It's now just one week until I leave on my epic charity Mowerthon.
In fact one week from today I hope to be at least 60-70 miles up country en route to Plueville, where I'm planning my first overnight stop.
However that target is now in doubt after I found out at the end of last week that the Etesia tractor I will calling home for the duration of my trip, doesn't actually do 20mph as I thought.
The tractor's top speed is in reality only 18kph; and that will make one hell of a difference to my planned itinerary.
Pleauville is 228km from my home. Driving at 18kmh all the way will mean I have a minimum journey time of 12.66 hours; and that doesn't take into consideration food breaks or rest.
I'm a pretty resolute person and when I say I will do something and set my mind to it, I will. This minor setback will probably make me even more determined but it's clearly going to be a huge test.
It's not just the physical stress of sitting in one seat for such long periods day after day but I will have to counter the mental challenge too.
Looking at the daylight times for this time of year it looks like I can expect at least twelve hours of daylight driving time and depending where I might be starting and finishing there may even be the opportunity to travel whilst it's dark, as long as it is safe. The machine is fitted with lights and a flashing beacon.
I do have to be realistic and in all honesty what I had planned to take me 10-14 days is probably going to be in excess of the upper expected journey time.
With television, radio and media commitments I guess I have to be resigned to the task taking longer.
I am pleased to that many people have offered support during my trip. From a bed and a meal through to help with fuel and other costs. So relying on a lot of good will I will get this done.
Of course, I also have to keep sight of why I am doing this challenge in the first place and that is to raise money for people in the landscape and horticulture industry who have fallen on hard times.
If you are following my journey, please think about making a donation to my cause.
Donate here: www.justgiving.com/mowerthon
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