Challenge Start
Challenge Start
Eurotandem All Go
The boys received a hearty send off at Nordkapp from the centre managers and a cruise ship group, despite the bracing Arctic winds and driving rain at Europe’s most northerly point. A tricky start across windy mountainous roads, with icy corners and terrifying unfenced sheer drops. Dopey herds of reindeer didn’t make the task easier by loitering on the roads (obviously they don’t understand the importance of a world record attempt!)
The boys’ enthusiasm kept them going throughout all of the above obstacles until a never-ending (well 6km) undersea tunnel threatened to chill them to the bone & dampen their spirits. The support crew caught up with the boys just after the tunnel and swiftly bundled them into the van to force-feed their blue lips with pasta salad and as many sugary snacks (thanks Dhammi!) as possible.
Left unsupervised for the afternoon, the boys took an impromptu Arctic nap by the side of the E69 (note this team sleep - does Gi now qualify?), waking up slightly bewildered half an hour later. Wiping the sleep from their eyes the boys pressed on, only to be over-taken, twice, by a pair of geriatric cyclists. Tough push to the finish, along more hilly terrain with the weather turning even more bitter.
Support “Mums” Em & Soph picked up the pieces, providing hot food, protein shakes and very sympathetic ears. No one had any trouble sleeping through the 24 hour sunlight - we’ve finally found a way to get Gi to sleep!
Monday, 30 May 2011 - 8.10am