A bit late to report but we are back, bloodied but unbroken. 450+ kms of cycling on what I must say were some of the most unappealing surfaces I have ever experienced. But will we do it again? Of course.
A vein of self destruction ran through the team that left our team leaders aghast. Low points included Chis's face plant (and a video that makes mothers wince), John's base jump, Maddie's calf tattoo, Bill's garrotting, Duncan's foot slice, Rory's recycling and Nick's foot blisters and the lamppost-crushing-tent incident.
More importantly, we cycled through some of the worst drought stricken areas in the country. News from our host "boma" that the last of their cattle herd of 450 would die within two weeks and that more than 80% of Kilimanjaro's snow reservoir that waters the surrounding region has now disappeared were stark reminders of climate challenges. It has rained since, but not snowed, and there have now been widespread floods.
But there were high points, the staggeringly beautiful mountains, the wildness of cycling across the dry Amboseli lake bed, meeting an inspirational Tanzanian who has spent his life rehabilitating the forest in the mountains and cycling with the Masai.
And most impact of all, a day with Mkombozi who support street children in Tanzania, and a day on the streets of Nairobi with Undugu Society who supprt street children in Kenya. Formative moments for many of us.
Which brings us to you - the people who have helped us raise over £20,000 for street children. This is an amazing thing.
Thank you
John, Rory, Big Bill, Nick, Duncan, Chris & Maddie
p.s. Photos and videos available upon request
