Time to stretch out a bit further and test ourselves again with a Camino training walk.
It’s decided an early start at 7am means we can avoid the heat of the day and get through it all in the morning. 20 kilometres is the target distance and we plan out a sequence of stops every 5 kms or so to refuel with a can of sprite or an ice cream to keep the team forging ahead. This proves super effective, all armies march on their stomachs I suppose.
From our house in Matavera, 20kms means a walk all the way back through Avarua, out past the airport and to the Rarotonga Brewery (closed as it turns out, devastated, my devious plans ruined) and then back again. Much cooler than last time and with the motivating treats on offer everyone keeps the pace up. I carry Tom (the lump) much more successfully this time, the training is definitely working.
Total trip time was around 4:30 for the 20 which I think is good. The heat here is great and it’s nice to be walking on the flat the entire time. Some hills would definitely be helpful to see how hard it will be but we are all really pleased with how we stood up to the task. Max has no problems, he’s more than fit enough and really completed it in a canter (even though he put on a little show with his hands on his knees, blowing hard conveniently just before every drink stop). Nate stood up really well and kept up. Alissa was in control all the time and I was definitely tired at the end with Tom on the back but it worked. Really pleased.
We arrive back pretty worn out and decide that a trip to Muri for a celebratory lunch is in order so the boys and I decide on a return trip to Vili’s Burger Joint (much to Alissa’s chagrin). They genuinely make excellent burgers, the buns are locally made I would think, perfectly soft and the patties are made in house. Great options and the boys love them. So do I. Any burger bar that goes heavy on the pickles is alright in my book. Basic burger goes out at $5.50, Vili’s cheesburger at $7.50 (my recommendation) up to a double pattied monstrosity at $12 I think. Pretty good for Rarotonga prices.
We also drift in to Ariki adventures for a peruse of their options and to have a cold drink. Eyes light up at the underwater scooter options. Good coconuts and coffee too.
Back to the house for a movie in the afternoon, everyone starts to feel the mornings exertions. I think we are all proud of ourselves for how it went. I’m certainly proud of everyone.
