, keep those vibes coming! Tummy’s still an issue, but overall just need energy and good head!
Daniel-Son – Consultancy services for life for you my friend, looking this good is transcendent.
Craig! So good to hear from you!!! We need to get you back to one of these shindigs!!!!
Des – I would kill for a Pisco Sour!!!!! I am dying without proper coffee, and I think Sours for pack tips????? Sound good?
Angelique – Dory is a super star – love to KikkiB and the units.
Gail – thanks keeping positive today was a big help!!!
Janet – thanks for the post!!! As always you put big smile on my face!
Matt – thanks for the message and strength for the next couple of weeks, I know I have nothing to worry about.
Lastly, and this is where I lose all street cred J but I realised that I am totally lost without my wife, and finishing just means a day closer to you. Love you baby!!
I just tried to run for myself and remember how I used to do it and I got through a tough 48 almost 49km.
I hope Zandy’s photos come out because even for someone who is generally good at stringing a sentence together could not fully do justice to the epic shi*t we had to climb today,it just went on and on.
But none the less, we had sun – and I decided today that I need sun to run – and we ran through green valleys (and the afore mentioned mountains) with flocks of sheep and wild horses galloping in front of me,truly truly breath taking.
The snows from the last night had started melting and the streams where a little higher than what I think they ought to have been – so some wet shoes, but it wasn’t a problem. No blisters (yet) just a small chafe on my right ankle.
From the last check point we headed a brutal 5km downhill (for the homebodies, think concrete road for 4km) and then through a small town.
Met up with Martin again in town, whom I had run on and off with for most of the day, and we parted again with about 3km to go, as his pace is slightly faster than mine, and I wanted to settle into the iron man shuffle. Lene and Brad finished within minutes of me today, these guys are just awesome, eating up the course, and it’s great to have such markers!!!!!
Roux and Karen, I am not going to complain about pull ups and hand stand walks again!!! I neglected to reply to your comment.
CK – never forget Team Iceland!!! Looking forward to giving you guys the lowdown!!! And so much technical running here, you would have been in your element.
Sandra, keep those vibes coming! Tummy’s still an issue, but overall just need energy and good head!
Daniel-Son – Consultancy services for life for you my friend, looking this good is transcendent.
Craig! So good to hear from you!!! We need to get you back to one of these shindigs!!!!
Des – I would kill for a Pisco Sour!!!!! I am dying without proper coffee, and I think Sours for pack tips????? Sound good?
Angelique – Dory is a super star – love to KikkiB and the units.
Gail – thanks keeping positive today was a big help!!!
Janet – thanks for the post!!! As always you put big smile on my face!
Matt – thanks for the message and strength for the next couple of weeks, I know I have nothing to worry about.
Lastly, and this is where I lose all street cred J but I realised that I am totally lost without my wife, and finishing just means a day closer to you. Love you baby!!
Comments: Total (25) comments
Janet Melidonis
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 08:49 pm
So my friend another long day in the bag, the results are up at last. I am sure you are dreaming coffee and pizza by now. Hope you have an awesome holiday with your lovely B! It has been wonderful to see you creep into 25th place!
Sean Moolman
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 08:15 pm
As I lie here in bed, glass of red wine at the ready I think to myself: "would I trade places"? Not sure but then I am not the man with the legs, the stamina, nor the mental strength to go to the places that you take us to. What an accomplishment! Our thoughts and admiration go with you.
Your Wife
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 07:28 pm
Hey baby, no RTP photos and no blog but stage 5 in the bag! You rock! Been lovin' the songs except Flore-eeeeeuuuuuuwwwww. THREE more sleeps, whoop whoop xxx
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 06:33 pm
Hey Mr Flash - we have eventually got stage 5 updates and you had a brilliant day out - woooohooooo! Now you're lying 25th - crept up 5 places..... Got no blog to read through tonight, but been thinking about you on your 'day off' - hope you had someone to talk crap to and giggle yourself silly with. Thinking of you tomorrow as you take on the last stage - we'll be up in the mountain doing the Fisherman's. Give it horns Andy, enjoy the finish and all it has to offer. Will send another message tomorrow. xxx
Craig Willment
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 06:13 pm
Had to wait all day before being able to check out the big day 5 results...looked like a Good run,well done! Hope you had a good rest day(not too bored,haha) Easy trot to the finish now,awesome race..
