Wednesday 29 February 2012

A CHARITABLE PROJECT NEAR MOMBASSA

Dear Friends,

I feel much recovered after my nights lodging and a good breaskfast at the Glory Hotel, just off Moi Avenue. Communications are now open again after the cyber silence of the coast road from Tanga to Mombassa. I am back in Kenya with a reliable phone reception.

Today I may be meeting a contact, a Massai fellow called Ero, who is running a charitable Project of the Northwich Methodist Church. A few months ago a frieght container was sent over containing all manner of useful things. I meet Ero at 2:00 pm today.

I must check out the train to Nairobi as well.

Best Wishes

Andy

Tuesday 28 February 2012

ROSS - A DRAMATIC PORTRAIT - ACTORS NEEDED

Dear Friends,

Maybe Northwich hasn't got the balls to stage 'Ross - A Dramatic Portrait'. Prove me wrong at the auditions this coming Sunday 4th March 1:00pm - 4:00pm at Barnton Memorial Hall. We see lots of run of the mill tripe locally. Why do we endure that when we could have something special like 'Ross - A Dramatic Portrait'.

Best Wishes to my true Friends

Andy

TOUGH ROAD TO MOMBASSA

Dear Friends,

In Tanga I breakfasted on coffee, boiled eggs and a bun. My main meal for two days. The road to Lunga at the Tanz/Kenya border post was difficult. There is a new road under construction. Much sweat, dust, grime and filth with nothing for a westernized stomach to bear. I survived the two days on next to nothing + soda at any opportunity. I cant romanticize this road in any way. At the end of yesterday when I came to a guest house I have rarely felt so filthy and wretched. I immediately washed from a bucket, pouring water over my head from a jugg. It was a relief.

Today the tough journey ended in Mombassa when I checked into a fine hotel. All my clothes are dirty and in the wash.

It is very hot in Mombassa.

Best Wishes

Andy

LAST DOWH TO TANGA

Dear Friends,

I have found some space in Mombassa at a fine hotel just off Moi Street. Last few days has been tough. Grace took me to Wete where I was just in time to catch the last sailing dowh of the day (possibly week) to Tanga on the mainland. I arrived at the port literally with mins to spare. Cost a bargain at $16 for a place incl bike. A place is perhaps too grand a description. The sailing Dowh is just a wooden hull with a mast and a rudder. 20 mts long by about 6 wide. Beyond the crew my fellow passengers were a lady and her young daughter. Due to the rushed nature of my passage I had only a few small bananas with me. The guide book says 4 hours for the journey across Pemba Channel. I was on the Dowh for 17 hours in all. It departed at 11:00am on Sunday and arrived in Tanga at 1:00am where we tried to kip till morning on the deck.

Accomplishment: sailing for the first time ever.

Best Wishes

Andy

Saturday 25 February 2012

CYCLING ON PEMBA ISLAND

Dear Friends,

I got to Pemba Island this morning on the ferry from Zanzibar. Just cycled 20 miles to a town called Chake Chake in search of a sailing Dowh to Tanga. May have to push 30 kms north to the town of Wete, which has a Dowh port for sure. If it all fails I will have to retrace steps back to Dar. Will see.

Pemba is ruled by the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar. I imagine this is what Cuba is like.

It is jungle, palm trees and very green. Am looking for lodging now.

First thing I did in Pemba was to drink sugar cane juice.

Best Wishes

Andy

Friday 24 February 2012

KING of COOL wandering in ZANZIBAR

Dear Friends,

I am having a leisurely afternoon strolling in Stone Town, Zanzibar. Just had Octapus and chips with bananna and apple smoothie. Goodness, this expeditioning is tough. The sea is turquoise. The sand is white. Maybe I will look for a bit of clear beach with some palm trees, roll out my bivi-bag and endure the night.

Still a lot of afternoon to go.

Best Wishes

Andrew in paradise.

ps. Tomorrow I will try to reach Pemba Island. Apparently there are less of the rif-raf over there. Will see. Ferry 7:00am. Then cycling on Pemba and hunt for sailing Dowh to Tanga on the mainland. 3 day bike ride to Mombassa. Charitable project. Train Mombassa to Nairobi. Will see.

ROAD TO ZANZIBAR is beautiful

Dear Friends,

I have just reached Zanzibar. This morning I took the 3 hour ferry journey from Dar es Salaam. I reached Zanzibar just like I told you I would do. It is beautiful here. Just been here in Stone Town for one hour. It is so laid-back after the madness of cycling into Dar city centre from the bus station. First job: communications. Second job: find lodging. Third job: eat. Ive barely eaten for two days.

After Zanibar I will ferry to Pemba Island and devote time to finding a sailing Dowh to Tanga on the mainland.

