He did it!
A final post before I hand blogging duties back to the boss…
The last few stages were hard – Sally Ozanne’s presence was appreciated for Gillerthwaite to Ennerdale, then the legendary Ant Cooper was back once more to the end.
Lisa has been there every step of the way since joining at Shap, with even less sleep than James – and not a word of complaint from any of them (except the odd, foot-care related grimace).
The final climb over Longbarrow was a definite dread, and it’s completion rewarded by lukewarm pizza – and a couple who found him on facebook & waited ’til after midnight to meet him, hand over a cheque & encourage him on.
That final leg, from Sandwith to St Bees involved concern about the proximity of the cliffs on the left, a 2min sleep…. and a final run at serious pace to complete the challenge within 4 days – James’ personal target. Some tears, hugs & handshakes before a little dip of those demolished Hoka’s (& surprisingly well preserved feet) in the sea at the west.
All asleep now; no doubt he’ll be back with some thoughts…. (“never again” has already been heard….). I’m getting speechless – it’s been inspiring.
Thanks for your company & your support.
Charlotte
