Day 11 Section 9

Well today proved to be a massive day!

We were woken at 4.45 am, had breakfast and then hit the trail on what was to be an epic 12 hour hike.

We had our head torches on and walked through the dark for about an hour which added a whole other dimension to walking.

Due to various injuries we were two trekkers down today, but they were with us in spirit.

We just kept walking with only a couple of tiny snack stops.   It was wet and windy and when we finally stopped for lunch we were all freezing so lunch was eaten quickly so we could then walk the last 10 kms. 

We talked about so many random subjects, found out lots more about each other and played games - anything to pass the time as those last kms after lunch were painful on our knees, feet and joints. 

The courageous Ellen and Jodi both have knee issues and both were in such pain today but never once complained.

Reddie has blisters under the nails of her big toes which are so painful as her boot pushes into them each step.

We are walking over so many rocks and everyone's feet are really suffering, but they all keep going.

Poor Mieke got a migraine half way through the day and despite her obvious discomfort still went on.

Fi Fi and Mama C are like mountain goats and you can barely catch them but Mama is always walking back to check on F Troop.  Rod is ever the gentleman and always offering to help. 

It's hard to explain how sore everyone's legs and feet are after 10 days of backing up with hiking each day and every step of the way you are walking on rocks.

There were a few tears today, but after a cry and a hug, everyone just got on with it. 

We finally finished at 5 pm after almost 12 hours. 

When we arrived back into camp the wonderful Leanne and Rach had set up our swags and our bags and we were SO grateful.

We all changed as we were so cold and wet and then headed to the camp fire for dinner, which tonight was Indian curry and pappadums. It really warmed us up.

Two days again we were walking in 30 degree heat and today we have thermals, beanies and gloves on. 

As soon as we ate we all went to bed - it's 7.18 pm as I write this and we are in our swags. 

We are excited to only have a 4 hour trekking day tomorrow which means we don't have to get up until 7.30 am - EXCITED MUCH !!!!!!

To all the families and friends of all the Trekkers, you should all be SO proud - these are amazing, selfless and courageous people who I am honoured to share this adventure with. 

Until tomorrow 

Donna x