4 Sep 2008

Day Eighteen - Palmerston North to Foxton

This morning was a sleep in for the crew with an 11am start for most….however I made my way down to the Edge radio station at 8am for a morning interview so I was up bright and early.

We arrived at Shell Fairway this morning at 11am to an outstanding welcome by the Shell team, the local police, the armed defenders squad and a couple of the Palmy North canine handlers (as well as their German Sheppard’s “Ego” and “Vice”)…so we were all feeling extremely safe as we cruised the streets of Palmerston North! A great effort from the boys (who also ran along beside us with donation buckets)….thank you all for your time.

I was lucky enough to also have Graham and Raewyn Walker and Richie Russell join me to walk our way through the city. Graham and Raewyn lost their son six years ago when he was leaving Richie Russell’s home over a railway line. Their story is another tragic example of just how many lives are affected by rail incidents and is the reason we are undertaking this walk for awareness. To Graham, Raewyn and Richie…I would like to thank you for coming out with me today….it was extremely special for me to share this part of my journey with you.

As we made our way out of Palmerston North heading up the Poineer Highway towards Foxton we were again able to peel off the layers and we were actually applying sun cream….which was a welcomed task! We passed several motorist and local farmers who pulled over and come out to meet us as we came by. Thank you to all of those who donated to our cause.

The body is feeling pretty good tonight, however the feet aren’t fairing quite so nicely. I have lost a few nails and am nursing several blisters….but with a few plasters and applications of second skin I will be back on the road tomorrow to make my way toward Levin.

CC

 

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