Dess Cowie
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 05:33 pm
Do the shuffle...one foot in front of the other hey, thats all it takes. So pleased that the sun is out for you, love those photos of you smiling at the top of the hill......MORE MORE were watching you. Wishing you well for the rest of the race Im off to RAAM so not sure how much Ill be able to post or see, but Ill be thinking of you and sending lots n lots of positive vibes for your epic finish. Well done and congrats on your amazing time Andrew..youre doing awesome Wishing you and Bretta a great re-union and holiday to follow. Enjoy every last bit of it, its tough but eish boet, how privileged are you to be fit n healthy n out there. :-)
Adele Van Litsenborgh
Posted On: 06 Jun 2014 02:12 pm
sounds really tough!! well done for seeing it through!!
John Kennedy
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 07:24 pm
Geez you sound like you are in a great space!! Awesome! From here on just smash it!! One step at a time that is:))
Cheryl Beaton
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 03:13 pm
Hi Andrew, all of us at Woodside are immensely proud to be associated with you! you are doing so great...Gareth says...Hi... and ALL THE BEST...with his huge toothy smile.. all the best for the remainder of the challenge...see you soon xx
Matthew Chaplin
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 02:43 pm
Looking good. They say consistency is the key. Over the hump now. Keep it up. Decent coffee is not far off!!!
Russell Southey
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 01:49 pm
You go Andrew! Keep on pushing...you'll get there.
Julie Buissinne
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 01:09 pm
Wow Andrew - you're doing fantastically ....sounds pretty damn hectic though !!
PS Just remember this is much better than your day job !
Peter James
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 12:49 pm
Very well done so far Andrew. Keep the SA flag flying high!!
Susie Derkins
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 11:39 am
I love how positive you sound despite all the hardships. And that big smile on the photo! Rock on, Scarlet Speedster!
Bretta Espin
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 11:14 am
Andrew Espin from South Africa arrived at Checkpoint 4 at 16:17 and said: "I think I've just had a spiritual experience - that climb was something!" Woohooooo!! Can NOT wait to hear about today, baby!!
Leigh Skibbe
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 10:37 am
This is the BIG one! i have no idea how you do it! Truly inspirational A!! Thinking of you x
Janet Melidonis
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 08:28 am
Hey there Macine Man...
It is almost done and dusted, another one in the bag!
It is so cold here and the rain is just pouring down so don't think you alone in the water. So glad the sun is out and that you have thawed enough to get your legs moving.Looking forward to the coffee and maybe you deserve a slice of cake! Hang in there.
Lise Carswell
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 07:25 am
Am enjoying the photo's B has been posting, it looks beautiful. Good luck with the rest and then....holiday!!!
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 06:30 am
Yay Andy, so happy the sun has come out for you. The pics we saw yesterday had you smiling, looking great and very positive - so keep that going. Today is the big day and you are going to rock it! Just remember "relentless progress forward". Once today is over, it's done and you have been a machine! Can't wait for the de-brief, but first we'll give you a little time with your gorgeous wife. Sending lots of love. xxx CK
wendy hajiloucas
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 06:15 am
Wow fantastic Andrew! Knew you would do us all so proud, good luck with next stage!
Celeste Blake
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 05:50 am
Well done Andrew! Good luck on your next stage...will be thinking of you xoxo
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 04:32 am
You're looking GREAT! Well done! :)
kriss west
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 04:00 am
good to hear that you are in a better space! you are afterall a mountain man!! just keep on shuffling my friend...today is the big shuffle and i will be sending you loads of positive vibes. you are a rockstar!!
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 03:56 am
Keala says Wow(to the horses and sheep). Well done on today. Even Superman needs the sun, so you use it while its there. All the best for the big one. Will be holding thumbs and sending prayer for good conditions. Just think afterwards you can sing " I made it through the wilderness, somehow I made it through..."
Your Wife
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 02:54 am
Well done, my love!! YOU do need sun and I'm so glad u had it! I'm also lost without you <3 <3 <3 Even I can attest for how awful 4km of concrete down is, thanks to you, ha ha! Today is the biggie, I will be thinking of you all day, my honey. 4 more sleeps! x
03 June 2014 12:49 pm (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
So stage three has been shortened today due to ….SNOW! One of our tent mates who is now helping out, met me along the course to say that check point three was covered in snow, and they couldn’t get there to set up the checkpoint…..but wait let me start from the beginning.
