Greetings!
I am writing this missive from the plank position, having started Matthew’s very helpful exercises!
For Antonio and myself, this will be our 10th trip. Who would have thought that when three of us met in 2001, as less than cool cats, the legendary Lions of the Pyrenees would be the outcome? For all current Lions, they will know the unique camaraderie that exists. For the new Lions, there is a store in treat!
Whilst I try and get out of the plank position, I have read the list of jobs. There are two noticeable omissions. Firstly, our “cosmetic adviser”. It needs to be someone who is prepared to go into an expensive pharmacy to buy the most expensive skincare spray to treat sunburn. If anyone wants to take on this role, please let me know.
Secondly, everyone will have noticed there is no “dance co-ordinator”. Having been treated to an impromptu demonstration of the funky chicken high in the mountains last year, I expect the same individual could be teaching us the Pyrenean pirouette this time!
On a totally different tack (as the paramedics arrive to take me off to casualty, having locked-up in the plank position) could I suggest two other items to add to the kit list? Firstly, most of you will have come across energy gels, these will come in handy for the more strenuous activities (in fact every day!). Secondly, there is a possibility of heavy rain and you may consider bringing an extra waterproof, a plastic poncho, something our mountain guide, Omar, regards as essential!
Looking forward to meeting all the new Lions and to catching up with the rest of you!
Alastair Caisley
[Our Plank Correspondent]
