It’s all about the kit!

Well, so I’ve been told…the top 5 kit items whose importance can not be overstated is…

1.       The boots (gortex, leather, ankle support, hooks for gators, what type of sole)
2.       The socks (not cotton, always wool, long and many pairs)
3.       Sleeping bag (arctic, super light, with hood or without, silk lining)
4.       Day pack (max 5kgs, pockets, 2 buckles – chest and waist, back padding)
5.       Main pack (max 12kgs as above)

After reading through the above, and the additional information I’ve received from the BHF this week regarding trip preparations, it sounds like the ultimate endurance version of Buckaroo!

One thing I can check off the list is boots. I bought my first pair last week and will be taking them out, with ‘L plates’, this weekend.  Not sure if these will be the Kili trip boots, but they are certainly more than good enough to train in for a few months.  A bigger shopping trip with Cotswolds Stores will be taking place late spring early summer.  Apparently I need poles too (to walk with), should be interesting. Don’t know about you but I’m picturing Bridget Jones right now, I know I won’t be skiing but it’s just the poles. All the gear and no idea! I’m sure this too will change as the weeks pass.



Stepping up the pace

What have I noticed since my last message to you…my training seems to be on the increase. Not like ‘I could swear I was only here yesterday’ when in the gym, more like – my trainer seems to be under the impression I’m running to and up Kilimanjaro!

Goodness me, out of breath at my training most definitely. But there’s out of breath and then there’s out……of ……………….breath!

Having a different trainer for a week was good, challenging, at times the voice in my head said ‘you do know this isn’t physically possible’. To which I replied, ‘oh do shut up and get on with it’ which I did!

Five and half months till departure and we’re on track. In fact I received an email from the British Heart Foundation yesterday updating me on training, packing lists, training weekends etc. Yes the reality is setting in; when I think about the challenge ahead I think it’s safe to say it’s rather daunting. So, I don’t think about…just train and go day to day! 

Andy, deep breaths and prayers will get me through. Oh and thick socks and good boots!