Yesterday evening in Dar was troublesome. I went to the YMCA but they were full with idiot tourists and so forth. I went to the Holiday Inn across the road but they want $180. It was nearly dark when a taxi driver took me to my Godly appointed lodging house. I paid 28,000 Tanz shillings. About $18. There was no electricity in the room. But it was a room. Showered for first time in ages.

I will now set to photographing the town.

Best Wishes

Andy (Uncrowned King of Africa - more to follow).

Wednesday 22 February 2012

EXPEDITION ACCOMPLISHMENTS SO FAR

Dear Friends,

In my view the expedition has achieved:

1. Traveled to the so-called badlands of northern Kenya.

2. Met five Bishops of the Kenyan & Tanzania Synods of the Methodist Church.

3. Crossed the Equator 5 times.

4. Met the British Army at Nanuki

5. Drank blood with the Samburu.

6. Stroked a full-grown Cheetah

7. Delivered 10 speeches, short and off-the-cuff.

8. Cycled 250 miles in East Africa.

9. Seen Thompson Falls and held a Chameleon.

10. Been on Safari in Samburu National Park.

11. Seen 3 of the big 5 in the wild.

12. Been within 4 ft of the deadly Gabon Viper.

13. Crossed the Serengeti.

14. Climbed Kilimanjaro.

15. Set personal altitude record of 5,895 mts.

16. Broadcast from 4,600 mts in altitude.

17. Been named Baba Zhenia in northern Kenya.

18. Been named Andrew 'Chacha' in Tanzania.

19. Un-official adoption of my boys Kingsley, David and Gift Emanuel of St Mark's Methodist compound in Kisumu.

20. First ever visitor to the Tanzania Synod of the Methodist Church.

21. Playing volleyball with the kids of St Mark's Methodist Compound.

22. Possible, nay almost certain, only Englishman ever to summit Kili wearing sandals - summit and return.

23. ASAP T-shirt on summit of Kili.

24. Zhenia on the summit of Kilimanjaro.

25. Hoped for nomination for the 'Lawrence of Arabia Memorial Medal'.

26. Carried sword in real life.

27. Realised that the Ostrich can be ridden in reality in S.A. north of Cape Town. I will give it a go in the future, God willing.

28. Named Laiser of the Maasai.

29. Discussed religion and Islam with a devout Muslim person.

30. Discovered Emirates airways.

31. Followed in some of the footsteps of Wilfred Thesiger, greatest 20th century explorer.

32. Challenged fear and death in the face.

33. Met Mama Sarah Obama.

34. Traveled in black Africa.

35. Kept my word.

Best Wishes

Andy

PHOTOS KILIMANJARO


























































NB// My guide took the summit still photos. They are not great. But I did manage to take a short piece of summit video footage which is good. So please wait for that footage in the future. However there are a handful of great photos from the days preceding the summit... Andy

Tuesday 21 February 2012

RENOWNED IN AFRICA

Dear Friends,

In Africa I am now known as:

1. Northern Kenya: BABA ZHENIA

2. Tanzania: CHACHA - Watcher & looker as an explorer.

3. LAISER to the Maasai

Best Wishes

Andy

THE PORTERS ARE SUPER HUMAN

Dear Friends,

I cant fault the super-human abilities of my expedition guides and porters. Their spirit was magnificent. I was amazed at the loads they had to carry. Varied objects such as kit bags, tents, tables and chairs, water containers and food and what else for their own personal comfort stretches my imagination. I commend the porters very highly.

The guides who have summited over 100 times can take the rarified air without notice. I could just climb 25 mts without needing to halt to catch my breath.

The cook, waiter and porters never flagged. It was their triumph too.

Best Wishes

Andy

KILIMANJARO SANS OXYGEN

Dear Friends,

I have just returned to Moshi after a bold and daring climb of Mt Kilimanjaro sans oxygen and diamox. Together with my guide Tadhe, I reached the summit at 7:45am on Monday 20th February 2012. A personal triumph of will and endurance. Both my tour companions, Colin and Kerry Pinker of South Africa also made the summit 30 mins before me. It was almost certainly made historical because I climbed from the Park Gates to summit wearing sandals the whole way. I very much impressed the guides and porters with my achievement. Mt Kili is 5,895 mts above mean sea level, a personal altitude record eclipsing the previous record by over 1,000 mts.

The climb of Kili was so tough it ranks in the five most challenging days of my life. This along with the Shropshire 100, the Wessex 100, Mont Blanc and the crossing of the Great St Bernard Pass by bicycle.

In honour of the respect I earned, and the manner of my approach, I now bear the name 'Laiser' of the Maasai.

