Dear brave Lions,
Time flies and here we are again, in less than a month’s time we will be climbing up the mountains once again The simple thought of the Annual Lions Expedition to the Pyrenees makes a smile come to my face when things get a little tough at work.
The format remains the same as in previous years, in what we have called the “Lions triathlon of the Pyrenees” (cycling, trekking and canyoning); sometimes in the past we have added to that rafting, but this year this will not be the case. Although our base camp is as every year in El Poblado (El Grado), we will nevertheless go up to the high Pyrenees for trekking, to the Guara mountains for Canyoning and to the lower Pyrenees for the mountain biking excursion. We hope as always walk on snow or ice and therefore to use either crampons or snowshoes (no need to bring those as I will hire them for all). . Depending snow and weather conditions we may even cross into France in the trekking expedition. But remember we will take no risks. It is important for this that we all train regularly from now on, preferably twice a week. We can do this with our families, as it is intended to be a family event. As you know a veteran Lion, Tim Dauncey, has just returned from “Marathon des Sables”, no need to emulate him, I want all of you fit, not exhausted!
The camaraderie of all the members of the expedition is one of the attractive things of the Expedition and in a way it is guaranteed. I promise to all of you that, like the Marines, you will return. We will give thanks to God for many things and being a few days away from our families and normal occupations we will return refreshed and with new energies which will be noticed in our families and work places.
The contributions by each Lions, in the form of specific jobs before, during or after the Expedition, is appreciated. Some of you will be making photographs, a video, others driving or cooking, others will act as sherpas, guides, etc. It is this mutual help, that makes the experience very enjoyable.
Forward men to the top!
Ave Caesar, morituri te salutant!
Sir Anthony Irastorza(Editor)
Lion of the Pyrenees