Gordon says ...
Well, this isn't how things were planned but so be it.
I looks like we're going to go our separate ways - at least for the while. It has become very clear to me that the distances we are attempting each day are utterly unrealistic - given the terrain, and the weight of the bikes - we are currently averaging 12-13 kms/hour and today was supposed to be a 185 km day - you do the maths. It's nearly 4.30, we've been cycling since 5.30 in the morning, and there's still 5 hours of peddling to go, not counting rests. I just don't think 30 more days of that is do-able. Nigel disagrees, and wants to continue with the current schedule. I guess I wanted an adventure - not an ordeal.
I have suggested that we modify our targets and cycle 100 kms per day, (and ask for an extra week's leave), or if we can't get the leave, finish our ride in Townsville or Cairns. Understandably, given he's come half way around the world, Nigel wants to try and press on. If it doesn't work, he will wait for me further up the track.
I'm going to keep going doing 100 kms per day and still hopefully making it. It's only fair I'm giving Nigel the laptop. Hopefully I'll see him in a couple of days.
Nigl says....Today has been a difficult and testing day for us both physically and mentally. The distance between Orbost and Eden is 185 kms (116 miles) The terrain was much more demanding than anticipated and took us much longer to travel across, but it was always going to be one of the most difficult days. There were plenty of morale sapping false summits and some very big hills. There is not much else down here to give many alternatives to the plan which also didn't help the situation. Gordon and I discussed what those options might be, but the option of me taking more time off is a non starter. I have been planning for two years on reaching the Cape and I still believe it can be achieved, although I accept, and have always accepted, it will not be easy. People have sponsored me and are supporting me on this basis, so I feel it is important for me to continue. I am also enjoying myself in a perverse sort of way and thrive on the challenge presented. This was a difficult decision for both of us. I would far rather be completing this challenge with my mate Gordon than by myself, but equally I think it is important to be true to oneself.
Tomorrow I will press on towards Sydney.
Well, this isn't how things were planned but so be it.
I looks like we're going to go our separate ways - at least for the while. It has become very clear to me that the distances we are attempting each day are utterly unrealistic - given the terrain, and the weight of the bikes - we are currently averaging 12-13 kms/hour and today was supposed to be a 185 km day - you do the maths. It's nearly 4.30, we've been cycling since 5.30 in the morning, and there's still 5 hours of peddling to go, not counting rests. I just don't think 30 more days of that is do-able. Nigel disagrees, and wants to continue with the current schedule. I guess I wanted an adventure - not an ordeal.
I have suggested that we modify our targets and cycle 100 kms per day, (and ask for an extra week's leave), or if we can't get the leave, finish our ride in Townsville or Cairns. Understandably, given he's come half way around the world, Nigel wants to try and press on. If it doesn't work, he will wait for me further up the track.
I'm going to keep going doing 100 kms per day and still hopefully making it. It's only fair I'm giving Nigel the laptop. Hopefully I'll see him in a couple of days.
Nigl says....Today has been a difficult and testing day for us both physically and mentally. The distance between Orbost and Eden is 185 kms (116 miles) The terrain was much more demanding than anticipated and took us much longer to travel across, but it was always going to be one of the most difficult days. There were plenty of morale sapping false summits and some very big hills. There is not much else down here to give many alternatives to the plan which also didn't help the situation. Gordon and I discussed what those options might be, but the option of me taking more time off is a non starter. I have been planning for two years on reaching the Cape and I still believe it can be achieved, although I accept, and have always accepted, it will not be easy. People have sponsored me and are supporting me on this basis, so I feel it is important for me to continue. I am also enjoying myself in a perverse sort of way and thrive on the challenge presented. This was a difficult decision for both of us. I would far rather be completing this challenge with my mate Gordon than by myself, but equally I think it is important to be true to oneself.
Tomorrow I will press on towards Sydney.
Good luck Gordon and Nigel. I'm sure you'll prevail. Here's to your health and your friendship. DM
ReplyDeleteGordon, strip your bike down and freight the panier set to Gosford. Do the next few days lighter and catch Nigel up. Start at 5.30 am and don't stop for 3-4 hours, (80km). Eat on the bike every 45 mins and you will have caught him by 1-2 days. Then you can re-assess weight issues and your schedule will be intact.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Anthony.
I have no doubt you will both get to where you want to go, but Nigel, this is a once in a lifetime trip; do try and enjoy it! Take the adventure, I am quite sure we will all continue to support you and your charity, even if you take a week longer. And what is a week in the grand scheme of things?!
ReplyDeleteGordon - you don't need to do the whole filthy pig thing, but perhaps it's time to strip back to the essentials?!
Here's to you both, your blisters, your padding and your friendship. Stick with it together, it will be much more fun and you'll probably need each other.
sarah
Hi guys,
ReplyDeleteI hope you read our posts before you set off again... Anthony's advice is sound - I'm not a cyclist, but it makes sense to me. Stick together lads....we will support you regardless of how long it takes.
What you are doing is wonderful - don't lose sight of that.
Love to you both,
Nikki xxx
Hi guys after all our partying thought it was about time to catch up! Lou had a great birthday/s!Can see you have had a challenging day and on a journey like yours you are bound to have good and less good days! Just remember your family and friends are all supporting you and we are sure you will work it out. The sat system is working so hope you both make the progress you want. Hang in there Nigel from Jane and John. xfrom Janey
ReplyDeleteHi Gents. Stick with it. Sounds like there's some sensible stuff being said. Would be the best if you can get back together, but whatever happens it's still a big deal and a great adventure. If you only get to change your shreddies at the end, so what..
ReplyDeleteWe is all rooting for you here.
Humpo.