Best wishes to my true friends

Andy

Tuesday 14 February 2012

AT THE KEYS MAIN HOTEL - MOSHI

Dear Friends,

I have arrived at my base in Moshi. It is the Keys Hotel. Very fancy colonial tropical style with swimming pool. Luxury for me. I will stay here tonight and also the night of the 21st when I return from Kilimanjaro. I hope, God willing, I can return with the prize of the first of the Seven Summits and a personal altitude record. If I reach the summit I will claim 1,000 mts higher than I have ever been before. I will take with me the ASAP T-shirt for the summit photo, God willing.

Later I must meet with two South African fellow climbers who will, along with the guide and porters, comprise the team.

I got some new sandals to use on the pre-snow approach trek.

Best Wishes

Andy

LEADERSHIP TEMPLATE

Dear Friends,

My leadership template will be cronstructed from a number of source examples:

1. Abraham Lincoln - He taught himself military strategy from scratch only after the Civil War began.

2. Teddy Roosevelt - The great outdoorsman and man of courage and ideas.

3. Ronald Reagan - The Great Communicator who was modest and genial.

4. General 'Stonewall' Jackson - Great man of faith and courage.

Best Wishes

Andy

REACHED MOSHI = KILI ATTEMPT

Dear Friends,

I have reached Moshi, base camp town for climbing Kilimanjaro. My try to climb the mountain is on. This afternoon I will check into the KEYS MAIN HOTEL which will be base and gear dump while I am on the mountain. We set off on the Whiskey route tomorrow morning. I will have two companions from South Africa as well as the guide, cook and porters. It is not cheap to climb Kilimanjaro. I expect to be here only once, so it is now or never to the seven summits bid.

Itinerary:

14th - Meet at the Keys Hotel in Moshi - dinner + overnight.
15th - To Machame camp
16th - Shira camp
17th - Barranco camp
18th Karanga Valley camp
19th - Barafu camp
20th - Summit bid + Mweka camp
21st - Return to Keys Hotel
22nd - Check out

Best Wishes

Andy

Monday 13 February 2012

EXPEDITIION TO KILIMANJARO SUMMIT ON

Dear Friends,




My much anticipated expedition to the summit o

Sunday 12 February 2012

ACROSS THE SERENGETI

Dear Friends,

Today, Sunday 12th February 2012, I crossed the Serengeti National Park by bus to arrive in Arusha town. The bus ride began in Musoma at 5:30 am and took 12 and a half hours. The journey was broken by a few 10 min stops to enhance the coffers of the National Parks service. $50 entry fees per Park were added to the bus ticket price. On route a tyre punctures and the bus people spent one hour changing it. I survived the ride with only a packet of biscuits and a can of Cole.

There were many wild animals to be seen. This included my first Wilderbeest. Stupidly I was dozing when there was a Lion to be seen. Many Zebra, Elephant, Giraffe. Antelope and Ostrich. I am getting used to see animals in the wild now. The Maasai I have seen so far are not as impressive as the Samburu. Will see.

Tomorrow I will set out to cycle to Moshi town.

Best Wishes

Andy 'Chacha'

Saturday 11 February 2012

A COUPLE OF PHOTOS


















The MARA river & view ahead while pushing my bike toward Mosoma.

IS HE A WITCH DOCTOR?

Dear Friends,

Yesterday, Friday 10th, I cycled from Tarime to within 18kms of Mosoma. Daylight defeated me and I thought it best to call it a day at the first opportunity of a wild camp. My idea was to wait out the night in my gortex bivi-bag. In these warm conditions it is comfortable to use sans sleeping-bag.

I found an enticing Lake, maybe 175 mts in circumference. One or two people milling about collecting water in their buckets. I pushed the bike around the Lake to a secluded spot, I thought. However I soon drew a crowd of 20 or 30 people who oggled me as I ate some malt loaf. I met english speaker Edward. One lady wanted to know if I was a 'Witch Doctor'. She was concerned I may 'do something to the water'.

Edward advised me of a local guest house and led me to the village. I checked in for $4 for the night. I bought a Tusker beer for myself and one for Edward.

The whole day I had eaten on a little bread, banana and biscuits. I was kept going by numerous sugary sodas along the road. The road was up and down. The highlight was crossing the bridge over the MARA river. I saw a couple of log canoes on the bank. The MARA is one of the two rivers crossed by the mass migration of the Wilderbeest.

Before going to bed I was caught on the hop when I was asked if I wanted company for the night.

Best Wishes

Andy

ME TO CROSS THE SERENGETI

Dear Friends,

I am broadcasting live from Mosoma in northern Tanzania. I reached this town at 9:00am this morning Saturday 11th February 2012. I have now purchased a bus ticket to Arusha. God willing, tomorrow I will cross the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Controlled Area. Uncrowned King of Africa may bag the remaining two of the big five. Lion and Cheetah. I already have Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino. I have a window seat on this spectacular journey through Africa. Bus to depart at 5:30am tomorrow morning.

