There are many reasons for one to be thankful about existing in the 21st Century. The very fact that these ramblings can be published for the delight and delectation of international masses at the mere click of a button is testament enough to the achievements of our time.

However, often have my intrepid compadres and myself lain at night and dreamt of undertaking a very different type of ramble. To stride where no civilised man has strode before, to hail savages with a cheery 'what-ho chum!', to sip Bombay Sapphire with individuals that have never experienced the pleasure of well cut tweed, this was our desire.

The obstacle that had sat in our way was time. The shackles that had been holding us back were not made of steel, but rather cast from that intangible, yet immovable, problem of birth date. Gone are the days when a chap could wake up, slip into his breeches, jump aboard his steed and undertake a healthy dollop of exploring...or so we mistakenly thought.

Our desire can now become a reality. The Africa Rally 2008 will see Great Balls of Fur embark upon a hitherto unattempted (probably) venture. On the 18th of July 2008, 4 intrepid souls will wave a merry 'toodle-pip!' to London town and set off into a world of mystery and intrigue. Their journey will take them through Europe and into the Middle East and, all being well, will see them pop out in Africa. They will meander their way through this great continent until finally coming to rest in the West African nation of Cameroon 5 weeks later.

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