Neone Okesene

The Sabbath is so sweet and joyous a day that whenever it comes around it never ceases to bring refreshing restoration of body and spirit, all the more so when one spends it with the family. Today is just such a day. Praise the Lord. The programme at the New Lynn Samoan Church went well. I could see my church members all focussing their attention on me as if in disbelief that I have come this far. They were sizing me up no doubt marvelling at the remodelled Neone now with a staunch frame and a lean, young, athletic look ha, ha. They were all ears as I spoke about resilience for what I had done on this ride is nothing short of the truest meaning of the word. I got Fulutone Tito, one of my elders, to put on my uniform. My, didn’t he look good. I gave out some Carbo Shots and they got snapped up in no time.

Sabbath went too quick.

It is early morning rise today - 5am and we are on the road. I only had 3hrs sleep last night but going home to Susana and the kids at the end of today’s ride is the predominant thought in my mind. As usual, I rode in the back of the group, not so I could be in the draft for an easy day’s ride but so that I could keep an eye on everyone, ha, ha (rather, to keep out of everyone’s way more likely). Well, being the oldest in the group, I instinctively and culturally see myself as the patriarch, although strictly speaking Doug is our leader. Hence, I ride at the back like a shepherd making sure everyone is OK, ha, ha, but what an impressive sight from behind, with every bike in front of me beaming a light in the dark. We did good time too going past Ngaruawahia while the sun was still asleep and then leaving Highway One to wind up through the back roads.

Going around the back way, we caught a glimpse of the lakes behind Ggaruawhahia being lit up by the rising sun. This has to be the most impressive sight we have seen yet during the tour and we have seen numerous breathtaking ones too up to now. Our first stop was, you guessed it, a loo stop. It had to be as we had such an early start that our systems are only just kicking in. After breakfast we headed off into what seemed like endless undulating hills, which really suited my style of riding. I like the build up of the momentum going down a hill followed by the fast winding up in the next hill to take full advantage of the momentum so as not to expend too much energy in the climb.. I broke away from the group at one point and when Doug did not drive by as usual to haul me in, I knew he was letting me go to enjoy the hills. So I just kept going and going and had great fun too until the thought occurred to me that I might be on the wrong route as there was no vehicle in front and I could not see anyone behind. I waited a while and when I saw the team coming down a long straight I started again very slowly. But little did I know the plan being hatched by Dougie and the group behind me. In a flash the group went past me and left me for dead. I could hear someone saying "Bye, bye Neone." The glee in their faces was unmistakable; it was a plot of high treason!

Soon we were in familiar country and were riding through some our old training routes (i.e. Doug, Paul, Rebecca, Jake and myself). "Shall we do West Rd on the way in" I could hear Paul’s teasing challenge. West Rd is the hardest of all the roads I have ever ridden. We did not do it today, but Manukau came to us quicker than we expected. The welcome by the President of the North New Zealand Conference, Pastor Eddie Tupa’i and the President of the New Zealand Pacific Union, Pastor Jerry Matthews and the whole office staff was hearty and encouraging. To get congratulatory hugs from my faithful Church members, Melive Fautua and Nifo Kuresa who were at the Conference office today was a delightful bonus. They could not believe I could make it this far. The haka by the South Auckland primary school was good. Evelyn looked so proud of husband Jake and it radiated Jakes face no end. Good on you guys. The ride into Down Town Auckland was over in a flash. I could not wait to get home. Susana was there to pick me up and after saying good-bye to Doug and seeing Paul, Sonia and Rebecca and the kids off (it was great to see the whole Rankin family there) we were on our way to home, sweet home. The family was there and it was just great to see them all. I fell asleep in the lounge after a hearty "protein-rich" meal and did not get to Papatoetoe to pick up the material from Jonathan that I needed for my Sabbath program at my Church in New Lynn. Oh well, I’ll just have to improvise tomorrow.

The Kaimai Ranges are something else. I thought yesterday was hard but today was even harder. Surely, someone has got the hills all muddled up. We were never warned about this one. Still when we got to the top and looked out across Waikato Country, it was all worth it. I felt a great sense of achievement today. There was no panic, no sense of overheating, and no worries. I felt strong all the way and I tell you it was a good feeling, especially after yesterday.

On the way to Cambridge we met a local rider who had heard about us on the radio and had seen us on the web. Roger knew the local area well. He looked a little out of condition but had been a road racing rider in his young days and he still has power in those legs plus a lot of experience. He rode with us all the way to the Hamilton Adventist Primary School after a brief stop over in Cambridge. Thanks for the company Roger. Angela Hunt (nee Lewin, a good friend from when I was the Pastor of Cambridge SDA in the early 80s) also joined us for the ride from Cambridge. It was great to see Angela as well as the Lewins, the Jacksons, the Stirlings and the rest of the Cambridge crowd. The Mayor is extremely proud of Cambridge being the Cycle capital of New Zealand, it being Sarah Ulmer country. Mark Todd double Olympic gold medallist is also a local hero.

