Well and truly on the home straight now, and after what’s been a tough couple of months in terms of getting our team together, we decided to get together last Sunday for  a barbecue and some final prep.  After truly terrible weather in Manchester for the whole week, the omens looked good when the sun came out and gave us the hottest day of the year so far.

It was a day of firsts.  The first time Nick or Ben had met Kelly, the first time we’d ever all been together in Sheila as team when she was actually moving and the first time Kelly had driven her at all.  We took some pictures, we ate some burgers and we all got a bit worried about the heat – it was sweaty in Manchester.  It’s going to be an oven in Kazakhstan.  No matter, we’re tough!

Also important is for us to give a huge shout out to our two latest financial sponsors who have been incredibly generous in partnering up with us to help with our costs.  Weightmans Liverpool and Lawrence Clarke Limited both now have their logos proudly displayed for all to see on the side of our beloved Sheila.  Guys, thank you so much – we wouldn’t be able to do this without your generosity.

On a completely separate note, we have two (yes TWO!) Mongolia Five parties organised prior to our departure, both to raise more money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer.  If you fancy giving your liver a bit of a workout whilst supporting a great charity, then you can bob along to either the Dee Sailing Club, Station Road, Wirral on Friday July 8th at 7.30 pm or The Junction Pub, Green Lane, Middleton, Manchester on Saturday July 16th from 8pm.  Both of these events are limited ticket only – please get hold of us either on Facebook or using our contact form for details on how to get yours.

Finally, we’re still a bit desperate for gear and kit.  Please take a moment to check over our wish list.  If you’ve anything to give, then let us know.