Day 15: That Thursday Feeling

Today has been tough.

That's the best conclusion I can muster about Day 15. I think it speaks volumes that the first radio contact the walkers had with the support crew today not long before Aid Station 1 was simply 'we're broken'! There's only so much one of Tina's infamous brownies, a water refill and a scenic spot to sit (Man Sands) can do to recover a man after 15 consecutive days of walking, but it's the best we had on offer.

The boys pushed through valiantly today, battling shin splints, sore feet and other various aches and pains. Yet, as always, they were quick to be able to spot several very definite highlights of today:

• Today, Jon was joined by a friend of 30 years, Alex. We are so grateful to him for joining us and bringing a fresh bout of energy to the camp!

• Making it! Although Goodrington Sands wasn't exactly any one of the walkers' cup of tea (and the plastic cup Jon's end-of-day beer was served in made it to the day's 'lowlights' list), they were definitely glad to see it!

• Dolphins! At long last, the team spotted dolphins... and we're pretty sure they weren't boats this time!

• The interest of friendly strangers! Those green t-shirts worked their charm again.

Although in high spirits this evening, there is an apparent loss of steam in the team. The mental challenge of being so close to the finishing line but with three days still to go is taking its toll just as much as the physical. It's as though we've worked a long and hard week, and although the weekend is in sight we can't yet touch it. That classic Thursday feeling... Bring on Friday!

The boys, despite their ailments and waning energy, are not put off by today. Instead, they look forward to fewer miles tomorrow (that are to be walked with some lovely special guests!) that will get them that bit closer to home.

As we rest up, run some Epsom salted baths and pack up ready to head to our own beds tomorrow, take a look at some snapshots of today, our hardest day yet: Day 15 - Kingswear to Goodrington Sands, 15.2 miles, 1,046m ascent, 38,215 steps

Please continue to pray as we head into our final sixth if this adventure(!!) and share the donation link far and wide.

www.cranbrookchurch.org/jon

A team selfie to start the day!

Jac and Jon were joined today by Jon's school friend, Alex!

Smiling through the pain at today's end point: Goodrington Sands!

Alex's reflections of today