Keep in mind that no photos were taken when it was raining so the photos make it look dryer than it was at times.
I'll keep my commentary mightily brief and leave it to those who completed the route to say more words.
Here goes.....
Day 01:
Climby. Getting steeper. Turning evil. Even Stuart wouldn't make a trail this daft steep. Dangerously sloppy trails. Down. SOCK MANGLE!!!!! Sleep in a church ruin.
Day 02:
Climb. Rain. Climb. Rain. Climb. Rain. etc..... Me, Chew and Taylor had enough and descended on the road to meet the others in Florence. Nice and warm once off the mountain.
Day 03:
Taylor leaves early. Me and Chew take a road shortcut as he's worried about time and I'm in p*ss poor shape. Joyous scenery. Sunshine. Dusty fireroads. Gladiator views. Proper Tuscany. Great big pizza!
Day 04:
Stunning tech descent. Pretty (but overhyped) river crossing. Undulating to the extent that it felt like never ending climbs. Thunderstorms. My legs gone. Chew tries in vane to revive my spirits. I take a room and Chew pushes on into the night. My bike sleeps in an antique shop.
Day 05:
Ride the road to the finish in scorching sun. Meet Chew and Taylor who ride round the island together. Drive north a bit, meet the others en route and eat seafood.
So.....
A massively challenging event this year which makes Steve's (and the others) achievement all the more impressive!!!
I'll be back next year having lost some weight, ridden more miles and carrying less kit (in hopefully better weather).
Was a pleasure to have ridden with you Chew, Taylor, Jase, Ione, Mike, Hux, Andy (and to say hello Steve, Ian and Gareth).
