The forecast for the start of May is improving. No more excuses, we are off 8am on 3rd May.
With just a handful of days before Geoff and I set off, for the first time we both feel we are almost ready. Whilst we have spoken about this trip for a few years now, preparations and training didn’t start in earnest until January this year. We have covered more miles in training both on the water and on ergometers than we have for previous expeditions and, as perhaps a sign of our aging bodies, more time with physios and chiropractors too!
There have been, and still are, mixed emotions. We are looking forward to the adventures ahead, the wildlife, the scenery, meeting people along the way and hearing their stories. But we are also under no illusion how tough a challenge this will be for us both. Four months is a long time to sit in a kayak and live in a tent. It’s an even longer time to be away from home and family. As I lie here in bed writing this post, I genuinely don’t know whether we will complete it. But then it wouldn’t be the challenge it is if we did. As news of our trip starts to spread, it has all become very real. No turning back now!
We are using the same boats we had round Ireland in 2015, Kirton C-Trek 18s, but we have spent a lot of time and effort making sure they are in the best shape before we set off. Geoff’s living room floor, and my bedroom floor, have become expedition kit rooms as we assemble what we might need over the next four months. We are now starting to pack everything in dry bags ready to load the boats on Friday morning before we set off. Tanya is horrified at how little we take in the way of clothes for 4 months – although Geoff assures me that he has double the pairs of pants he is taking this time, to 4.
Our boats weigh around 26kgs empty and between 65-70kgs when full of kit food and water. Although, if I can sneak some of my kit into Geoff’s boat while he isn’t looking I’m hoping the carry a lot less!
Thank you to those who have very generously donated to our three charities already! Every £ donated gives Geoff and I another reason why we have to complete this challenge. So far you have given us 700 reasons. Thank you!
Good luck with the journey. We caught up with you in Arran in 2012 and guess what we will be in Arran on 24th May so maybe catch sight of you. We will be tracking you closely.
Regards Paul & Sue
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good luck boys xx