After my first challenge in 2003 I said never again and then somehow in 2005 I found myself cycling 300 miles across Rajasthan in India. After that I think the words "shoot me if I suggest another challenge" were uttered. However yet again as the time passes the memories take on a rosy glow and the hardships of training and taking part don't seem so bad after all. I also suspect it's the thought of reaching 50 this year that also makes me want to prove that age is what you make it - and I'm not ready to slide into middle age quietly. 

So here I am again having been persuaded by my partner in crime - Sheila, that we really should do another. This time I'm undertaking what I believe will by hardest challenge and that is trekking the Inca Trail.

Essentially the Inca Trail is a mountainous jungle hike leading to the sacred Inca city of Machu Picchu. The 45km trek is usually covered over 4 days, arriving at Machu Picchu at daybreak on the final day. With very early starts (4am) and steep passes at altitudes of 4200m it will be challenging. As my background notes informed me - don't let anyone think this will be a holiday. 45km in 4 days might not seem far but the altitude means that eveything has to be taken slowly to avoid altitude sickness. For example our two longest days trekking are climb Dead Woman’s Pass (4200m) expected to take 7-8 hrs and climb Runkuracay Pass (4000m) expected to take 8-10 hr. I am hoping that the unfortunately named Dead Woman's Pass is not an omen.

My training has already begun in earnest - I'm back at Slimming World and have already lost a stone and I'm also back at the gym. Trust me it's hard work just preparing for the challenge before I even take part and this is not taking into account the numerous fund raising activities that will need to be organised.

March 2009 update.

Well I now know how to use the Stairmaster at the gym and trust me after this trek I hope I never have to use it again. Both Sheila and I successfully reached the summit of Snowdon despite the wind chill, sleet and below freezing temperatures. We did hang around long enough to take the obligatory photo to prove we've done it, before making a pretty scary descent at times due to the sleet and wind.

Hopefully this will get across that I will be working hard so that you'll be encouraged to sponsor me to raise funds for my chosen charity the Camphill Village Trust. The Trust does amazing work supporting adults with learning disabilities, mental health problems and other special needs.They support people in their home life, work, social and cultural activities through 11 urban and rural communities in England and Scotland. I have been a supporter of Botton Village in Yorkshire for many years, which is one of their communities. If you feel you could help me raise money for the Camphill Trust I'd be immensely grateful and it would make my hard work worthwhile. Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Camphill Village Trust Limited gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Many thanks for taking the time to read this and thanks in advance on behalf of the Camphill Trust. If you'd like to know more about the Trust and the amazing work they do go to http://www.cvt.org.uk/