I just missed the rain yesterday, and it was miserable – even though it was a beautiful camp next to an icy river, I was so cold!!!! Eventually I got the card board bxes that the water comes in and put it ynder my sleeping mat just for some extra insulation. We had a bit of a group huddle at 19:30 – Chinese dinner time J - and then I went to sleep. Ive developed a bit of a tummy issue and I lay awake listening to the rain – and our tents were starting to get wet – fighting the urge to get up and use the ”loo” – been spoilt for the last two races with the porta-loos – here have the hole in the ground variety – and I could not get up this morning! I just made it to the start line and we started off – I was taking it relatively easy and we started with a big climb, but hold onto your hats folks, it started drizzling and then it started raining and then it was sleet and eventually hail!!! And I was just having NONE of it, I was such a grump!!! By the time I staggered into check point one, 12km and an hour anda half into the stage, I had the first thoughts of “I want to quit”!! I stomped out of checkpoint one watching my two tentmates Brad and Lene hot footing out of there – they are metronomes!!! So I had a quiet talk to myself, well more like “Andrew, let’s get your sh*t together” and I found a pair of legs to run, especially since it was quite rocky and I can run it, I eventually could see the tent mates come into view and I just figured that if I can latch onto their consistency I will be ok. By time I got to checkpoint two, I saw Lene bolt down the hill, andI originally misunderstood what they meant by the stage has been cut short – I still took another gel, only to see camp had been set up in a village – a very welcome site, especially since I bolted in, and headed straight to the toilet!!!
Ok, maybe camp talk is taking over normal polite convo already hahaaa. The good news is that I can still run, my legs feel fine and I just need to put my head back in the game. Gonna try for a good night’4s sleep and hope for the best.
The mountains here are SPECTACULAR! Snow-capped, alpine vistas all around, we could just as easily be in Europe.
Thank you again for all my messages – much much appreciated! Sandra, the body is hanging in there, just tummy and breathing due to the altitude.
Daniel-son, ja ja – just you touch my Oakleys, dude hahahaa – I am hanging in there, it’s all good!!!
Des, I will dedicate some miles for you- there are plenty to go around!
Janet, will save my coffee points for when we meet up back home!!!
TVM – Two minute noodles rock! Thanks for all the messages!
Susie Derkins – hahaa If I had known what was coming I would have saved my comment,
Adele, awesome place to run here, culture is really something to experience.
Andre – yes, they are!
Anthony – love to the girls@
Bee_E love you babe, getting harder and harder to be patient until we meet up!!!
Catch you on the flip side!
Me
I just missed the rain yesterday, and it was miserable – even though it was a beautiful camp next to an icy river, I was so cold!!!! Eventually I got the card board bxes that the water comes in and put it ynder my sleeping mat just for some extra insulation. We had a bit of a group huddle at 19:30 – Chinese dinner time J - and then I went to sleep. Ive developed a bit of a tummy issue and I lay awake listening to the rain – and our tents were starting to get wet – fighting the urge to get up and use the ”loo” – been spoilt for the last two races with the porta-loos – here have the hole in the ground variety – and I could not get up this morning! I just made it to the start line and we started off – I was taking it relatively easy and we started with a big climb, but hold onto your hats folks, it started drizzling and then it started raining and then it was sleet and eventually hail!!! And I was just having NONE of it, I was such a grump!!! By the time I staggered into check point one, 12km and an hour anda half into the stage, I had the first thoughts of “I want to quit”!! I stomped out of checkpoint one watching my two tentmates Brad and Lene hot footing out of there – they are metronomes!!! So I had a quiet talk to myself, well more like “Andrew, let’s get your sh*t together” and I found a pair of legs to run, especially since it was quite rocky and I can run it, I eventually could see the tent mates come into view and I just figured that if I can latch onto their consistency I will be ok. By time I got to checkpoint two, I saw Lene bolt down the hill, andI originally misunderstood what they meant by the stage has been cut short – I still took another gel, only to see camp had been set up in a village – a very welcome site, especially since I bolted in, and headed straight to the toilet!!!
Ok, maybe camp talk is taking over normal polite convo already hahaaa. The good news is that I can still run, my legs feel fine and I just need to put my head back in the game. Gonna try for a good night’4s sleep and hope for the best.
The mountains here are SPECTACULAR! Snow-capped, alpine vistas all around, we could just as easily be in Europe.
Thank you again for all my messages – much much appreciated! Sandra, the body is hanging in there, just tummy and breathing due to the altitude.
Daniel-son, ja ja – just you touch my Oakleys, dude hahahaa – I am hanging in there, it’s all good!!!
Des, I will dedicate some miles for you- there are plenty to go around!
Janet, will save my coffee points for when we meet up back home!!!
TVM – Two minute noodles rock! Thanks for all the messages!
Susie Derkins – hahaa If I had known what was coming I would have saved my comment,
Adele, awesome place to run here, culture is really something to experience.
Andre – yes, they are!
Anthony – love to the girls@
Bee_E love you babe, getting harder and harder to be patient until we meet up!!!
Catch you on the flip side!
