Here we are!

Arrived at midday. Overcast is good. Just waiting for Justin to meet up with the rest of Team Sydenham. He's just arrived and is hanging out for his massage. Sorry buddy but we have a train to catch. And some of us have a date with Ronald Mac for lunch.

Are we there yet? (3)

Equality of the sexes indeed. Queuing for a cubicle is a great leveller.

Are we there yet? (Take 2)

In the sausage sizzle queue at Altona, near the Dangerlow Bridge.

Two of the lads had a bingle whilst overtaking along the Williams town back beach road. Didn't think to look for oncoming cyclists.

They weren't alone. A number of others were doing the same thing.

Team Brookshaw

Kylie and Amanda ready to let it rip.

Team Sydenham look on in awe.

Are we there yet?

Where is that Start line? About 200 metres away. The excitement is unbearable.

The bike brothers

Team Copperfield (Sydenham chapter) are as keen as mustard to get on the road.

KP kids are just getting out of bed. Reports came in that Raymond may have broke his leg (or twisted his ankle.) He turns up, as good as gold.

Patrick didn't set his alarm and misses out on a day of fun in the sun.

Three days out

Note to self:

Still a tad over 90 kg, no training over the holidays (can't count the quad cycle jaunt on the Lido) and not a pretty site in the lycra (mother-in-law says I look like tony Abbott).

Preparation list

Note to self, written in August:

It's a long way out, but I need to get organised.

I need to:

• lose 10 kilograms
• start training earlier
• maintain training schedule whilst overseas by walking and cycling
• carry less gear/water/food