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“We are not marching for glory or honor, but because those beside us would march alone if we did not” Like a dog tired battalion today we embarked together to complete a final pushover the top of mountains and the final stretch of long kilometers to complete our challenge
As we rose out of Taupo at sunrise the steam rising from the lake, weary legs ached as we climbed the hills on our 160km lap. The bunch was quiet as we all fought our own personal demons in the midst of the chilly morning.
The first 100km was what seemed an endless number of rolling hills a slight headwind and rough tarmac straining even further already tired legs. As we finally reached our lunch stop the weary bodies of the team fell into thoughtfully provided beanbags and a well earned feed.
At this point it became apparent that we were to have a tailwind home for our final fifty kilometers and the back of the mountains crossed was broken. Spirits started to rise as the realisation that the finish line was in sight and achievable from here.
As we rode out of lunch the Starlight express came to the front and drove the bunch forward across the last few climbs at a considered pace to make sure everyone came together to achieve the ultimate victory of finishing this epic 1000km ride over seven days.
As the weary riders crossed the finish line the amazing support team were, as always, waiting there to celebrate showering us in cheap champagne! The elation of achieving such a magnificent effort was only suppased by Matt informing us that collectively we’d achieved our stretch fundraising goal of $800,000!
Laughter, hugs and tears all mixed together as emotions overflowed, glasses were raised, and the individual and collective achievements of the team of 2025 chain reaction Melbourne were celebrated!
