Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
february 17
I haven't seen a tall tree since I headed across from the east of Argen-
tina until today. The severe winds prevent trees on the plains growing
beyond shrubs but in this last section the mountains provide some
protection. I am relieved that the surface has changed from flat open
road to hilly and mountainous territory, this gives my muscles a varia-
tion in the length of my stride and stops a lot of the leg soreness. I don't
feel so fatigued at the end of the day.
While I was running I remembered how, when I was about to
start this event, I likened it to being sentenced to ten months' hard
labour and how, like a prisoner, I had no choice but to keep my head
down and do my time. Now it's as if I am in the last few days of my sen-
tence and about to be released, but instead of euphoria I worry about
how I will adapt when my every waking hour is not regimented. I've
heard of ex-prisoners who cannot cope with freedom when they get
out of jail and long to return to their cell. How will I cope when I have
choices? It's almost time to set new goals and face new challenges.
I don't know how I will fare but, as I always say, your next step is
the most important step of your life.
february 19
My job is done. At ten o'clock this morning I completed the pole-to-
pole run: 20,919 kilometres in ten months and 13 days. I stopped last
night 30 kilometres from Ushuaia so that I could be in the town centre
this morning, by the statue of Eva Perón, to be greeted by Red Cross
officials, the mayor, sports administrators, police, the fire brigade and
a throng of locals. I didn't sleep a wink.
I covered the final few kilometres easily and quickly, in spite of
the wind and sleet. Nothing could dampen my spirits today; I breezed
down that road. Funnily, though, at the moment I crossed the finish
point, my right knee collapsed, and I stumbled. It was as if it had been
holding on until the very last, but now that the run was over it gave up.
I was feeling no pain, however.
After the hugs and handshakes I downed some thick, tasty seafood
chowder and a couple of colas, had a bath and donned clean clothes—
luxury. Then Radio 2GB was on the line, and Karl Stefanovic's producer
