If you can, you should definitely try again. I had to retire due to a stomach upset on my first Challenge. It was a massive disappointment, but it was the right decision. I returned two years later and had a successful crossing. In some ways, it was all the more satisfying because I didn’t finish first time around. You might be apprehensive, but if you do the right training and aren’t overly ambitious on your route you stand a good chance of completing. Best of luck.

A heart-warming approach to the Challenge. Wish you all the best for 2020.

Markus

Thanks for sharing your personal story, André !

If you ever feel like backpacking in our own country (Netherlands), you may be interested to know about the Rugzaklopers (of which I am a member). We organise year-round backpacking weekends, nearly every weekend. For me the perfect way to keep my exercise.

Looking forward to meet you on the 2020 Challenge,
all the best,

BART

Again, Thanks all for the encouragement en understanding. Really great.

And Bart, I've had a look at the Rugzaklopers. Sounds good, I'll try to join one of the weekends, thanks!

Greetings from sunny Haarlem to all,
Andre Hilhorst