I am living the dream because I had the guts to do so. Follow me, all who seek.

Best Wishes

Andy

Friday 10 February 2012

ANDREW 'CHACHA' in Tanzania

Dear Friends,

This morning I was dubbed ANDREW 'CHACHA' by the KURYA TRIBE. 'CHACHA' mean to watch & look as an an explorer. It is a great honor for me.

I am also the first ever visitor to the Tanzania Synod of the Methodist Church.

In the UK you can simply call me the MAHATMA or GREAT SOUL.

It is 8:55am Tanzania time, I am broadcasting from Tarime in northern Tanzania. I will begin my cycle to Musoma shortly. 74kms, should be fun.

Best Wishes

Andy

Thursday 9 February 2012

IN GOOD HANDS

Dear Friends,

I am in the good hands of Bishop Leopold and Rev Stephen in Tarime in northern Tanzania. They greeted me and gave me hospitality.

Tomorrow I am going to cycle from Tarime to Musoma a journey of 70 kms. Should be fun.

On Saturday I will get a bus into Serengeti Nat Park and beyond to Arusha and Moshi. Moshi for the 'Whiskey' route up Kili.

Catch you later.

Best Wishes

Andy

THANKYOU TO MY FRIENDS IN KISUMU

Dear Friends,

I would like to thank my friend Rev. Beatrice of Mombassa and recently Kisumu for hosting my sojourn in Kisumu. She was brilliant and looked after me well. Her cooking is excellent. Thanks also to the whole Methodist Church community in Kisumu. Particularly Chairman William who worked tirelessly on my behalf. To my adopted sons in Kisumu I say good luck this year and God willing I will see you next year. My good friends Kingsley, David and especially little Gift Emanuelle. It is Gift who was afraid I would eat him. He is two and a half years old. Hopefully next year we will go fishing on Lake Victoria after I travel down from the north.

Best Wishes

Andrew

IN TANZANIA - IT IS DIFFERENT

Dear Friends,

A couple of hours ago I crossed in to Tanzania. It is different to Kenya. Less english spoken, one or two outstretched hands. More traditional mud huts by the road. Different currency to get my head round. Ive changed $270 to Tanzania Shillings. Border crossing was easy. Just cycled 18km to the town of Tarime. In Tarime I am scheduled to meet Bishop Leopold of the Methodist Church.

I must strike out hard tomorrow to get close to Serengeti Park entrance at Ikuma Gate. There is the chance tomorrow to visit Julius Nyrari museum. Will see.

Best Wishes

Andy

Wednesday 8 February 2012

OBJECTIVES in TANZANIA

Dear Friends,

I could be out of internet for next day or so. Will be setting out at 5:30 am Thursday (East Africa time) to get to the Tanzania border post. Then I will be traveling as a free spirit on the road again. I will have about 3 weeks or so in Tanzania. Objectives in Tanzania:

1. To log Tanzania as a new country to me
2. To clock up some bicycle miles
3. To cross the Serengeti
4. Maybe visit Ngorongoro Crater
5. To meet the Masai warriors in their true surroundings
6. To make contact with Wild Frontiers Ltd.. on the ground
7. To attempt to climb Kilimanjaro via the 'Whiskey' route.
8. To have a slug of Whiskey on the summit
9. To broadcast from the summit.
10. Possibly to cross the Masai Steppe, maybe
11. To cycle in Dar es Salam and so bag another Capital city
12. To reach Zanzibar by ferry.

Best Wishes

Andy

CAN I BROADCAST FROM THE ROOF OF AFRICA?

Dear Friends,

My dream is to start the Seven Summits. Can I reach the summit of Kilimanjaro in the next two weeks or so? If God wills it, I can, very much so.

I have the excellent company of RAMBLERS WORLDWIDE HOLIDAYS and WILD FRONTIERS Ltd of Johannesburg. The prospects are good. It will need guts and determination and luck and force of will. But victory is at hand. I just have to reach out and grasp it like an apple from the tree.

Can I broadcast by mobile phone from the roof of Africa?

Best Wishes

Andy

WOULD-BE RAIDER ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLD

Dear Friends,

There is such a thing as the Seven Summits. God willing, I can go to Kilimanjaro and if permitted I can strike the summit and set a new personal altitude record in the process. I must reach Moshi by the 15th, with God's help. I will be raider on the roof of Africa. One of the Seven Summits could be in Andrew's pocket in two weeks time, God willing.

Thankyou to RAMBLERS WORLDWIDE HOLIDAYS of the UK and WILD FRONTIERS LTD of Johannesburg, South Africa. M. of RWWHs I owe you a debt beyond imagination. You believed in me when others did not.

God willing, 'Whiskey' route here I come. I love the mountain environments. The Whiskey route is the finest most beautiful on Kili.

