Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Stage 11 to Navarrenx

Today's stage can be divided conveniently into thirds.

The first third comprised very cold temperatures, driving heavy rain, gale force gusts of wind, and of course the by now customary rivers of mud. Without risk of hyperbole, it was misery.

The second third was heralded by a brief appearance of the sun. Patrick had thoughtfully laid on pizza at the aid stations, and many wonderful slices were consumed to restore warmth and energy.

The final third was miserable for me for a whole new reason - blisters! They had started yesterday, due to some foot swelling aggravated by constant moisture and mud. The best I could do for the final 8 miles was to limp along with my new best friends, my ski poles. (The best 39 euros I ever spent!)

Hopefully I'll be able to sort out these issues overnight, and be able to limp to tomorrow's finish line in St Jean Pied-de-Port still in seventh place. After the struggle which was today, I'm ready to be done. But still, it has been a wonderful and unforgettable experience with fine runners and benevoles.



Location:Avenue de France,Navarrenx,France

3 comments:

Claire said...

Oh NO the dreaded blisters!!! Well at least you are a wiz at caring for them. Glad the poles are working for you. One more day...just one more day!

camgage said...

I have followed your journey from afar and as usual...I am AMAZED! You are my idol and hero, keep it up my friend.

Christian Marti said...

Just remember the fat feet at Deutschlandlauf - you did overcome them and finished in style! One to go!