Me
Comments: Total (18) comments
Tom Flummerfelt
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 06:50 pm
Keep it up buddy! The thought of cold weather racing makes me cringe a bit...Iceland may have ruined me.
Linda Doke
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 06:24 pm
Rain, sleet and hail?? Makes Iceland sound a walk in a summer park! (Are you the organisers have got the venue for your race correct? haha)
You're a soldier - and a smiling one at that! Keep up the BRILLIANT effort, powerman. You know what to do in the tough times, so Just Do It. Pain is weakness leaving the body, and all that sort of thang ;-) Push through those times, they don't last long and before you know it, you've found your legs and are powering along again. And smiling :-) We're liking the smiley photos, btw, keep making sure there're lotsa those!
Daniel Rowland
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 06:00 pm
Andy keep up the solid work my man. One day at a time and you'll be through another stage-race. With this experience we'll have to race in cold European conditions together soon!!
Craig Willment
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 05:19 pm
Andrew, sounds like really challenging conditions. Keep pushing through like you always do..hope you get over the stomach issue quickly and you will be knocking off those kays! keep it up and good strong thoughts for your long day!
kriss west
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 04:26 pm
no updates at the moment, hope your day was super dude! sal heel dag more aan jou dink!!!! go andrew go!!!!
Sean Moolman
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 12:09 pm
Hey Andrew. Weather here in Cape Town not much better. Thankfully I can lie in a comfortable bed and think of you trudging out there in the cold. Well done and I really do admire you. A walk to the end of the road and back is about all I can manage so your effort in my books is epic. More so, unimaginable. Wishing you a strong pair and a strong mind for tomorrow's.
Des Cowie
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 10:55 am
Andy when I said do some miles for me I didn't mean you had to them
In Cleveland winter miles😊. "Iron rusts Ironman don't " well
Done on the adaption with the boxes ...slimJan.!!!! Seriously though Caryn maybe onto something here. When you said grumpy I could see "the Iceland face"...lol. Hope the sun shines today but you've so got the guts and stamina to do this.
Chris Sandes
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 09:38 am
Can't be pleasant in those conditions but you know all about deserts by now. Still going strong well done and keep kicking ass.
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 09:31 am
Hahahaaa, laughing at you being a "grump" - gosh, could you imagine me...? I don't envy you in the slightest Andy - being cold and wet isn't fun, as we know - damn, beginning to think that perhaps you're the common denominator when it comes to bad weather - best you stay home for Equador... :)
Hang in there my friend, you've come this far and you're going to keep going no matter what the weather or the course throws at you. Get your head in the game (remember on our hill sprint session you told me you had one of those corny songs - so put it on, and put it on loud). You're nearly there and you're doing amazingly well. Go Andy go!!!!
Leigh Skibbe
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 07:21 am
Gosh...so inspiring! Go A Go!!!
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 07:08 am
Brilliant Andrew! Hang on to that stomach!
Weather marginally better here in CT!
Joan Grobler
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 07:07 am
Keep that mind focused now! You can do it! Go Andrew Go !
John Kennedy
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 06:48 am
Go Andy go!! Been away last two days so reading this at airport. Keep the mind strong, the eyes looking forward and the legs will follow!!
kriss west
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 04:55 am
espin!! fok mens, dit klink maar rof daar binne in die Gobi. i can only imagine how cold and miserable it must be. had that same feeling in
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 03:57 am
I love you Uncle Andrew from Keala. My turn now. Sounds amazing and hectic. Admire you for finishing. I know how the mind can make many excuses to stop.Hope you get a good nights rest and all the best for Today.
Keala Espin
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 03:52 am
I love you Uncle Andrew from Keala
Gail Vocat
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 03:32 am
Hi Andrew, Well done, you never cease to amaze me. Love your blog, feel as if we are there with you. Keep positive - yes you can.
Bretta Espin
Posted On: 04 Jun 2014 02:53 am
Oh baby, wow, wow, wow!! Well u are not a DNS and even better not a W, u just keep going my beautiful machine. It is pouring outside but this blog accentuates that there are no excuses, I'm off to gym!! U are amazing, my love! Only 5 more sleeps <3 x
02 June 2014 12:19 pm (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Hi all
Sjoe-wee what a second day! Let me say from the go that today’s stage was easier running from a technical pov but not sure where my legs were, I think they caught the morning flight to Beijing cos they sure weren’t with me today!
No matter, second stage in the bag and the camp we are in is nestled in the most amazing mountains, as we approached the hidden camp – yip you got it – another one of those don’t see it until the last minute deals – you can count five or six peaks each with a different colour, and for the mountain folk back home you would platz!!!!! It wasn’t my finest day, but not too concerned, tomorrow is mountain time and it’s a tough stage! I pretty much ran with Martin from about 10km in, across green fields and ditch after ditch after ditch, lose brick like stone. The scenery was not nearly as great as yesterday but it was still something to behold.