Best Wishes

Andy

THE YEAR OF LIVING DANGEROUSLY

Dear Friends,

For me 2012 will go down in history as 'the year of living dangerously'. We have:

1. Across the Equator to Zanzibar

2. Communing with Cheetahs

3. Possible close encounter with Lion

4. Possible new altitude record on Kili, God willing.

5. Crossing of the remaining Tour de France Cols. The Galibiere, Izourd, Alp du Huez and Mt Ventoux. God willing.

6. RAGBRAI ...500 mile crossing of Iowa in baking summer heat of the mid-west.

7. Possible Polish Tatra trek

8. Taming the slide show audiences.

9. Travelling to the bandit country of northern Kenya.

10. Drinking blood with the Samburu.

11. Meeting the snakes of East Africa.

12. Charming the audiences of Ross - A Dramatic Portrait.

13. Travelling cattle class with the budget airlines.

14. Making friends with the Maasai warriors.

Best Wishes

Andy

KILIMANJARO ON THE HORIZON

Dear Friends,

God willing I can attempt to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro at 5,800 mts. Highest peak in Africa. Highest free standing peak in the world. One of the fabled seven summits. I will try my hardest to reach the top. It will be tough, it will be painful, it at times will be agony. I know these feelings well. I do not fear them. God willing I will go for that summit and set a new personal altitude record. Breaking the record by 1,000 mts.

I hope to go to the summit with a fine company called WILD FRONTIERS Ltd. of Joburg, South Africa. With thanks to Michael H. at my company of RAMBLERS WORLDWIDE HOLIDAYS of Lemsford, Welwyn Garden City in the UK.

My attempt will be from the Tanzania side on a route known popularly as the 'Whiskey' route. It is the most scenic route on Kili. Maybe, I can broadcast by mobile phone from the summit, God willing, we will see.

Will reach northern Tanzania tomorrow by noon. There are many challenges still to face before Kili is reached. I pray God is with me and He will guide me to The Way.

Best Wishes

Andy

Tuesday 7 February 2012

PHOTO - AW + Beatrice + CHEETAH



STROKING A FULL GROWN CHEETAH

Dear Friends,

This morning I went with Rev. Beatrice to the Impala Sanctuary. It was extraordinary. $15 to enter for a non-Kenya, 150 KNS for a national. It proved to be great value for money and time.

I saw two Ostrich close up, and I now know that my ambition to ride on an Ostrich is very much possible. Where and when, I am not sure. But, God willing, it will happen in Africa at some point in the future. I saw how powerful and strong they are. I think I could do it. I will have to undergo some training, but it is possible.

We saw Water Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, Monkey etc. The highlight was going into the pen of the Cheetah and stroking their head and paw. There was two Cheetah. They were very relaxed, but you must keep them busy mentally. The Cheetah is the big cat of least danger to humans. We took photos and video.

Later we walked among Impala antelopes. Very beautiful animals.

A priceless outting for us to treasure in our memory.

Best Wishes

Andy

WILL MOVE IN THE NEXT 24 HOURS VERY QUICKLY

Dear Friends,

Whether it be by boat, or bus, I will move very soon on route to Tanzania. Keep watching this space.

Best Wishes

Andy

AIRCRAFTSMAN SHAW IN NORTHWICH - 1934

Dear Friends,

Research into 'Aircraftsman Shaw in Northwich - March 1934' is coming along well. We believe we have an eye witness, alive in Northwich, who saw and waved to Lawrence as he sailed down the River Weaver on board the 'Aquarius'. This gentleman is now 90 years old. I will interview him when I get home to UK.

Best Wishes

Andy

NOW ON SIX CONTINENTS of the WORLD

Dear Friends,

I am now broadcasting from Africa to six continents of the world. Bogota in Colombia has joined us.
Germany will soon be on board too. If anyone knows how to get this blog read in Antarctica, South Pole base, please advise me how to do this.

Best Wishes

Andrew

Monday 6 February 2012

DELAYED IN KISUMU - BUT LOVED HERE

Dear Friends,

I have been in Kisum some days now awaiting the fabled and mystic Cargo boat to Tanzania. I will give it to Wednesday morning to appear. It is 5:30pm Kenya time, Monday 6th feb 2012.

Tomorrow we will go to the Impala Park where I should be able to bag the remain two of the big five...Lion & Cheetah. I will see the tame Impala.

When I leave Kisumu I must move quickly and without delay across northern Tanzania. I must travel fast by whichever means. I give two days max in the Serengeti and thence on to Kili. Thankyou Michael of RWWHs for the info re the Kili routes. God willing, I will avoid the Coca Cola route and take the Whiskey route instead. It seems much better to me.

The children of the St Marks Methodist compound in Kisumu love me. I got them a football yesterday, a big bottle of Sprite and some simple cakes. It was a joy to see their smiles. Prince Harry..why do you spend 500 pounds on cocktails for an evening at the night clubs?

