EVEREST!

Location:	Everest
Mileage:	9,000

So today is the day. EVEREST! We have the day to go there and back – the total sum of around 140 miles road trip. We retrace our steps to the entrance and then start a climb through plenty of dirt switchbacks. Round a corner and on the left there’s a view point. We couldn’t have had a more perfect day.

Everest was in the distance – a perfect peak set against deep blue sky. We stop and gaze in awe. It’s at least another 50 miles to get to its base. The riders peer out and see the staggering view of hairpins that awaits them. The ride has to descend into a lush green valley first, before then climbing back up rough and rocky road to get to the Rongbuk Monastery and onto Base Camp. We share the road with packs of yaks and little local 125 bikes. Then Everest comes into view.

My breath is taken away with the beauty of the highest peak on the planet. I’m privileged to be here a second time, to wander amidst monks and prayer wheels whilst birds swoop above my head and the gentle murmur of chant and prayer carry on the wind. But more so to share the moment with a inspiring group of riders – riders for whom this journey is a defining point in their lives, riders who could have easily given up and moaned at how tough it was, but didn’t. One member of our team is 70 years old, another only came back to riding a couple of years ago and we have a couple riding two-up the whole way – incredible.

With our Everest conquered in our own way, we head back to Dingri. A milestone Everest maybe, but there is still 4,000 miles left on this trip and they are not going to be easy ones. It ain’t over yet!