Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
chile
november 18
Today I crossed the border into Chile. Chile is a long (4300 kilometres),
narrow (average 175 kilometres) country squeezed between the Pacific
Ocean to the west, Bolivia to the north-east and the Andes and Argen-
tina to the east.
After what seemed to be a never-ending trek in Peru, running
through the relentless sandy desert and scrambling up and down
sand dunes, we're all excited to pass another milestone. On the road
I realised again that I am grateful for many things in life, and Peru,
which in parts has terrible sanitation, showed me just how lucky I am
to have access to clean water. Once more it has impressed upon me
the fact that water is life. Even in Peru, one of the most arid countries I
have ever been to, the few places with access to water have flourishing
crops and animals and thriving communities.
I ran more than 100 kilometres again today. The scenery was simi-
lar to some of that in Peru, except I ran past picturesque fishing villages
and a not-so-picturesque copper mine with a refinery that stank to the
high heavens. I saw some squished hares on the road.
november 19
A successful day. I ran 90 kilometres, which reduced by a little the
ground I have to make up in my probably hopeless quest to be in Punta
Arenas by December 29. After the run, the crew and I sat around talking
and laughing. Our spirits are high again after some time in the dol-
drums caused by the issues over the schedule and the six-wheel drive
vehicle. We sat and looked up at the stars and were blown away by their
brightness. They seemed so large. When I made out the familiar shape
of the saucepan, I was transported back in my mind to wonderful times
