They had been dreading this bit...The cycling team met a man in Enniskerry who directed them to a short and scenic route accross the mountains, "...but, boys, it's phorkin steep," he warned them. And it was; a really, really steep hill, where some of the lads had to get off and push their bikes up the road through spectacular snow-capped scenery. Indeed, at the top (where the photo was taken at a place called Sally Gap) the road had been closed to vehicles only the previous day, and the bikes had to make their way along tracks cut through the snow by car tyres. This lasted for only a short while, and everydone did so well to make it up there and through the conditions.
Al and Martin then went ahead to Rathdrum, to the raffish, friendly camp site where, by now expert (Al, at any rate) they proceeded to begin erecting the tents as the rain started to set in. Before they expcted it, the team arrived, complaining loudly about the supprt team's inability to get things ready in time. How did they get there so fast? Well, by doing speeds of up to 42 miles an hour down the other side of the mountain, of course. Seriously scary stuff.
Al and Martin's overnight stay is at a hostelry called Jacob's Well, a real contrast to the previous evenings accommodation. This was well appointed, clean, comfortable and friendly, so everyone had their dinner there. The food was excellent, all home-cooked and the portions so vast that it was felt neccessary to take a photograph of the enormity of Ben's steak. This will be published in due course. The Jacob's Well hosts have also donated 10 Euros to the fund.
The chaps are stiff and sore; there is much wincing as they get up or down or move around. However, no doubt the healing properties of the first pints of Irish Guiness will work through their systems overnight.
This marks the half way mark of the venture. Tomorrow they'll be heading for Wexford; Col thinks this will be a moderately tough day. Then it's Youghal (another tough one), then an easier final day (it is planned) that will see them arrive in Cork.
Well done Team Minogue. We are so proud of you.
Greetings from Sue, Ruth, Jonny, Jack and Eddie. Sat here drinking cava (having donated our champagne funds to Nick's memorial!) and eating chocolate. Thinking of you all and the rain and the chaffed thighs and the misery (aka camping). Oh and the karoake spectaculare! About to tuck into our Easter dinner so will raise a glass or two to Nick's memory and to Team Minogue. Wishing you all well and loving the stories of small kindnesses and generosity that your road trip is providing. We think you could give The Calendar Girls a run for their money! The luck of the Irish to you xxxx
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