We’re here and it’s been an experience and a half already. We really appreciated the Campbell clan, our families and a number of friends coming to see us off at Sydney airport. As a support crew we understand the importance of our task and the professionalism we’ll show. Whilst we are here for a serious job we will have fun when we can…..although we’ve been tested on Day 1.
Any nervousness at the airport dissipated thanks to Dave’s new friend Jennifer at check-in whom turned a blind eye to our 1-2 boxes of bike parts. Stan laid his cards on the table early with a couple of Shots on the way through duty free, having time to recover as our flight left over an hour late. Watching Rusty and Roger nervously trying to get their in-flight stockings on was hilarious – ballet is not for them. Our flight was uneventful bar Russell’s faulty headset, the questionable eggs, the captain whom took great delight in turning the Seatbelt sign on whenever a toilet queue formed and the girl in the yellow bikini in the movie that caught everyone’s attention.
US Immigration detained Stan for a lengthy period on arrival, perhaps because his signatures on all his documents are different, are spelt different even though his full signature is simply “Stan”. We met Mesch, our newest virtual team member whom was at the airport looking for Stan, as were we – Stan was still in immigration! Stan has been quiet about his experience at immigration, although rumours persist that Doctor Proctor gave Stan the once over, his Ice-Fingers working a treat.
We caught up with Mickey, collected Gary from his flight and traipsed to Hertz, now “Hurtz” afer a 10min process became a 2.5hr check-in, testing Dave’s charm skills to the max as Calax at the check-in counter refuted his efforts to get our car. Dave was keen to take her to dinner but her painted eyebrows and general demeanour scared him away, a beaten man. RAAM 1 – MickRooCrew 0. Dave sought solace with supervisors and his persistence eventually got Calax to relent, and we could get our vehicle and get on our way.
We enjoyed the freeway jaunt to Oceanside, and if Mickey rides as fast as he drives, he’ll nail RAAM in record time. Our conversation was enthralling at 120km/hr as we marvelled at the individuality of the architectural design of the housing estates, and after one of Rusty’s jokes, decided we won’t ever go camping with Rusty! Dinner became an informal launch gathering, enjoyable with good friends and good food. Mickey’s eating heaps, as he primes himself for RAAM. The dinner and camaraderie was a nice way to end the day. RAAM 1 – MickRooCrew 1.
Anyone whom we have met whom has asked what we are doing is very positive, supportive and enthralled by the epic undertaking Mickey is making. The encouragement adds to the confidence, as we prepare. Bikes are now ready, the team is gelling well, and many other elements such as our 2-way radio’s, food, team rosters and processes are falling into place. Mickey looks good, composed and that steely resolve is harbering just below the surface.
We’ve sorted out our sleeping positions in the ‘cosy’ bungalow where we can hear the waves of the ocean and it’s nice to know our loved ones are on the other side of the horizon. Greg’s sleeping under the table, Mickey gets his own room whilst Stan is staying at his cousins’ place. Roger’s sleeping bag turned out to be Paddy’s parka…. And Roger will be very snug in his sleeping jacket.
Roger also says thanks Celine for the anti-thrombosis stockings which saved his legs, but nearly killed his feet with blisters like Mickey had in the Sahara.
All is well, and we can’t wait for tomorrow, cheers, Greg
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