The Hamilton reception was quite subdued. A lady representative of the Council called around to welcome us. Marty Luke was there as well.

The evening meeting was held at the Fountain Theatre. This place brings back memories. It was the venue for The Greenwell Report in the mid-80s and I remember singing solos in this theatre every night for Pastor Greenwell and his programme. Tonight, Marie Quinlivan’s mum, Janet, came with Marie’s son Nathan. Marie used to come for cell group bible study in my house back in the 80’s together with her boy friend Malcolm and a lot of other young people from Hamilton and Cambridge. Sadly, Marie died in a car accident in Sydney but her son is with her mother. Thank you for coming to see me Janet and to say hello. It was good to see Angela and her children too, Harmony and Olympia, come to support the meeting. God bless you good folk. I did not go to sleep till about one o’clock.

Would you believe it? I’m 14days older today than when we started. Praise the Lord. Strangely, the mirror says I’ve grown younger as I do not have to tuck my tummy in anymore. Ha ha. But I feel as if some bones of my body, especially my coccyx (for the uninformed, that is the scientific name for "tailbone"), need total replacement. Reminds me of the programme "Extreme make over". Can’t beat the resurrection though – new bodies, the lot. It is a total makeover. I can’t wait.

The local folk say that there is a less hilly route to Tauranga than the one we are taking today. But why chose this one? Hey Allen did you make the choice? It is OK for you, mate, you’re riding in the van! The climb out of the gully today is the hardest I’ve had in the whole tour to this point. I’m not kidding. I had a bad gear change and almost stalled. I lost my rhythm and my breath but I just kept the legs moving. For the first time in the ride, I felt I was panicking a little and was somewhat overheating. I remember feeling like this on top of Mt Seir in Jordan near the red city of Petra. In the heat of that day and with severe dehydration I had an anxiety attack. It was scary man. I am determined I am not going to ever get like that again. Oh for a coconut cool sip of the youthfulness of youth!!

After the hill, I just kept riding on ahead of everyone and something strange happened. Surely, I am not having an anxiety attack again or am I in la la land? Because I saw someone in the same uniform as ours riding towards us and going in the opposite direction. Thank goodness it was Graham, the uniform designer/manufacturer who is in Tauranga for the day. He is an avid rider and came out to join us for the ride wearing the same uniform. Phew, he got me worried there for a moment.

The smiling face of Linda who stood on the road to wave us into her home for our lunch made up for the "terribul" route. Linda came from Holland when she was 15. Her husband Aaron rode with us into town. I must say you are "da bomb" Tauranga folk - very enthusiastic and very organised. Somehow it seemed like everyone in town knew we were coming. The whole town is buzzing about our tour and tooting and waving as we rode past. That was a great down town reception. The evening meeting was also a beauty with a good turn out. Well done Kaal, Robbyn, Aaron and Linda. Good to meet Jake’s mum and sister too. It was nice to see my roommate looking so happy and proud. Anne was also proud to introduce to us her lovely husband John, a humble man, as well as her son Peter. I also met my friend Razmic. He still looks the same. I went to bed contented and happy but I could not sleep, my mind was racing. Must be that hill.

Also tonight, I had a good heart to heart talk with Allen. I keep thinking about him and Julene and their situation. God is with you my good friends and thank you for being forgiving of your colleagues in ministry. Plus when we got home from the meting, Doug, who has been so faithfully servicing our bikes all during the tour and who stayed behind again tonight to do the same, had left a small package for Jake and I, on the door to our motel room. It was from the "alliance" (more on this later). With the lights out (Jake was sleeping across the room), I could not read so I turned the TV around to lull me to sleep. The Brisbane Broncos was playing St Helens in league in England. I fell asleep and woke up just in time to know the result. The Broncos lost.

The destination is getting closer everyday. No, I’m not talking about Cape Reinga. I’m talking about home in Auckland! Home just seems oh so sweet from where we are.

I’ve been receiving text messages from my three girls Delvina, Shalom and Kara, and also from Tyrone my younger son all during the tour. I can’t wait to see them. It seems like I’ve been away for ages. I even received a message from Jonathan my older son in Australia and my two grandchildren there. Last night I talked to Susana on the phone. God bless the family. The thought of all of you just keeps me going.

Talking about home, I notice Norah is riding unbelievably strong today when she is up front. Even on the uphill inclines we can hardly keep up with her. Then it dawned on me. We are heading to Rotorua, which is home for Norah. No wonder. She will be sleeping in her own bed tonight, lucky thing.

In a similar way, as we draw near to heaven our eternal home, we find ourselves more energetic and more cheerful. The tasks just do not seem burdensome anymore. The thought of heaven so close makes everything else bearable. I can’t wait to be in that home right now.