Went through quite a few flocks of sheep, and the shepherds were so friendly!
We are on the border now of china and Borat-country, and I say that because I cannot spelt it correcty, khazykstan ??? and there is a bigger militsry presence!
Camp life is good, our tent gets on well – and we have a rag tag group that does the sitting together thing, Brad (Kiwi), Martin (Denmark), Karl (Austria - and combined his military background we have nicknamed him Tacklebery from “Police Academy”, Krystina (From Norway) and who ever else we find hanging around.
LOVED reading the blogs and emails, I found myself getting very misty eyed!!!! Please keep them coming!!!!
My apologies if I miss anyone out, I just want to tell TeamIceland – you guys would so DOMINATE – best to plan your trip!!! Miss you guys, bloody hell!
To the best packing teacher ever, I have my eye on the goal, you’ve taught me well DanielSon!
Angelique, please give the KikiB a big hug from me!
Joan, I will try to keep the laughs coming! Matt – I am gagging for coffee I haveinstant with me and even that is tasting good!
OB, thanks my mandarin is coming along well!!
Robyn, your adventure is around the corner now and thanks to Andy Bell for the heads up as well!
And to my beautiful wife, get better, love you babes, cant wait to see you!
Signing off, tired but very happy!
Sjoe-wee what a second day! Let me say from the go that today’s stage was easier running from a technical pov but not sure where my legs were, I think they caught the morning flight to Beijing cos they sure weren’t with me today!
No matter, second stage in the bag and the camp we are in is nestled in the most amazing mountains, as we approached the hidden camp – yip you got it – another one of those don’t see it until the last minute deals – you can count five or six peaks each with a different colour, and for the mountain folk back home you would platz!!!!! It wasn’t my finest day, but not too concerned, tomorrow is mountain time and it’s a tough stage! I pretty much ran with Martin from about 10km in, across green fields and ditch after ditch after ditch, lose brick like stone. The scenery was not nearly as great as yesterday but it was still something to behold.
Went through quite a few flocks of sheep, and the shepherds were so friendly!
We are on the border now of china and Borat-country, and I say that because I cannot spelt it correcty, khazykstan ??? and there is a bigger militsry presence!
Camp life is good, our tent gets on well – and we have a rag tag group that does the sitting together thing, Brad (Kiwi), Martin (Denmark), Karl (Austria - and combined his military background we have nicknamed him Tacklebery from “Police Academy”, Krystina (From Norway) and who ever else we find hanging around.
LOVED reading the blogs and emails, I found myself getting very misty eyed!!!! Please keep them coming!!!!
My apologies if I miss anyone out, I just want to tell TeamIceland – you guys would so DOMINATE – best to plan your trip!!! Miss you guys, bloody hell!
To the best packing teacher ever, I have my eye on the goal, you’ve taught me well DanielSon!
Angelique, please give the KikiB a big hug from me!
Joan, I will try to keep the laughs coming! Matt – I am gagging for coffee I haveinstant with me and even that is tasting good!
OB, thanks my mandarin is coming along well!!
Robyn, your adventure is around the corner now and thanks to Andy Bell for the heads up as well!
And to my beautiful wife, get better, love you babes, cant wait to see you!
Signing off, tired but very happy!
Comments: Total (14) comments
Janet Melidonis
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 09:10 pm
Sounds like it is an amazing run... Cannot believe Day 3 is in the bag!Had a chuckle when I read you were drinking instant coffee...Fun times ahead in the mountains!You are doing just fine out there. J
Craig Willment
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 06:33 pm
Enjoying the blog Andrew..
Sounding good there,keep it up! Tried the email,hope it worked.
matthew Chaplin
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 03:06 pm
Well, i just saw the results for stage three!!! You doing well. Picked up a few places from stage 2. Nice work. All going good this side.
Wayne Cowie
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 02:50 pm
Awesome job Andrew, keep up the good work, you kicking Ass.
