Out of the Frying Pan, into the Sea

“If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks” Michael Jordan

As they are wont to do, a roadblock appeared and blocked my path.  An obstacle larger than the Arch to Arc; a barrier wider even than the channel.

I mentioned that only 10 people have completed this challenge.  Just 10.  And so it came as some surprise when I went on the website only to find the event fully booked.  For 3 years.

George Weinberg wrote that “the cure for most obstacles is being decisive”.  I have experience the converse: indecision has been the cause of my own obstacles.  First it happened with the Ironman.  And now, again, with the Arch to Arc.  My fear of failure delayed my registration and the window of entry – of opportunity – slammed shut.

The discovery took the wind out of sails.  My training, which had started enthustically and energetically, became a chore.  Unsurprisingly, the volume began to plummet.  I didn’t swim for a month.  Perhaps, I thought, fate was telling me not to be so stupid...

But I didn’t completely give up.  I did everything I could to find a way over, around, under the roadblock.  I enquired about organising the challenge myself.  I got in touch with the Navy.  No luck.  I eventually swallowed my pride and pleaded with the company.  They said they’d “see what they could do”.  It didn’t look promising.  In fact it looked pretty bleak.

But then a glimmer of light: a sliver of hope.  They might be able to help, they said.  “We’ll let you know”.

I waited with baited breath.  Days passed.  Weeks passed. And then an email: “Enduroman are willing to confirm that time is available for you to attempt a solo Enduroman Arch to Arc”.  I was delighted.  And terrified.

Suddenly it was real.  Suddenly I had to decide.  Well, what could I do?

This Summer I will be attempting to join those 10 men and women who have completed the Arch to Arc.