may hear talk about the Attack Al-Andalus when it was just an idea. Maybe I sound like a desire of others that had nothing to do with me. And maybe I was implying so much so that at last he has finished making it part of me ... or rather, I part of it. Undoubtedly what makes me still mulling over the head is the difference between what I expected it to be and what really has been. I mixed the people, the days events, they were all going at the speed of pedaling tic-tac Fran, but some take 
d tattooed for life and try and translate it along the chronicle .
Cuando hablamos del proyecto para ver si podía mover algún tipo de ayuda en beneficio del reto nunca pensé que yo misma, es decir mi persona, podría echar una mano. Aún recuerdo el día en que Gaizka me dijo, ¿acompañarías a Fran en la Contrarreloj? Aunque no sabía muy bien cómo, tenía claro cuál era la respuesta, un rotundo 'sí'. Quería participar y ayudar en este genial proyecto y haría todo lo que estuviera en mi mano.
A no más de dos semanas de que el reto comenzara, todo empezó a coger forma. Hicimos balance de lo que teníamos hasta la fecha y lo que cada uno, a su entender, consideraba que faltaba, de modo que pudiéramos resolver flecos, ya que had little time to get everything tied down. From the beginning I felt very comfortable, and the preparations were all one. We were a unique team for our obvious differences: different characters, different profiles, but the truth is that we fit perfectly.
"What makes
happy? Be useful to others. Not only was the sport but also would raise funds for a cancer association and that motivated me even more. When people asked me was going to do on vacation and told him of the Counter-clock threw his hands to his head, 'four days in a car? But you are going to give a palizón as hell, right? " Precisely this was the least I thought. Rather, my head was spinning with how innovative it was the test and it seemed like a great idea and an experience, where if we could guess the end, nothing was written down and knew it could happen.
Time for the truth and after many emails we finally saw the faces in Villanueva de Córdoba. Nerves the night before made us to sleep rather little, and almost without realizing we are rolling, and embarked on the adventure and trying to adapt as quickly as possible. At the moment we despistábamos a little Fran 'we lost'.
When 70 kilometers from the exit the van began to smoke did not give us time or come to us down, no one thought about the possibility of leaving and going to a thousand heads looking for another option that was viable. The solution was to change the van of a passenger car, which allowed us to move forward but with a considerable reduction of space, which meant an additional difficulty.
Having to wait in the shop where we took the van and then back track to pick up the new support vehicle was one of the most difficult to bear. It was as if he wanted to go sideways but you're shooting for another go. Fran, already knowing what had happened, continued the challenge in self-sufficiency for what I estimated would be about 3 hours minimum, I actually was going in the opposite direction by the 'new' car for support. Gaizka while fighting with the workshop and to hurry and calculated the best way to distribute food, tools, spare parts, etc. that were not expendable and that the space allowed to take with us. Leave behind important things like the front wheel and spare bike, but in this case, would to be dispensable.
We were moving again and pr
absolute ioridad Fran was to find that we do not quitábamos of the head, and who has already warned us by phone was in very poor condition due to dehydration. Had he done to Dred, Fran could not choose a more solitary road at that point along the route, did not have any bar or to purchase season in liquid or food, the firm was in bad shape and we see the miles pass in the car between curves, slopes, hills and potholes, we were afraid to find it lying in the gutter just around any corner. It was so overcome by itself the part of the road leading into a private estate that allowed him to reach the next village, Alanis. Once all together and with the late afternoon we went molding what would be the usual reason in the trial, although we knew that would happen Fran dehydration bill you later or earlier.
After intense afternoon sun, the arrival of the moonlit night gave way to calm, but as dawn approached, all became more ugly and grateful that the day put an end to the harsh morning at that we had to face, especially the first, all part of the Cadiz coastline up to Algeciras and Fran struggling with his stomach to take food out stop.
The result of hydration to counteract the negative effects of lack of fluid and food the first day made the stomach Fran came a time to say 'we are here. " And while an incredible beat this bump in the road, dragged some sequels like 'disgusted' with certain foods and drinks. We rode in the car and what would suit elucubrábamos best to seat the stomach. What was clear is that we continue to find among all the way to Fran swallowed food and liquid and that the wear was brutal. Although, in those hard times he was put in the shoes of people who suffer from the effects of chemotherapy, I relived what it was like on the other side, ie, reviving what was to care for someone who is repulsed by the food due to the effects of chemotherapy, but you have to 'force' to eat to keep going. Which means a constant search to find an alternative that does not produce feed and repugnance. See the faces of frustration from Fran and a wink of disagreement each time we stopped and had to eat something, made me relive many sensations already forgotten. It was only seconds, as Gaizka in his role as 'bad' it was such a joke to eat and drink in the end could not help but let a smile and eat food. It was then remembered why we were there, the pain was controlled and could be stopped at any time and if I knew Fran was still I could, which soothed and comforted me greatly.
