DAY 1 – The group set off bright and breezy from Langtree Park with a huge amount of excitement and a tinge of trepidation. Just before boarding we presented Lewis Furlong with his 18th birthday badge and then once boarded at Manchester the first 12hr leg went by smoothly.
The lads were excitedly watching films other than Adam Causey, Cameron Brown and Matty Kilgannon who were busily working away on their college work. Oh and Rob Fairclough who easily slept for 9hrs missing one of the meals.
We had a small stoppage at Hong Kong and the conversations started. Elliott Jenkins and Kieran O’Mara where discussing different nationalities. Elliott thought the term for Hong Kong nationalities is ‘Hongenese’ whilst Kieran was adamant that the correct term is ‘Hongonians’. Funnily enough we never did come to a collective conclusion…
Onto the second flight and the lack of sleep really kicked in, other than poor Rob who fresh from a 9hr sleep only managed another 5 from the 8hr leg. Danny Edwards and Brad Pinder where particularly friendly with intertwined legs whilst you must feel sorry for Ian ‘the pest’ Talbot sandwiched between the snorers of Molyneux and Leonard!
We eventually landed at Sydney fortunate – with no delays and a smooth flight, unlike the Eckleys’ and Lewtas’ who had a 16hr delay.
A travel weary group headed on the bus out to Penrith. A quick feed, quick shower and off to bed. Tomorrow the tour starts with a 2 training session day and a short visit to the city to stretch the legs. I hope you enjoy the first few pictures.
By Neil Kilshaw
