“Morning has broken, like the first morning……” came to mind when I woke up early this morning. The sun was already up, quite a welcoming change from the last few days. The camp is much more animated than usual; a lot of racers have already arrived at camp and, as there is no race today, they are taking it pretty easy. Some have gone back round the course to enjoy the scenery they missed last night in the dark, others are busy exchanging war stories around the camp-fire.
After several days of racing and living together, the competitors have developed some pretty close bonds with one another. They have been through some very similar experiences and, on this day of rest, they finally have the time and opportunity to reflect on them, laugh about them, and at the same time learn more about each other. At the far end of the camp, the local team is also enjoying the slow day, playing very lively traditional music that makes you want to dance. A lot of racers joined in the fun, making the camp feel very festive.
During the last few days, I have come to know a really great group of people who have each put in so much volunteering to make this race a success. There is Emma, who has a great pure heart; Angus, who is selfless and capable; Tania, who is both mature and responsible, despite being the youngest of all; Alex C., who is very knowledgeable and caring (and whom I respect a lot); Alex L., who is tough but funny; Vicky, who is hardworking and has the best nickname (Mrs. Beckham); Jen, who is always a laugh; Christine, who is very thoughtful; Jami, who unfortunately has to endure my bossiness but with whom I have some great conversations; Cindy (Drinnan, who wants me to mention her full name so she could be more searchable), who is so sweet; Nicola, who is extra considerate; Janie, who has a heart of gold; Lesley (Lily of the desert), with whom you can’t be bored; Evelyn, who gives her all; Luis, who is very nice to talk to; and Sally, the multitalented poet and healer. I look forward to meeting them all again after Saturday, and especially with Sally. Not only is she a great poet even when writing about the WC, she is also an energy healer who heals by making connections with different bodily functions. I also enjoyed discussing spiritual philosophy with her, and am looking forward to some more.
Tomorrow will be the big finish where we will all arrive at the town square of San Pedro de Atacama. The leader board has not changed much lately with Mark of Canada almost certain to win, especially if the top runners do what they did last night – all come in at the same time hand-in-hand. (It seems that sharing the experience is now more important then winning. How great is that!)
We are already at the homestretch, and even though I dreaded the freezing nights and lack of showers, it is so worth it to be out here witnessing the determination of all the racers and the generosity of all the volunteers. I feel so alive, and I know this is how I want to feel every minute of my life.
P.S. A special mention to racer #12 Brian Betts, who I consider to be the first fan of these journals! Good luck tomorrow, Brian. See you at the finish line.