Each and every one of the people with whom we had a meeting at the Trial commenting on the theme that the timing was not ideal. Some assume that all these problems could have avoided doing it all at one time, or having deferred the challenge for the weather conditions were more favorable. Would have been nice to have another option or a second car for support, but it was not, the truth is that when you do this in a professional and when the availability of the people involved depends on your work, you have no choice and only option is to pull on with whatever comes.
While our concern for the welfare of background Fran was always in our thoughts, it was not all concerns, the trial gave rise to many situations that made us have a good time, laugh and enjoy. Given the problems the remedy was the optimism, it was with us in the luggage and accompanied us throughout the journey. Was always room for a joke or a joke. I still remember
and I laugh ... standing in Benalmadena, Estepona food prepared us for the progress cogiésemos, pasta especially for Fran settle the stomach. With the haste with which we did not fall in catching covered, and of course, these were within the "dispensable things" when we switched car. One of the exchangeable lenses for glasses of Fran's what served as a shed, rather than eating, before anything was 'fish' for food. 'Gaizka, I told you no good to throw the cutlery was not worth it' and yet laughter, laughter and more laughter.
The car was a hodgepodge of articles, organized disorder had not parked at a flea market out of tune or rolling on the road to catch the ferry to Tangier. The things we carried in baskets in which the goods were distributed with much affection, and at first placed in the van where he could distinguish each thing at a glance. To put them in the car we had to play Tetris and Gaizka, proactive and organized person by nature and I've also learned a lot, was not very happy with the first location of things, so when the situation Fran gave us barracks, I took all of the car and relocated in a more optimal. It was admirable things pulled and relocated within the basket without stopping to care for Fran. This situation happened a few times more, and he did it was innately curious to see it. Eventually it became clear that the car did not give more of himself, and had to leave for the impossible, that there is space, so we ended to sharpen their photographic memory. If I had played the game of find the pairs after the trial could have beat anyone.
Fran Stop to sleep a little or break the dream was a poem. The car had overturned seats and all was back to boot, so there were just two seats, we occupied Gaizka and me. We must not be very smart to do the math, when I needed Fran least one was outside the car, but usually both were leaving the car. Fran allegedly breaks would be lying on a mattress inside the van, I never thought that would sit with the car running to continue operating the air conditioning, emergency lights and sounding placed inside the car to avoid further ... that basically we did not care to close your eyes or not, the car was a fair Can you think what better place to sleep?
Another handicap was our communication with Fran over the walkies, it occurred unilaterally, that is, he could hear him but we do not, so we knew we had understood when he nodded his head. The talkies are very useful because it allowed us to 'sing' the route to avoid a mistake. It was amazing when we got into a town or city large, where the car was stuck and the bike could go on the road, having lost sight even without knowing exactly where he was, Gaizka gave some indications on the walkie and the few minutes we had it back up. Me was not so difficult for me to talk to a machine horrors, say for example a voice mail, or in this case speak to a walkie unanswered. Later we stick a good laugh because Fran said Gaizka not silent or under water and I was like that of 'radio-taxi. " Still, how many absurd things we say on the radio? ... many, especially Gaizka that inventive! Situations
subrrealistas although there were many are things you do not stop to think at the time, just go and you better not thinking a lot about not to collapse. Of course, since I came up with the van and the end of the road I go with a constant concern for France, not in the sporting sense, his legs are powerful, but rather the concern is about the fragility of view on the bike between both to the passing car or a truck. I also took
learning the sport, not just France, but also Gaizka. Fran was amazing to see the bike riding, long time spent mesmerized by the cadence of his ride, it was amazing with the different molding was land. Also, if I had not marroncillos Gaizka was explaining technical aspects and why certain things were done. But undoubtedly the most important learning is the power of the mind. How many difficulties not found Fran? How many times would not think to leave everything on and off the bike? When there is nothing more and we are alone we are left to believe in ourselves, believe that we, out prejudices and preconceptions, have faith in yourself and move on. Do not forget the costs of Montoro, after so many kilometers and many problems overcome, was continue walking alone and in the worst hours of the day to reach rising Montoro Cardenas. It was a very exciting way, which already had joined us to encourage local people to Fran. Screaming and cheering all we could and though he struggled with himself for not getting off the bike got overcome the toughest stretch of the whole way. What he did not lose focus and move on without getting off the bike I do not know, but it was impressive to see his face. I think we all had bated breath and blow when we knew we had dealt successfully with a party, I think, harder than the Attack. After that him enjoying the company of many cyclists who joined a little later to accompany cardeña to the village was a delight for our eyes and our hearts. When we finally arrived it was all mixed feelings to the situations experienced by all, mingled with the satisfaction of a job completed, I came down as expected but as they could never imagine. I will never forget, when we were just 'the just' warm embrace of Ruth, Fran's wife who had lived the challenge in the distance and was the fourth member of the team.