Best Wishes to my true Friends

Andy

ROMANTICALLY REJECTED HERO

Dear Friends,

I have known rejection all my life, particularly romantic rejection. I now find it amusing and such fun being constantly rejected. Such:

1. Katie of Tarporley 1997
2. Katie of Northern Ireland 2005
3. Christy of USA 2003
4. Marilyn of Canada 1993
5. Nadia of Annecy 2003
6. Victoria of datetheuk circa 2004
7. Anita of Belgium 2012
8. Luda of Kiev 2005
9. Sena of Ghana 2008
10. Katryn of Germany 1990
11. Catherine of Canada 2000

Others I forget and that are too numerous to mention.

Everytime you rejected me, you added a rock to the foundation of my seven pillared worthy house. Thankyou sincerely.

Andy

GREATEST ALL-ROUND SPORTSMAN

I think Andrew is without dispute the greastest all-round sportsman Northwich has ever seen. His like will never be known again. Sports:

1. Mountaineering
2. Long Distance walking
3. Marathon man.... London 97, Manchester 98.
4. Cross country runner.
5. Runner of the Roman walls of Chester
6. Snooker
7. Pool
8. Darts
9. Shove happenny
10. Rock climbing.. the Peaks, Chamonix, Pembroke coast, Lakes, Snowdonia
11. Horse riding
12. Tae Kwondo
13. Bungee jumper
14. Cricket
15. Football
16. Archery
17. Chess
18. Volley ball
19. Badminton
20. Tennis
21. Ten pin bowling
22. Crown Green Bowling
23. Marbles champion
24. Rowing
25. Challenge walker
26. Draughts
27. Hang-gliding
28. golf
29. Three card brag
30. Pub quizzing
31. Table tennis
32. Ice climbing.. French Alps

I challenge anyone to equal me.

Sunday 5 February 2012

THE WORLD LOOKS IN AWE

Dear Friends,

The world looks in awe and respect to those beings who are indifferent to material gain and goods, to luxury or comfort. Men who walk with Kings and also people of the streets alike. Beings who devote themselves to the service of others without consideration of financial and material gain.

The world will come to see that my name will flow through the annals of history. They will barely believe that a man such as Andrew once walked the Earth. He is flesh and red blood flows through his veins.

He is uncrowned King of Africa, would-be master of Arabia and the East. Grandson of Robert and Laurence, great men of service to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and its former Empire.

Best Wishes

Andy

THE GABON VIPER - DEADLY

Dear Friends,

My fear of snakes is now healthy. I have just been to the Kisumu Museum and seen the live snakes. I fear the Gabon Viper & the Black Mamba. The Gabon Viper has 2 inch long fangs and when it bites it hangs on and doesn't let go. It is vicious and deadly as is the Black Mamba & many others.

Also saw two examples of the Nile Crocodile. I think I could handle the Nile Croc with a bit of advance warning and my knife, but not the Gabon Viper.

We also saw fishes of Lake Victoria.

Best Wishes

Andy

MODES of TRANSPORT in KENYA & TANZANIA

Dear Friends,

I have already, or will, use the following transports in Kenya and Tanzania:

1. Bus
2. Matatu mini bus
3. Cargo boat
4. Bicycle
5. Bicycle taxi in Kisumu
6. Airplane
7. Taxi
8. Private car
9. Motorbike
10. Foot
11. Tuktuk in Kisumu
12. Ferry to Zanzibar
13. Dhow sailing boat to Mombassa
14. Train Mobassa to Nairobi

Goodness knows what else

Best wishes

Andy

WITH DAVID in KISUMU

Dear Friends,

Today is a kick-back day. I am sharing the company of my new friend David and his Sunday School class mates. We are in Kisumu center looking for the Museum. It is 2:36 pm Kenya time. Have to rush to catch the Museum before it closed.

This morning I attended the St Marks Methoidist service and the Sunday School class.

Best Wishes

Andrew

Saturday 4 February 2012

WORRIED I WILL BITE HIM

Dear Friends,

There is a young boy at the Methodist compound in Kisum who is afraid I will bite him. Normally he comes to the Methodist Minister's house, but now he is shy to do so while this unusual man is lodging there. Will see if he grows to like me in the next day or two.

Please comment and write to me, while I have the time in Kisumu now.

