Distance today = 54.17 km; Total distance = 16,659.20 km; Location = Navarrete – 42 25.210′ N, 02 33.284′ W; Start time = 0859, Finish time = 1745

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/274477585

A cold and grey day didn’t prevent me from knocking over 54 km. There’s something about an icy wind in your face that saps your enthusiasm, but it’s important to push through it. Otherwise I’d be making excuses all the time. The atmospheric conditions were not conducive to photos either, so Carmel didn’t bother with many. She’d rather take none than take substandard photos.

Early in the morning I crossed the equivalent of a state line, entering the region of La Rioja. To any wine-loving world runner worth his salt, the Rioja region is compulsory. Some of the world’s best reds come from around these parts.

Late in the morning, I rolled my left ankle when I inadvertently stepped on a rock. It felt really bad at the time – don’t they always – but recovered fairly quickly, to the point where I couldn’t even feel it this afternoon.

After farming and vineyards in the morning, the afternoon landscape became a bit more light-industrial at times. This, coupled with the wind in my face, made it somewhat of a slog. Still, I got through a big day, and I’m now relaxing in our bungalow accommodation in a local camping ground. I think I’ll sleep well tonight.