Thanks to everyone who gave us a hand by the way: friends, family ... all were there to accompany us and made me feel great and beloved. Thanks again. The people who followed us through internet and gave us many touching moments like Fran read the comments over the radio, or mail of appreciation for the gesture of Fran, who came from a mother whose son had gone ahead of cancer. He made us all mourn. Thanks to Fran's family, welcomed us as if we were one of a family. And finally to all residents of the village of Villanueva de Córdoba for their attention. Thank you all for believing.
Special moments were those stops where we were three and they used to coincide with the dinner, the couple of showers that we could see by the way, appreciated how things are done everyday moments, surprised faces or disbelief from people when asked after seeing that bike 'so weird' and we did what we were doing. The car park when we stopped for dinner in Pozo Alcon, were the parties of the people, and we are down to Fran playing the guitar. Resolve things on the fly and hit the phone. There were many things, experiences that do not fit here and that we will remember little by little.
When all this started I do not know which I expected, I do know is not expecting it so that all the sensations experienced caught me by surprise and all I can say I enjoyed what we did but I do not know exactly why. That every time I ride in the car I agreement, and that makes me want to give emergency lights. I'm wanting more and that between us has created a special bond. One thing that I have no doubt that these are the things that feed the soul.
There are a reflection that appears on Grey's Anatomy and I like it because it reveals what is in a certain way, those things are because they have to be.
"The ties that bind us are sometimes impossible to explain. We connect, even when it seems that the links should be changed. Some links defy distance and time, and logic ... just because some relationships are doomed. (Grey's Anatomy) "
d tattooed for life and try and translate it along the chronicle . Cuando hablamos del proyecto para ver si podía mover algún tipo de ayuda en beneficio del reto nunca pensé que yo misma, es decir mi persona, podría echar una mano. Aún recuerdo el día en que Gaizka me dijo, ¿acompañarías a Fran en la Contrarreloj? Aunque no sabía muy bien cómo, tenía claro cuál era la respuesta, un rotundo 'sí'. Quería participar y ayudar en este genial proyecto y haría todo lo que estuviera en mi mano.
A no más de dos semanas de que el reto comenzara, todo empezó a coger forma. Hicimos balance de lo que teníamos hasta la fecha y lo que cada uno, a su entender, consideraba que faltaba, de modo que pudiéramos resolver flecos, ya que had little time to get everything tied down. From the beginning I felt very comfortable, and the preparations were all one. We were a unique team for our obvious differences: different characters, different profiles, but the truth is that we fit perfectly.
"What makes
happy? Be useful to others. Not only was the sport but also would raise funds for a cancer association and that motivated me even more. When people asked me was going to do on vacation and told him of the Counter-clock threw his hands to his head, 'four days in a car? But you are going to give a palizón as hell, right? " Precisely this was the least I thought. Rather, my head was spinning with how innovative it was the test and it seemed like a great idea and an experience, where if we could guess the end, nothing was written down and knew it could happen. Time for the truth and after many emails we finally saw the faces in Villanueva de Córdoba. Nerves the night before made us to sleep rather little, and almost without realizing we are rolling, and embarked on the adventure and trying to adapt as quickly as possible. At the moment we despistábamos a little Fran 'we lost'.
When 70 kilometers from the exit the van began to smoke did not give us time or come to us down, no one thought about the possibility of leaving and going to a thousand heads looking for another option that was viable. The solution was to change the van of a passenger car, which allowed us to move forward but with a considerable reduction of space, which meant an additional difficulty.
