We have had an immense few days. First off a succesful press conference at Lord's. Next, navigating a Heathrow bomb-scare that lead to us playing cricket in the dropping-off area. This delayed us, meaning that Qatar (who gave us 2 of our own check-in desks and have been completely amazing!) had to delay the connecting flight. Vick Staves lost her passport, which meant we nearly lost her and Jules! We made with, miraculously, all our central kit in tact
Despite having booked the rooms 6 months before, we had to be shifted to another hotel. wUs Hillary boys then went and coached some orphan kids at Aamir's 'Shangri-La Cricket Acadmey, which was an awesome experioence in itself.
Tenzing arrived but didn't do as I asked, leaving me furious. We got on the 'death flight'. We got to Lukla without any problems and are now firmly on the trail, having made it to Phakding, where we had some Tongba (see earlier posts!). Now we are in Namche Bazarre.
It has been immensely satisfying seeing this thing begin to materialise. There's a long way yet to go, and it's been eventful, but we are all safe, as is our kit and spirits are high. We have certainly had our planning tested, but am pleased to say that each challenge has more than been met and everyone has operated with the utmost professionalism. Today we had our first real health problem, one of the expedition falling ill mid-trek with AMS caused by dehydration. The medics stepped up to the plate and he is now safe, resting and will be fit to continue tomorrow. The journalists here seem more than happy with what they are getting, which is great. Sometimes I find fielding all the questions and handling the various situations a little tiring, but that's the job and I suspect that when I look back it will be fondly and with pride. It's great to be back here though!
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