The team divided into several groups, the first took a thoroughly relaxing approach to the day. After heading to the Fat Urchin in Jolly Harbour for their daily shot of caffeine, they lounged by the beach, soaking in the Vitamin D and turning many pages of their books.
The second group departed early in the morning for several hours of fishing. Sasha, Matt and Nigel joined the Chapman-Sheath clan on their family fishing trip. After a couple of snapped lines in the first two hours, the crew resigned themselves to enjoying the beers on the boat and accepting their fishing fate. Surprisingly, two catches came in quick succession in the final hour on the boat; with the Mahi-Mahi putting up a valiant fight on the sea, but succumbing to the raw power of the England Target Rifle Team. The boat captain left with the two fish and the team’s money – what a pirate!
The third group decided to climb up Mount Obama, so renamed to commemorate the 44th US president in 2009. The route required a drive down what can only be described as a road in name alone, demanding precise off-road ability. After a very arduous climb, through what could only be generously described as a ‘trail’, through the beautiful dense jungle of Antigua. Ascending 1400 feet they crested the summit, only to be met with an “authorised personnel only” sign. Not to be dismayed, they took some liberties with the word ‘authorised’ and found a suitable viewpoint to gaze over the stunning landscape of the volcanic island. The descent, as it would turn out, would be far from simple, creating a loop. This involved navigating a new trail which took skill and cunning to reach the bottom safely, due in no small part to the dense loose leaves that covered the steep decline. The brave adventurers, with very few incidents, made it back to the hotel and swiftly refreshed themselves from the 4.2 mile trek.
And the final group took a car for a trip round the island which included a short boat ride out to a sand bar to take the opportunity to interact with stingrays (up to about 1.5m wide!) in crystal clear waters. This was followed up by a quick trip to Mama’s Pasta, and home in time to join in the evening water volleyball with the wider team.
Lollipop count remains at 35.
All is well.
D+12 – Yet another day in paradise.