Actually there wasn't any of either but it makes quite a good title.
We started at 11.01 (pm of course), one of the first teams to go. By the time we got to Moscar (11.5 miles), all other teams had overtaken us except for one. And they passed us at Cut Gate.
Overnight the weather was a mixture of persistent drizzle and hill fog. After dawn the skies cleared to give some hazy sunshine but with a cold wind.
The bog monster was on holiday, it was all much drier than on our recce, and much to our surprise there were only two immersions – me up to my knees, and Carmen up to her thighs (serves her right for taking my advice on a good crossing point).
It was all very, very tiring.
A little over 2000m ascent and 43 miles. 49 teams started. 43 finished. We were 42nd, in something like 15 hours 50 minutes (a mere 7 hours behind the winners).
But that wasn't the point. We finished, which was our only aim. Despite no training, and a little half hearted reconnaissance, we got to the end. A sterling effort by all. Will, who had never done anything remotely like this before (nor will again if he's got any sense), and did half the course with blisters on 2 toes which were as big as the toes themselves. Alan, who has done stuff like this before, but still wanted to take part – more fool he. And Carmen, who faced with yet another silly idea, just couldn't say no.
And a special mention to Will's parents for kindly chauffeuring us home afterwards.
Roll on next year!
…when we can stay at home and eat pizza instead.
Some more photos here.
Route map here.