Having to wait in the shop where we took the van and then back track to pick up the new support vehicle was one of the most difficult to bear. It was as if he wanted to go sideways but you're shooting for another go. Fran, already knowing what had happened, continued the challenge in self-sufficiency for what I estimated would be about 3 hours minimum, I actually was going in the opposite direction by the 'new' car for support. Gaizka while fighting with the workshop and to hurry and calculated the best way to distribute food, tools, spare parts, etc. that were not expendable and that the space allowed to take with us. Leave behind important things like the front wheel and spare bike, but in this case, would to be dispensable.
We were moving again and pr
absolute ioridad Fran was to find that we do not quitábamos of the head, and who has already warned us by phone was in very poor condition due to dehydration. Had he done to Dred, Fran could not choose a more solitary road at that point along the route, did not have any bar or to purchase season in liquid or food, the firm was in bad shape and we see the miles pass in the car between curves, slopes, hills and potholes, we were afraid to find it lying in the gutter just around any corner. It was so overcome by itself the part of the road leading into a private estate that allowed him to reach the next village, Alanis. Once all together and with the late afternoon we went molding what would be the usual reason in the trial, although we knew that would happen Fran dehydration bill you later or earlier. After intense afternoon sun, the arrival of the moonlit night gave way to calm, but as dawn approached, all became more ugly and grateful that the day put an end to the harsh morning at that we had to face, especially the first, all part of the Cadiz coastline up to Algeciras and Fran struggling with his stomach to take food out stop.
The result of hydration to counteract the negative effects of lack of fluid and food the first day made the stomach Fran came a time to say 'we are here. " And while an incredible beat this bump in the road, dragged some sequels like 'disgusted' with certain foods and drinks. We rode in the car and what would suit elucubrábamos best to seat the stomach. What was clear is that we continue to find among all the way to Fran swallowed food and liquid and that the wear was brutal. Although, in those hard times he was put in the shoes of people who suffer from the effects of chemotherapy, I relived what it was like on the other side, ie, reviving what was to care for someone who is repulsed by the food due to the effects of chemotherapy, but you have to 'force' to eat to keep going. Which means a constant search to find an alternative that does not produce feed and repugnance. See the faces of frustration from Fran and a wink of disagreement each time we stopped and had to eat something, made me relive many sensations already forgotten. It was only seconds, as Gaizka in his role as 'bad' it was such a joke to eat and drink in the end could not help but let a smile and eat food. It was then remembered why we were there, the pain was controlled and could be stopped at any time and if I knew Fran was still I could, which soothed and comforted me greatly.
Each and every one of the people with whom we had a meeting at the Trial commenting on the theme that the timing was not ideal. Some assume that all these problems could have avoided doing it all at one time, or having deferred the challenge for the weather conditions were more favorable. Would have been nice to have another option or a second car for support, but it was not, the truth is that when you do this in a professional and when the availability of the people involved depends on your work, you have no choice and only option is to pull on with whatever comes.
While our concern for the welfare of background Fran was always in our thoughts, it was not all concerns, the trial gave rise to many situations that made us have a good time, laugh and enjoy. Given the problems the remedy was the optimism, it was with us in the luggage and accompanied us throughout the journey. Was always room for a joke or a joke. I still remember
and I laugh ... standing in Benalmadena, Estepona food prepared us for the progress cogiésemos, pasta especially for Fran settle the stomach. With the haste with which we did not fall in catching covered, and of course, these were within the "dispensable things" when we switched car. One of the exchangeable lenses for glasses of Fran's what served as a shed, rather than eating, before anything was 'fish' for food. 'Gaizka, I told you no good to throw the cutlery was not worth it' and yet laughter, laughter and more laughter. The car was a hodgepodge of articles, organized disorder had not parked at a flea market out of tune or rolling on the road to catch the ferry to Tangier. The things we carried in baskets in which the goods were distributed with much affection, and at first placed in the van where he could distinguish each thing at a glance. To put them in the car we had to play Tetris and Gaizka, proactive and organized person by nature and I've also learned a lot, was not very happy with the first location of things, so when the situation Fran gave us barracks, I took all of the car and relocated in a more optimal. It was admirable things pulled and relocated within the basket without stopping to care for Fran. This situation happened a few times more, and he did it was innately curious to see it. Eventually it became clear that the car did not give more of himself, and had to leave for the impossible, that there is space, so we ended to sharpen their photographic memory. If I had played the game of find the pairs after the trial could have beat anyone.