Des Cowie
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 02:03 pm
Whoooohooo another stage done and some more gorgeous scenery. What are you eating! I\'m intrigued as to how you got your pack so light. looking forward to hearing about \"What\'s in your pack\"! I gather no Pesco. A little ditty for tomorrow :\"Legs don\'t fail me now, get me the finish line\" Enjoy the mountains won\'t be quite Suikerbossie but hope you get to see their beauty too
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 01:58 pm
Hey Andy, awesome day 2 and 3 - I can see the result but no update on your blog as yet, but it seems your legs have returned from their holiday to Beijing... :) Glad that Team Iceland got a mention too, was wondering if your new tenties had taken our place and that all our experiences have been long forgotten... I'll dry my eyes! So excited for you, sounds like it's beautiful out there - just trying to imagine it all and every little step you take. Can't believe tomorrow is already day 4 for you, where has the time gone... Soon you'll be with your lovely and then you'll be back home and we can have a good catch up. Lots of love xxx CK
Lobby Russell
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 01:28 pm
Hi Andrew - you are doing SO well. I feel a bit like a line from Robert Louis Stevenson's poem "Requiem". Home is the sailor, home from the sea,and the hunter home from the hill. Got back on Sunday night after a loooonnnggg 4 days but good fun. Took a tumble on the last night in the dark and buggered up my bionic hand. But all these thing will pass. Vas byt and thinking of you - You seem to be having a ball !!
Lob.
Daniel Rowland
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 11:48 am
Well done getting through another stage. Your legs will come back and you'll be flying by the end of the race. I'm expecting a big move on the long day!
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 11:13 am
Glad Day 2 in the bag. All the best for Stage 3 and the mountians. Just remember to keep on moving, keep on moving. Sorry trying to do my Dory impression but too early and need an instant caffiene shot first. Oh and thanks for the Borat images so early in the morning.
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 09:47 am
Thought of you while I was huffing and puffing up icy Silvermine yesterday-no way could I give up when I thought of what you're busy conquering! Super-hero stuff!
Chris Sandes
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 07:45 am
Great going - 2 stages in the bag. Moving into top 30 today!!Enjoy Chris Sandes
Celeste Blake
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 05:52 am
Well done A! Thinking of you back home :-)
Louise (Brads fiancé )
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 05:37 am
Go tent Donkey! Woohoo! Love hearing that you are all hanging out together :) All the best for the rest of the run Andrew!
Your Wife
Posted On: 03 Jun 2014 02:29 am
Well done, baby, u rock!! Sounds so pretty. 'Today is your day, your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!' - the good doctor.
01 June 2014 12:43 pm (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Ok, so I made day one, the mini long day.
After everything is said and don I till don’t know how to answer what kind of day it was…there were times that I hated life hahahaha andmost of the time I just marvelled at the surroundings, it was truly unique and beautiful, Ghengis Khan country, but I suffered in the end!!! In typical day one fashion the field bolted out and my snack pack in front, which is pretty big, just disgorged its contents due to zipper I didn’t close properly! Oh well, in my Flash shirt (ala Dr Sheldon Cooper) I just did my usual thing. My friend Martin and I ended up running together for most of the day until we got passed with 7km to go and he decided he was having none of that and bolted. Up until that point we had had a great mixture of technical running with a lot of rock fields and quite bit of undulating hills - we even ran with a flock ofsheep at one point.But people, those last 15km ……….. a flat unplowed field that stretched out for about 10km, which in itself doesn’t sound bad, but they had very deep irrigation ditches tht we had to climb down and then up every 200 meters, which meant you could not get into a rhythm of any kind – at the end of the field another two kilometres around a compound, with a stop when the locals asked me to take a photo with th3ir daughter hahaha
And then in the last “are you f***** kidding me moment” an up and up and and finally caught sight of camp – on the otherside ofna river bed then we had to climb down into and subsequently out of and by that time I was just like “I have run enough!!!!” and walked into camp. 50km in the bag.
Body doing ok, energy levels were not great and I have plit my tights in the crotch, so I might have to switch to my JTs.
Thanks for all the messages and hopfully tomorrow will go well!!!!
Love to all back home.
And to my sweet girl, love you my angel.
J
After everything is said and don I till don’t know how to answer what kind of day it was…there were times that I hated life hahahaha andmost of the time I just marvelled at the surroundings, it was truly unique and beautiful, Ghengis Khan country, but I suffered in the end!!! In typical day one fashion the field bolted out and my snack pack in front, which is pretty big, just disgorged its contents due to zipper I didn’t close properly! Oh well, in my Flash shirt (ala Dr Sheldon Cooper) I just did my usual thing. My friend Martin and I ended up running together for most of the day until we got passed with 7km to go and he decided he was having none of that and bolted. Up until that point we had had a great mixture of technical running with a lot of rock fields and quite bit of undulating hills - we even ran with a flock ofsheep at one point.But people, those last 15km ……….. a flat unplowed field that stretched out for about 10km, which in itself doesn’t sound bad, but they had very deep irrigation ditches tht we had to climb down and then up every 200 meters, which meant you could not get into a rhythm of any kind – at the end of the field another two kilometres around a compound, with a stop when the locals asked me to take a photo with th3ir daughter hahaha
And then in the last “are you f***** kidding me moment” an up and up and and finally caught sight of camp – on the otherside ofna river bed then we had to climb down into and subsequently out of and by that time I was just like “I have run enough!!!!” and walked into camp. 50km in the bag.
