Sunday in the Costa

The sun is shining here at Fieldbase, in fact the ground is looking positively dry for the first time in months. This morning we are trawling the internet looking for news from the outside world for Radio Raleigh this afternoon. As it stands the Alpha groups may be in for a bit of a long one as Helena and I try to outdo each other with hollywood gossip and other interesting news stories - so far Brad and Angelina are leading our top stories (sad but true)

We heard from all 7 groups this morning with some excellent radio coms and news that everyone is healthy and happy.

Alpha 6 on the beach had the most interesting Sitrep when they told us about their Survivor style plank challenge – the challenge was to stand on a 6 inch tilted plank for as long as possible. The plank off began at 9pm with Kyran, Will, Dirk, Bart and James. By 11.30pm Kyran had seen the light and bailed out, Will continued until 2am, while James and the Dutchies stayed on the plank until 5am!!!

The other great news is that the Macho trekkers did indeed get the view that we were hoping for. They reported clear skies and magical views from the top of the Dragon. They certainly deserved it. Today they trek on and are heading to the delightful community of Alto Reflis. There are lots of hills in this section, but the views are spectacular,

Alpha 3 are on their way up to the pylons as I write this. Having sorted out their food drop on Friday, their bags were particularly heavy yesterday and as Fran said the day was not flat as promised by Ross!

Alpha 4 have returned from the beach and are today getting back into some jungle action. Vee is on camp duty and is working on some creative recipes to keep the troops happy. Rain is threatening, so fingers crossed the basha beds are waterproof!

Alpha 9 have returned from Panama where they were supposed to pick up the materials for the roof. Unfortunately delays on the supply side meant that they returned empty handed, but as always in good spirits after their mini adventure. Today they will play in the local football competition and the materials will arrive tomorrow, just in time for them to finish the building.

Alpha 5 had a great day yesterday, celebrating James’ birthday after a hard days work. Today they will call in from the beach, so we are expecting them to be even jollier than usual.

And finally Alpha 1 had a tough day yesterday, a guided section through some serious uphill jungle. They wild camped last night down by the river and this morning have climbed out of the valley to the look out point where they will see what is ahead of them in the next few days.

Here at fieldbase we are preparing for the final washup including the highly anticipated Golden Mess Tin Awards. We are also happy to report that our pig which has been well fed on our leftovers, is looking bigger by the day, and indeed tastier!

That’s it from me, Lizzy and Szeman are back today and Amy and Jackster tomorrow so we should have some photos for you. Until then stay safe and have a fantastic Sunday evening.

Anna