Fran Stop to sleep a little or break the dream was a poem. The car had overturned seats and all was back to boot, so there were just two seats, we occupied Gaizka and me. We must not be very smart to do the math, when I needed Fran least one was outside the car, but usually both were leaving the car. Fran allegedly breaks would be lying on a mattress inside the van, I never thought that would sit with the car running to continue operating the air conditioning, emergency lights and sounding placed inside the car to avoid further ... that basically we did not care to close your eyes or not, the car was a fair Can you think what better place to sleep?
Another handicap was our communication with Fran over the walkies, it occurred unilaterally, that is, he could hear him but we do not, so we knew we had understood when he nodded his head. The talkies are very useful because it allowed us to 'sing' the route to avoid a mistake. It was amazing when we got into a town or city large, where the car was stuck and the bike could go on the road, having lost sight even without knowing exactly where he was, Gaizka gave some indications on the walkie and the few minutes we had it back up. Me was not so difficult for me to talk to a machine horrors, say for example a voice mail, or in this case speak to a walkie unanswered. Later we stick a good laugh because Fran said Gaizka not silent or under water and I was like that of 'radio-taxi. " Still, how many absurd things we say on the radio? ... many, especially Gaizka that inventive! Situations
subrrealistas although there were many are things you do not stop to think at the time, just go and you better not thinking a lot about not to collapse. Of course, since I came up with the van and the end of the road I go with a constant concern for France, not in the sporting sense, his legs are powerful, but rather the concern is about the fragility of view on the bike between both to the passing car or a truck. I also took
learning the sport, not just France, but also Gaizka. Fran was amazing to see the bike riding, long time spent mesmerized by the cadence of his ride, it was amazing with the different molding was land. Also, if I had not marroncillos Gaizka was explaining technical aspects and why certain things were done. But undoubtedly the most important learning is the power of the mind. How many difficulties not found Fran? How many times would not think to leave everything on and off the bike? When there is nothing more and we are alone we are left to believe in ourselves, believe that we, out prejudices and preconceptions, have faith in yourself and move on. Do not forget the costs of Montoro, after so many kilometers and many problems overcome, was continue walking alone and in the worst hours of the day to reach rising Montoro Cardenas. It was a very exciting way, which already had joined us to encourage local people to Fran. Screaming and cheering all we could and though he struggled with himself for not getting off the bike got overcome the toughest stretch of the whole way. What he did not lose focus and move on without getting off the bike I do not know, but it was impressive to see his face. I think we all had bated breath and blow when we knew we had dealt successfully with a party, I think, harder than the Attack. After that him enjoying the company of many cyclists who joined a little later to accompany cardeña to the village was a delight for our eyes and our hearts. When we finally arrived it was all mixed feelings to the situations experienced by all, mingled with the satisfaction of a job completed, I came down as expected but as they could never imagine. I will never forget, when we were just 'the just' warm embrace of Ruth, Fran's wife who had lived the challenge in the distance and was the fourth member of the team.
Thanks to everyone who gave us a hand by the way: friends, family ... all were there to accompany us and made me feel great and beloved. Thanks again. The people who followed us through internet and gave us many touching moments like Fran read the comments over the radio, or mail of appreciation for the gesture of Fran, who came from a mother whose son had gone ahead of cancer. He made us all mourn. Thanks to Fran's family, welcomed us as if we were one of a family. And finally to all residents of the village of Villanueva de Córdoba for their attention. Thank you all for believing.
Special moments were those stops where we were three and they used to coincide with the dinner, the couple of showers that we could see by the way, appreciated how things are done everyday moments, surprised faces or disbelief from people when asked after seeing that bike 'so weird' and we did what we were doing. The car park when we stopped for dinner in Pozo Alcon, were the parties of the people, and we are down to Fran playing the guitar. Resolve things on the fly and hit the phone. There were many things, experiences that do not fit here and that we will remember little by little.
When all this started I do not know which I expected, I do know is not expecting it so that all the sensations experienced caught me by surprise and all I can say I enjoyed what we did but I do not know exactly why. That every time I ride in the car I agreement, and that makes me want to give emergency lights. I'm wanting more and that between us has created a special bond. One thing that I have no doubt that these are the things that feed the soul.
There are a reflection that appears on Grey's Anatomy and I like it because it reveals what is in a certain way, those things are because they have to be.
"The ties that bind us are sometimes impossible to explain. We connect, even when it seems that the links should be changed. Some links defy distance and time, and logic ... just because some relationships are doomed. (Grey's Anatomy) "