Body doing ok, energy levels were not great and I have plit my tights in the crotch, so I might have to switch to my JTs.
Thanks for all the messages and hopfully tomorrow will go well!!!!
Love to all back home.
And to my sweet girl, love you my angel.
J
Comments: Total (17) comments
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 06:59 pm
Hey Andy, nice to read your banter - and of course there was the dilemma of your pants and pack... hahaa, you make me laugh. Thinking of you every day and keep pushing through. Two days down already!
kriss west
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 05:12 pm
espin!!!! you bloody rockstar!! it sounds tough...but i think you are having the time of your life. i,ve been country hopping for the past few days...that is why i only write you now.
staan sterk my vriend. cp to cp!! you know the drill. been thinking of you the whole day!! good luck fot tomorrow. timo alao sends his regards. go espin go!!!
Susie Derkins
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 01:38 pm
"Andrew Espin, a data analyst in South Africa and 4 Deserts veteran voted the early sections of todays course in his Top 10 of best places to run."
Woohoo!
Susie Derkins
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 01:36 pm
Well done, Andrew! It's great to hear you sound so motivated. What is on the playlist?
Andre Avenant
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 01:20 pm
Well done Andrew!!! Just remember: just keep running, just keep running...
Is that a new pair of sunglasses again?
Adele Van Litsenborgh
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 12:28 pm
sounds like a tough first day but you made it - WELL DONE!! very proud of you, your determination is an inspiration :)
Leigh Skibbe
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 08:46 am
Good Luck A!!!
matt Chaplin
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 08:14 am
Awesome work Andrew. Hope things are going well today.
Bretta Espin
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 07:56 am
Entry fees slash school fees, ha ha! Sadly, we are not allowed to eat 2 minute noodles at home :( Ps. Baby, was the wolf that was spotted you....?
tracy van Maaren
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 07:51 am
Worked through site of 4 deserts...why do u need a mirror? Safety pins? Saw entry fee's - phew!
Tracy Van Maaren
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 07:36 am
Woohoo, go ANDREW! Love reading your blog about the run and what you are experiencing and seeing. Was agahst to hear you eat 2-minute-noodles when had dinner with Bretta on Friday evening - guess they are light to carry eh? Hope rain has held off (not here!) as Bretta says you prefer the heat :) Going to google the strange places you are visting so I have a better idea of exactly where you are in this giant world. Thinking of you running like mad - you must be half way into 2nd day, RUN! FOREST! RUN! Safe running TvM
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 05:54 am
Funny as always! You can achieve anything if you keep your sense of humour!
Well done!
Joan Grobler
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 05:48 am
Just read your post and boy that is funny, sure made my Monday morning :) Good luck for the next stage Mr. Celebrity
O'B Barber
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 05:00 am
Hi Andrew,
Haaaa Ying... AAAA Chung dong!!... Wee long tong feee wong! AAAH chu. BEEE ying tung fong!!
That's my best stab at good luck, stay safe and strong, run well and have loads of great experiences. Thanks for the updates. You missing nothing in cold wet Cape Town.
O'B
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 03:36 am
Bazinga what a first day! Glad u got it done and body okay. Sad about the pants and pack.All send their love.
Your Wife
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 03:02 am
Well done, baby!! Wow, the unploughed field sounds hectic. Darn to the sexy tights....u are such a naana. U are SO not Sheldon, Barry Allen all the way, dude!! ;o) x <3
Daniel Rowland
Posted On: 02 Jun 2014 01:23 am
Awesome Andy - keep up the good work buddy. Hahaha - you split your shorts and dropped your snack pack, not pro my man... You'll have to up your game in the next few days :) Stay strong.
01 June 2014 10:48 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
So we are at the first camp – and an interesting camp at best! Because of the storm last night they decided to put us up in some block houses each “tent” is basically a concrete block that we are sleeping in tonight zs they have forecast more strong winds and rain tonight!Feeling good at the moment and looking forward to starting – they have changed the format bit and lengthened day one to bout 50km – nervous especially as they have forecast rain tomorrow. As usual have met up with great people which has been a great help spending time in Bole – we have done the supermarket walk quite a few times, an eclectic bunch for sure! The language barrier has been tremendous and ordering food is based on whether the menu has pictures and we can discern what is in the photos. The supermarket yesterday had a baby crocodile on ice which I thought was hilarious – but aside from the lack of coffee, the food has been pretty tasty.
