Adventure - Getting to the Start Line ... is The Hardest Part

Is hard to believe a week a has gone by since the last posting. It's been said that getting to the start line is usually one of the busiest and most difficult part of any race or adventure.

This is certainly an adventure, as well as the prep for '70 Wild Miles' I am of course packing for a two week trip to Scotland, the Hebrides and The Hebridean Challenge. http://www.hebrideanchallenge.com/ so there is a lot of gear and planning to be done, and it's amazing where the time disappears to. There has been more time spent with bikes, bike racks and roof racks in the past week then time actually training. Coupled to that, I've been watching The An Turas race unfold in South Western Ireland and just recieved the route for The Heb. It may be a late night of map marking tonight or tomorrow.

Adventure has been defined as having three key elements; firstly, a 'realistic objective'. Secondly, 'uncertainty of outcome, and thirdly, 'good companionship'. I've held onto these three things for over twenty years, since I first heard of them from a very wise old man* and while the first two usually prompt interesting debate, the third intrigues me the most. I've done a few epic Team Adventure Races and 'good companionship' shines through as a fundamental memory. Paired mountain marathons and involvement in such things as Bob Graham Rounds and other ultra events give rewarding memories, too. But what about solo events? I challenged this notion main years ago as a young man, and it took me a while to appreciate the meaning of this. I was told, by the wise old man's student, ('cos they wrote thesis on it!) that solo trips count .... My 'solo' Heb Challenge was certainly an adventure, and other solo runs, too, but having my partner Lindsey support me through out was an excellent privilege. Savouring the last few miles of that race was magical.

In the next two weeks, I will be 'racing solo' on Saturday, enjoying a few days holiday with Lindsey, then racing as a pretty strong and competitive 'pair' with Wilko. Added to that Geraldine will be joining us for the second week; no doubt 'lubricating' the proceedings with her humour, charm and mellow beauty. What might happen.....? Who knows but we are off for an adventure, with good companionship. And having great fun. I hope those out in Southern Ireland will be do so, as well.

I may find the time (and technology) to write one or two blog postings after '70 Wild Miles', if only to let you know I haven't drowned. Thanks again for your donations to the charity. Perhaps, once I've completed the event a few more pounds will be deposited.

Please keep supporting me.... pass this onto more friends and colleagues.

*The Wise Old Man's Student was called Duncan - and his tutor, Colin Mortlock.