Well, the time finally arrived when Simon, Matt and myself had to don our Lycra and get a little physical.
The first ever Plymouth M.A.D (Marjon Adventure Day) took place this Sunday, and after two very large bowls of porridge, I felt ready for the challenge ahead. Unfortunately, we had no idea of what was expected of us, as the race organisers were keeping those cards close to their chest until the briefing just before the start.
The race began with a short orienteering course on the University campus to get warmed up and then on to our bikes to begin the long journey around Plymouth using a map and our incredible map reading skills…
After a few check points had been gained, we found ourselves in Central Park with another, much longer orienteering course to navigate. After a couple of hitches at the beginning, we soon completed this section of the day.
Back on our bikes and heading toward the Hoe and the Citadel, making sure we mark off as many check points en route. Once reaching the Citadel, we were confronted with challenge number two, abseil down the mighty walls. Not something I was looking forward to, having a very healthy fear of heights! Luckily for me, only two members of each team were allowed to partake in these activities. So Matt and Simon rose to the challenge. Phew!
After a pleasant ferry trip over to Mount Batten my greatest fear confronted me. After a mix up at the beginning of the next challenge, Simon and myself were soon climbing the Mount Batten cliff! After some precarious handholds and wobbly legs, we made it to the top safely.
Next challenge, rowing. Matt and Simon were up once again and soon whizzed through the activity. I can’t say I was there for support as I was still quivering at the top of the cliff.
Now all the individual activities were over, we had the long journey back to Marjons. The bike ride back passed through some very pleasant parts of Plymouth including Saltram House and the Plym Valley. After some very steep hills, we could see the university on the horizon and the end of our endurance ordeal, giving us just enough energy boost to make it to the finish line for a well deserved pasty… oh, and a T–shirt and medal.