Got quite a few questions about Woodside today when we left for camp one in my camp shirt. For some reason have also gotten quite a few almost negative questions about South Africa, which is the first time that has happened – but have tried to answer as best as I can.
I have my lightest pack for RTP ever at check in – 7.5kg (thank you Daniel for re-teaching pack basics) – transferred some of the stuff to the front pack for tomorrow to redistribute weight.
Lucy, Alaska sounds amazing, but you’re right – I am probably warmer!!!
Des, will miss the quiet running, and Eric, photo slide for sure!
Sean, Joan and Julie – your messages and support are much appreciated, please keep them coming.
Next blog post will hopefully be after a decent 50km tucked under the belt – the ground is rocky and I cannot wait to test it out.Love to all back home.
And lastly, the my HAWT wife back home, ticking down the days, cannot wait!
Andrew
Comments: Total (10) comments
Sue Barber
Posted On: 05 Jun 2014 03:40 pm
hi andrew got s buggared omputer the cat sat on it so typing is a pain not sure whats up! feel so bad that i am only reading your blog today but please knos that i am thinking of you everyday and hear on fb how you are going! keep going and stay focused not long now and bee will be with you.
we all send loads of love from a seriously cold ct lots love to you sue xxxxx
Karen & Roux Gosling & Coetzee
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 07:51 pm
Awesome run today. Get some good rest tonight, tomorrow is another exciting day. We cant wait to hear how the run went. Thinking of you ;)
Matt Chaplin
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 01:39 pm
Hope you get coffee. Good luck for stage one.
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 12:02 pm
Hoping the day's 60km went well and that the storm subsided last night.Can't wait to read the days blog.
Caryn Kennedy
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 08:37 am
Hey Andy, been thinking of you all day and look forward to seeing the results of your first day and reading up on how it went for you. Watching Comrades today too and wishing I was out there with you experiencing the awesomeness of it all. Keep going and remember the counting technique you taught me years ago when going up the hills... :) Sending lots of love and happy thoughts. xxx
Andrew Bell
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 07:33 am
Hi Andrew heard about your latest adventure from RR. Good luck and look forward to hearing and seeing the pictures when you return. Kind regards Andrew Bell
Robyn Richter
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 06:36 am
What a fantastic light pack-well done! But NO COFFEE-EEEEK!
Hope day 1 is awesome!
Sterkte!
Karen & Roux Gosling & Coetzee
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 06:33 am
Heya Andrew
We are thinking of you today as you start an amazing race ;) looking forward to hearing how the first 50km. Take it easy and enjoy this amazing experience. Chat soon. Karen and Roux xx
John Kennedy
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 05:59 am
Andy hopefully by the time you read this day 1 and 50kms under the belt!! Here's also hoping it was a good day! Must be honest would love to be out there but as I write this am currently nicely tucked in...so maybe easier said thn done :)
Look forward to your updates and wishing you a magic run, each and every ' bite sized' checkpoint to checkpoint!
JK
Your Wife
Posted On: 01 Jun 2014 04:50 am
Flash! Aha! Heh. Hope u had a great first day, my honey. Wishing U lots of sunshine x <3
30 April 2014 10:31 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi
Just a quick note - mostly to test the blog, but tomorrow is a month until kick off.
Looking forward to meeting everyone and getting to the start.
The running part....that makes me nervous. hahahaha
Comments: Total (7) comments
Angelique Espin
Posted On: 31 May 2014 05:06 pm
All the best, have a blast and run like a gazelle. Will be keeping tabs on you through out.
Sean Moolman
Posted On: 30 May 2014 04:41 pm
Andrew. sorry for not wishing you before you left and wishing you a Happy Anniversary. Strength and focus on the first day of your run. thinking of you
Joan Grobler
Posted On: 30 May 2014 11:59 am
Hi Andrew, Wishing you good fortune on your journey over the next few days.
Julie Buissinne
Posted On: 26 May 2014 06:40 pm
Go Andrew - !! We'll be keeping tabs on your progress !
Russell Southey
Posted On: 26 May 2014 04:27 pm
All the best Andrew! We'll be following your progress and sending loads of courage and power to you on your journey. Go Andrew Go!
Bretta Espin
Posted On: 12 May 2014 10:22 am
You're ready, my honey!!
Sam Fanshawe
Posted On: 30 Apr 2014 04:41 pm
You're a pro - you'll rock it!
Comments: Total (2) comments
Alina P
Posted On: 08 Jun 2014 10:22 am
Your Wife
Posted On: 08 Jun 2014 09:39 am