WED. MAR. 15 DAY 10 MILLENIUM CAMP-MAWEKA GATE-MOSHI

We broke camp feeling much better and enjoyed a hearty final camp breakfast. The knowledge that we were descending seemed to buoy us. The weather was bright and pleasant and the walk was initially good. But again, after a couple of hours, fatigue set in and I became the problem. My feet have had enough and my knees, particularly my left knee, became very painful. What was supposed to be a four hour walk became six. Nobody really pays attention to the descent, but it is excruciatingly hard.

Nevertheless, we made it down to Maweka Gate. It was here that the finality of the trek coming to a close hit home. After a rousing "Happy Birthday" for Lou ( nice touch, Elly ) and the traditional victory song, we said a sad farewell to our porters and support crew. These are fine people who took great care of us and, were it not for them, none of this would've been possible. We will never see them again.

Back to the Bristol Cottages in Moshi for the hallowed hot shower and cold beer. We said our goodbyes to Elly and Stanford, exchanged emails and wished them well. A blissful night's sleep followed.

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