Truro to Lands End
Saturday 6th June 2009
Well the day had finally arrived. Barring any unforeseen mishaps, we were about to complete our marathon adventure. Even though today's stage was only 32 miles, I think that we all felt a little bit nervous and perhaps a little sad that this 'thing' was coming to an end.
In view of the shorter distance today and the fact that we had family and friends arriving at Land's End for midday, we decided to have a delayed start at 10am. For the first time since stage three, we had a little bit of rain to contend with - can't complain though, the weather on the whole has been fantastic and we've all got great 'cyclists' sun tans.
The good news was that Paul was rejoining us and riding today and Phil was still battling through the pain barrier. Jewey had driven down to us early this morning to ease back into his support role, so it was just like old times having the A-Team back for the final day!
We agreed that we were going to ride into Land's End together as a group. Just to show how good Jewey is, he'd only arranged some blue sky and sunshine by the time we had reached the 5 miles to go sign. Those last 5 miles were amazing. We were all like little kids. It was difficult to take in what we had done over the past 12 days.
Then, all of a sudden, Land's End was in sight. As we rolled in, we were given an unbelievable reception by our supporters - it is something that we will never forget. Champagne was being sprayed everywhere and there were hugs, kisses and handshakes all round - a totally emotional experience. Then it was on to the famous Land's End signpost for our photos (see photos page - Day 12).
We then traveled up to Newquay, for a quick shower and headed on to 'Lusty Glaze' for our private beach party. Gilly Golesworthy had come along to talk about the help that Children's Hospices give from her personal experiences with her own daughter - it was very moving listening to Gilly and perfectly helped to reinforce the importance of our fundraising efforts. Thanks for coming Gilly, it was great to meet and listen to you.
There was a fantastic BBQ and a few cold beers waiting. As we were in surf country, we took the opportunity for a quick swim in the sea. Lee then decided to get a couple of rounds of shots for everyone. It was after this (and because of this) that I sustained my first injury of the whole trip when I fell up some steps and hurt my knee!!
It really was the perfect evening to sit outside overlooking the beach and to re-live what had gone on during the previous two weeks. We then continued our party back at the Kilbirnie Hotel, where amongst other things, we played pool, composed a song and played 'ladders' on the dance floor. It all got a bit mad - great fun though (even the bar staff were in hysterics!). I retired at 1.15am, conscious that people would be expecting me to update the website before I went to bed.
Looking back, the memories and experiences we have all gained from this will live very strong in our minds for a long, long time. Two weeks ago, we didn't all know each other. Two weeks on, strong friendships and bonds have been made that will last forever. 936 miles of memories and endless stories to tell. As everyone was dispersing from Land's End, i found myself sat on my own in the passenger seat of my car eating a sandwich, reflecting on what had just happened. I looked to my right and saw Tets sat there the same in his car. We just smiled at each other and nodded - no words were needed.
Of the nine core riders, over the whole 936 miles, I was the only one who didn't get a flat at all - lucky Saint Michaels really do work!!
Mark
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