Well, that was a killer day. 95K - over 60 miles - in a little under 13 hours. Rain at the start, then lots of sun, then heavy rain and hail to finish off the day. I've learned to never hand over my Goretex at aid stations just because the sky is currently blue.
There are some very tired people in the gym tonight - and that doesn't include the slower runners who are still out on the road. The scenery is very fine here, and traffic much reduced. Despite that, there are some very long, straight grinds along the E45 - miles long at times - which are hard on the brain.
We saw more reindeer today. I will take my camera phone tomorrow, as we cross the Arctic Circle about 10K before the finish, and I want to record the moment. Hopefully I'll get to snap some reindeer too. I used mosquito repellent for the first time today, as they're just coming to life big time.
So twelve days to go - five more in Sweden, one in Finland, then six in Norway to the finish. Even though I'm desperately weary, and my feet are tenderized and sore beyond belief, my chances of making it to the North Cape improve with each passing day. Thanks again for all the support and good wishes - it has motivated me, and made a huge difference.
12 comments:
I met a German guy in Sri Lanka many years ago who swore that the best way to ward off mosquitoes is to drink copious amounts of whisky.
The practical application of this remedy at this stage of your race is, however, dubious.
KBO (per Churchill)
Cheers,
Stuart
wow! good on ya, Russ!
Way to keep knocking them down.
Got an idea. I'll copy some news for ya.
Potential Austin budget cuts add up to $45 million
Possible budget cuts include closing seven city pools, canceling an Austin Police Department cadet class and cutting back on library hours, just to name a few.
also, General Motors filed for Bankruptcy a couple weeks ago. Has already sold off Hummer to a chinese company, Saturn to Roger Penske the race car guy, and is looking to sell off Saab and a couple of others too.
In related news, Chrysler may get bought by Italian Fiat.
Not sure if you follow soccer... Barcelona outclassed Man U to win the Champions league final, and Kaka the great midfielder from Milan has signed with Real Madrid in a record transfer fee of 65'ish million pounds.
Tiger came back from 4 down to win this past weekend, by 1 or 2 strokes. While everyone cratered in the last few holes, he stuck 17 to about 15 feet and 18th hole he knocked it dead to about 3 feet from about 150 out. Birdied both holes.
Roger Federer won the french open and now has the full grand slam. first since agassi in 1999 to achieve that.
there you go. some new thoughts to pop into your head.
looks like warm weather tomorrow. Hope that insect repellant face mask comes in handy!
You are like a living super hero Russ! You continue to wow me with each stage you complete and you also seem in great spirits! Enjoy the journey ;-)
Those tender toes are going to require a major pedicure upon your return. I suggest a generous tip and a warm smile if she has not passed out.
P&B
Killer day indeed!! Wow.
You just keep on, keeping on Russ and you'll get there. You are doing it every day. Stay strong.
Everyone here in Austin is so very proud of you. You are an often topic of conversation. All are impressed by your enduring spirit.
Get some rest, get some food, and get yourself one day closer to the finish.
Thanks for the daily updates. We love them.
Take care.
Chuck
Russ, you will be the coolest Granddad ever with pictures of actual Reindeer! I only wish we had thought of making you a red suit to wear on this leg of your journey. Next time - ha!
I'll also be happy to contribute to the "fattening up" party upon your return. I make a mean chocolate chip cookie...
-Degner
Wow Russ, only 12 days to go. It only seems like yesterday that we were all sitting here having a roast. Really looking forward to seeing you and celebrating with you!
Just to let you know one of your biggest fans is your Granddaughter, when we ask where Grandpa is she says “Ampa gone running like this” then she runs around the living room.
Take care mate and keep it up!
Oli
PS – Benjamin is so close to crawling now and he has promised to perfect it by the time you see him.
Go Russ! Thinking happy feet thoughts for you!
I'm scratching just thinking about those mosquitos. Good luck, hoping those blood suckers don't like the taste of you.
June
Way to go, Russ!! If one of those reindeer has a red nose, you might have gone too far. :) Keep up the great work!
Hi Russ!
You made it through a long tough day. That day in itself would be reason to be proud and then you add the 51 days before it and it's incredible.
Each day you prove that there's no such thing as impossible.
We're all following your journey and cheering you on. You're our hero.
Keep up the great work!
Helen
Russell - you are awesome! I love your easy-going, rock-solid determination. The finish line is almost in sight -- keep up the great race!
~ Jenni Gilmer
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