The Vodafone group were waiting for me and despite me still feeling delicate [Joy: that's my paraphrasing], we set off. I had in mind that I'd see how far I could get and if I needed to abandon part way, so be it but I was certainly not going to give up without a fight.
The group made good time and kept up a pretty fast pace despite us having decided to take it easy today.
We hit a big hill after about 20 miles and it was clear I wasn't performing well.
At the pit stop, I suggested they go on without me as there was not way I was going to be able to take my turn at the front. The group however insisted I stick with them, no need to lead, and they helped me to the end.
Tomorrow we start early again, setting from 06:00, so the group plans to leave at 06:30. We're expecting a headwind so I'm definitely best off sticking with the group.
Something missing from yesterday's blog was mention of a little school we passed on the ride whose children were out waiting for us to pass as they tried to raise money for a school trip by selling postcards.
The children had painted the postcard designs themselves and were selling them for £2.00 each. 'That includes the stamp' they said ;-)
Of course my problem was not just the stamp, but that I couldn't carry or post it either but, 'No need to worry,' the children said, 'We post them for you too!' How could I refuse?!
Guess what turned up at home this morning?
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has texted and emailed me with lovely messages over this last week, I'm afraid I just don't have time to reply right now.
Day 8 Stats
Start: Fort William
Finish: Kyle of Sutherland
Distance: 112 miles
Climbing: 1,734 metres
Average speed: 14.9 mph
Duration: 7 hours, 31 minutes
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