Bob Egan

We then began phase two (death or glory) having been suitably chastised by a jobs worth for taking glasses on to the green, "plastics only" ringing in our ears. At this point, everyone was expressing how good they were feeling (intoxicated you fools) but miles 8 to 13 were probably the best stretch all day. As we marched up Grand drive "BLUE ARMY" was our battle cry, and the gates of Raynes Park Vale FC were saluted in a most marvellous manner as we strowed onwards (and more worryingly, upwards) towards King George's playing field. This is were the wannabes join, to do a piffling 5 mile stroll. We just looked down our flaired nostrils at them, and headed for Nonsuch Park, the last lovely green section of the walk. The placement of the porta loos at this location was a strategic success, as the ale had done it's work and wanted to leave. A brief rain shower at this point did nothing to dampen our spirit, and off we went to Sutton, finish line a certainty now. Oh dear, we had counted unhatched chickens, miles 13 to 15 were a tortuous switch back of slopes, hills, and roadworks, and now the mantra of " no pain - no gain" took over from Coldplay, Tom Jones and Chris Rea (road to hell was very apt at this point). We were really struggling at this stage, but quick thinking by Mister motivator, and the swift application of Rocky film tunes, and a truly masterful selection of "Chariots of Fire" gave us that final impetus to cross the line as a group, cheering and shouting our elation as we did. Medals were collected, injuries were compared, and smiles were plastered all over our sweaty mugs. As we wandered off to the nearest pub, to check blisters and seek refreshment, we were amazed to see the amount we had raised. That really was the highlight of the day, we had thoroughly enjoyed a tremendous day, and had raised a stonking amount of money for a marvellous charity in the process (£2155 as I write this and still climbing) Immediately our thoughts turned to next year. Yes, we will be going again next year. Yes , it will be in cricket whites (umpires coat for myself obviously) and pink tutus. Yes, we will have a flag.

Once again, thank you, thank you, thank you to each and everyone who donated to my page, we blew the bloody doors off! ( Sadly I need help in and out of a chair this morning, but that's a price well worth paying)

Many, many thanks to all of you lovely people who have donated to this very worthy cause, all I have to do now to repay your generosity is complete the 15 miles (it sounds a lot when I put it like that)

Feeling confident that the legs will make it, lots of walking done in preparation (and also standing on a cricket pitch for 7 hours umpiring), suitable energy snacks have been ordered (pork pies, sausage rolls, chip butties), and an early night Saturday on the cards, what could possibly go wrong?

With a fair wind and a following sea (well river) I shall hopefully post a successful conclusion on Sunday evening (or Monday morning more likely)

Once again, thank you all ❤️