Best Wishes

Andy

IN TOUCH with FIVE CONTINENTS of the WORLD

Dear Friends,

I am still in Kisumu on the shores of Lake Victoria. It could be as late as Tuesday before I can catch the Cargo boat to Mwenza in Tanzania. At little lost time, I know. My desire to travel by cargo boat is great, so I must wait. I can expect news on Sunday or Monday. Once I am in Tanzania I must move quickly still. Hoped for objectives in Tanzania:

1. Julius Nyrarie museum
2. Somehow to cross the Serengeti
3. Kilimanjaro, at least six days.
4. Possible crossing the Maasai Steppe.
5. Get quickly to Dar e Salam
6. Dont linger, get ferry to Zanzibar
7. Cycle in Zanzibar
8. Possible boat or Dhow to Mombassa.
9. Charirable Project of the Northwich Methodist Church in Mombassa.
10. Train Mobassa to Niarobi.

Dear readers, please bare with me, I am doing my best.

Best Wishes

Andy

Friday 3 February 2012

BROADCASTING TO THE WORLD

Dear Friends,

I am broadcasting to the whole world from Kenya today. I am being read in USA, Kenya, Canada, Belgium, UK, New Zealand, Singapore and Belarus. It is 3:57 pm Kenya time this is Andrew Wright in Kisumu, Kenya on a bright warm day.

Best Wishes

Andy

LAWRENCE OF ARABIA AWARD!!

Dear Friends,

Could it be possible that Andrew is worthy to share an honor with Wilfred Thesiger CBE, Sir Chris Bonnington and Colin Thubron? Some say why? Others say WHY NOT.

Best Wishes

Andy

CARGO BOAT tomorrow?

Dear Friends,

There is a good chance that I will sail for Tanzania tomorrow aboard a cargo boat. Me the lad from ordinary origins in Northwich travelling on a cargo boat down Lake Victoria. Eat your heart out Michael Palin. I did this from nothing to triumph so. If I get home to tell the tales I believe I will be Northwich's greatest son. My name will ripple through the pages of history. this is good. I will see the Captain tomorrow and discuss the terms. God willing it will happen and I will reach Tanzania and accomplish a boyhood dream. I had a vision that one day I would travel in Tanzania. It is to hand for me. God willing I will survive to reach Zanzibar and thence home. There is a lot to do before then.

Best Wishes

Andy

WHO IS ANDREW? continued

65. Diplomat
66. Negotiator
67. Organizer of Expeditions
68. Leader of registered minor political party 2001 'The Tatton Group'.
69. Cyclist John OGroats to Lands End 2010
70. Team member 'Salomon Womens Will Trans-Iberian' cycling expedition.
71. Leader 'In the Footsteps of T E Lawrence' cycling expedition to Jordan, Syria and Israel 2010.
72. Investor
73. Home owner
74. Gardener.
75. Poet
76. Romantic hero
77. Romantically rejected hero
78. Challenge walker
79. Climber of the five British Isles highest peaks in each country
80. Climber Yorkshire 3 Peaks
81. Tramp on Malta, Corsica and Crete
82. 26,000 mile endurance cyclist
83. Friend of Palistine
84. Cyclist on the Golan Heights, West Bank and Gaza
85. Youth Hostel worker all over England & Wales
86. Life member of the Scottish Youth Hostel Association
87. Traveller in 42 countries
88. Talker of talk. Walker of walks.
89. Parliamentary candidate Referendum Party, Knowsley South 1997.
90. French end to end cyclists 1989.
91. Cyclist in 30 Capital cities.
92. Trans Pyrenean cyclist, Atlantic to Med
93. Solo climber Mont Blanc 1994
94. Trier on the Matterhorn 1999
95. Sayer of prayers
96. Lover of music
97. The Lion Heart
98. Starter from nothing
99. Greatest all-round sportsman Northwich has ever produced.
100. Knowledged on the cinema
101. Friend of Poland
102. Leader
103. Dreamer of dreams
104. Northwich's greatest ever son.
105. Private detective
106. Uncrowned King of Africa
107. A latter day Cyrano de Bergerac
108. Crosser of the Sprengersandur glacial desert in Iceland by bicycle.
109. Camel rider in southern Tunisia.
110. Walker of long distance footpaths
111. Debater
112. Honorary Maasai tribesman... could be
113. Attempt-er of the Seven Summits... could be
114. Crosser of the Welsh 3,000 ft peaks
115. Swordsman..yes, I carry a sword in Africa
116. Collector of books
117. Cyclist around the Sea of Galilee..yes
118. Master of all he surveys..could be
119. Collector of maps
120. Philatilist
121. Runner around the Roman Walls of Chester
122. Endurance bus rider..yes, 48 hours on Greyhound bus across the USA
123. Observer of Parliament
124. Admirer of movie stars
125. Correspondent with Martin Bell OBE
126. Independent candidate: Tarporley, Wincham & Lostock, Bucklow
127. Monarchist
128. Working class hero...maybe
129. Tour de France Col cyclist. 2 x Tourmalet, Aubisque, Colombiere, Iseran etc and so on.
130. Opera lover
131. Ballet lover
132. Budapest lover
133. Orient express to Istanbul traveller x 2... Interail
134. Man on the road to Damascus..yes
135. Dublin, Paris & Amsterdam tripper
136. Horseman in Cairo & Cheshire
137. Bungee jumper
138. Cyclist across the Great St Bernard pass without dismounting..age 28
139. Battlefield explorer, Dardanelles, Somme, Flanders, Verdun, D-Day beaches, Bosworth Field.
140. Entrant to RAGBRAI 2012
141. Is the man who failed the 11+ but went on to lecture the Professors at Oxford.
142. Is he a legend?
143. Eater at McDonalds
144. Only needs Mt Ventoux, Col Galibiere and Alp du Huex to have conquered the whole Tour de France of the mountains.
145. Cyclist Pisa to Palermo
146. Cyclist of volcanos. Etna, Vesuvious, Strombloi
147. Rower of the Ganges
148. Walker of 100 miles in 48 hours.. yes
149. Meditator in the great Mosques and Cathedrals.
150. Devoted son
151. Pilgrim at the Golden Temple in Amritsar
152. Student of Mahatma Ghandi
153. Psycologist
154. Sociologist
155. Retiree at 94 miles on the LDWA Wessex 100.
156. Timed out at 90 miles on the LDWA Yoredale 100.

