Wednesday 28 July 2010

Day 20

With slightly fuzzy but well rested heads, Team Probert made a slow start to day 20. As the Clynelish distillery was just down the road, and we'd sampled the fine single malt the night before, we thought it would only be right to take a tour of the establishment this morning. After a fascinating insight into the process, and a wee swalley for the road, we set off again into the increasingly wild and desolate wilderness.



After a 10 mile blast down the coastal road, we arrived at Helmsdale, home of the surprisingly named 'La Mirage' - one of the top 6 fish and chip shops in the UK - It didn't disappoint. Mum and Sarah joined us to enjoy the feast then the riders set off with that familiar stuffed to the gills feeling.

The rest of the ride was a 40 mile trek on a single lane road, cutting through stunning Sutherland scenery. Every car we came across came with its own dedicated fishing rod rack, as the locals flocked to reap the harvest from the area's wild rivers. We passed haunting remains of the old crofting settlements - remnants from the clearances. The rain showers we could see on the distant mountains finally found us and soaked us through and just as suddenly stop for us to be bathed in sunshine.



As evening drew in, the sight of the van signalled our stop for the night and as always Mum and Sarah were unbelievable in their support work, putting up the tent as we headed to the inn next door to refuel on soup and ale alongside a whole host of other Lejogers. The support team have been brilliant throughout and deserve another mention before the adventure is over - thanks so much!



So we're poised at our final stop in the north coast town of Melvich, ready for our final day assault on John o' Groats. Stand by for an emotional day tomorrow! 

2 comments:

  1. Wish we could be there tomorrow to lend our support - but will most definately be thinking of you all!! What a fabulous achievement - we are SSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO proud of all of you.
    Hugs and muscle-rubs to everyone - specially LeDog. xx

    ReplyDelete
  2. OK Guys - this is it. A mere doddle now. The final push and then the amazing culmination of a fantasic journey; relief, euphoria, pride and collapse!
    How to follow? LEJOG pushing peas with noses?
    Seriously, for a millisecond, well done to all of you: the cyclists, the supportists and the dogist. Privilege.

    ReplyDelete