Thursday 2 February 2012

VISIT TO MAMA SARAH OBAMA

Dear Friends,

Today in the company of Rev Beatrice and chairman William we mounted an expedition to Kogero to visit Grandmother Sarah Obama. Mission accomplished. I cant transmit any photos due to a promise not to publically convey any images of Mama Obama. I can show the photos at my home and privately, which I will do in due course..God willing.

We also saw the graves of Baba Obama and Grandfather Obama.

Best Wishes

Andy

CRASH in KISUMU

Dear Friends,

Yesterday afternoon I had a slight mishap. I was following Rev Beatrice to the Methodist Church on my bicycle when suddenly a lady walked in front of me and I crashed into her. I came off worse. She appeared uninjured while I got a nasty bump above the left eye. There could have been an ugly incident but we managed to quell the heat of the situation. I now have a black eye.

Best Wishes

Andrew

WHO IS ANDREW?

1. Explorer
2. Geographer
3. Adventurer
4. Scholar
5. Mountaineer
6. Cycle tourist
7. Writer
8. Journalist ...amature
9. Photographer
10. Film maker
11. Leisure activities promoter
12. Publicist
13. Theatrical producer
14. Motivational speaker
15. Traveller
16. Mountain Group Leader
17. First Aider
18. Racqonteur
19. Historian
20. Family history researcher
21. Politician
22. Son
23. Baba Zhenia
24. Nephew
25. Cousin
26. Brother
27. Uncle
28. Great uncle
29. Member of the T E Lawrence Society
30. Hangglider pilot
31. Grandson of Ivy, Laurence, Robert and Annie
32. Archivist
33. Archaeologistical digger
34. Cross country runner
35. Tai Kwondo yellow tab
36. Long distance walker
37. Member of the Methodist Church
38. Arabist
39. Navigator
40. Rambers Worldwide Holidays leader
41. YHA volunteer warden
42. Communicator
43. Reader of biography and travelog
44. Former Special Constable
45. Student of T E Lawrence
46. Student of W S Churchill
47. Member of the Sons of the Desert
48. Construction steelwork draughtsman
49. Charity fund raiser
50. Internationalist
51. Chairman Ross A Dramatic Portrait Committee
52. Grape picker of France
53. Quiz team captain..Laughing Gravy.. The Claire Bears
54. Crosser of Deserts and Continents
55. Friend
56. Helper of the needy
57. Philospher
58. Member of the MCFS
59. Member of the North Cheshire Ramblers
60. Presenter of slide shows
61. Advisor to politicians
62. Marathon runner
63. Lecturer Aircraftsman Shaw in Northwich..March 1934
64. Honorary member of the Samburu tribe of northern Kenya

More to follow.....

Wednesday 1 February 2012

PHOTO in the outback of KERICHO

BROADCASTING FROM KERICHO

Dear Friends,

It is 10:50 am Kenya time, Wednesday 1st February 2012. This is Andrew Wright broadcasting from Kerichio in the highlands of western Kenya. Another warm day beckons. The conditions are idea for cycling. I have just cycled into town, 11 kms from Rev. John's mission station home. I have been staying with Rev. John, his wife Stella and their three small children. Their welcome and hospitality has been wonderful. I will miss being with them. The people of the countryside are so friendly. The children of the school, where I spoken yesterday, came to the track and waved and smiled to me.

Here in Kericho town I must buy some new earphones. Music is good for morale.

Will be pushing on to Kisumu later today. Fingers crossed I will meet Grandmother Obama on Thursday.

Best Wishes

Andy