Rotorua, the place with the distinctive smile, (I mean smell) - what a welcome you gave us! The young Maori warrior who performed the challenge just could not stop smiling at the girls in our riding group. Isn’t he supposed to look fierce? Eyes off mate; Rebecca is only 16 and Norah is married. Andrew is in the crowd anyway and so is Amy, Norah’s daughter. Good to see them looking so happy as a family. Who’s going to do our washing tonight?

Jonathan got into a good-natured chat with some elderly ladies at the Motel and struck a chord with them. They tooted and waved at my direction the next day as they drove past. I waved back thinking "Wow, some folk here know me." I realised later Jonathan was standing behind me and the waves were for him.

Rex and the morning worships – he prepares them so well. They are so appropriate and apt and a great way to start each day. I love the look on Elaine’s face as she glances up to Rex reading the devotion. Two love birds if ever there were any. It is early morning rise and ride for us today but we make sure we have devotional and prayer – plus breakfast. Julene, Anne, and Elaine – what a combination. Breakfast on the run has not given us the runs, yet (ha, ha, have i spoken too soon?) So you are doing a great job, ladies, hygienically getting our breakfast ready. You are even preparing our lunches - what a blessing. Andrew behind his camera is busy interviewing the team but soon we are off and straight into a hill. It is the beginning of a climb that will steadily go up and up and up and up for several kilometres until we reach Waiouru.

After a brief stop at the War Museum, we are ready to move. Where’s Jake? He is somewhere in the Museum, probably talking to someone as usual. No wonder he gets so many punctures. While he is talking, someone could be sabotaging his bike. Back in the fold, we are on our way again. Before long we are winding down into a gorge and then it is relentless grinding for what seems like kilometres on end up on the other side. I can hear someone saying, "Hey, there is a bigger hill and a harder climb yet, after Turangi." Thanks! Just what I need!

For your elucidation mate, this climb we are doing now has just about sapped all my breath and energy. "Your bike squeaks" Norah said. Shhh! It’s not the bike it’s my aging joints. I vaguely remember someone saying this would be one of the hardest ride on the tour. Must have been Paul. I have heard that before about the other rides too. Maybe, Paul is still suffering from his concussion. I hear him singing "unrelenting, unrelenting."

I decided I was going to enjoy the ride and the scenery regardless. Mt Ruapehu - what a sight. Mt Ngaruahoe – where is it? Hooray, there’s lake Taupo. And Turangi – isn’t there a harder hill just beyond? I don’t care. Bring it on. I just need to get to Turangi. Somewhere in Turangi according to Jake, they sell the best pies in all of New Zealand. Where is it? "Back that way" said Jake. Wrong direction. Blow. Once over the hill, the big one, it was downhill for what must have been like 15 kms until just before the township. Enjoyed that part of the ride immensely. Might as well since we had paid for it over the hills. The mayor of Taupo and a group of riders came out to join us for the ride into town. There was a great welcome from the townsfolk. Thanks Taupo. Pr Phil Laws was in the crowd, which included Les and Cynthia Worsely. As I am writing this journal after the event, it is hard to believe that along these same roads a week from today there would be 2 fatalities involving bike riders during the iron man competition. How sad.

Jonathan, I must take my hat off to you. Where do you get the energy to ride during the day and do the meetings at night? Any secrets? Meeting over, which was in the main auditorium in town, I find I am still hungry so I walked back by myself to the motel and dropped into a take away to buy some chips. Mmmm.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 25
Palmerston North to Taihape

Warning: hills ahead, the big one is just before Taihape! Thoughts of Twilight Hill in Clevedon and West Rd are flashing through my mind. As Doug keeps reminding us, we are in the North Is now. Expect some steep grinding climbs. I am familiar with the roads. I have travelled them several times. But still, from the view on the seat of a road bike, the hills are ten times steeper and more difficult.

I learnt two things from my first training run with Paul, Doug, Rebecca, and Nora along Clevedon, which I will never forget. The second toughest hill that day proved too much for me. I never rode the toughest, which was Twilight hill. But while I was struggling up the number two hill I almost gave up, but for my friend Paul who rode along side me and kept encouraging me. “You could do it,” he said. He will never know how much his encouragement meant to me that day. In real life in the toughest and most difficult of times, we all need friends who give encouragement. They are true friends. Jesus is a true friend always. So is my mate Paul. The second thing I learnt that day came from Doug. After the ride, Doug said that most of life is like climbing that hill. It is at the last part of the hill where most people give up. They have done the hard slog and had only 10percent more of the track to travel. And then they give up. How true!

I have conquered more difficult hills than Twilight since. Any hills ahead of us today are no longer threats because I’m riding with the most amazing team of riders one could wish for. We are all there to encourage each other along.

We had to go past Bull. Yep. There was the office of The Constabul, and then there were Terribul, Horribul and Delectabul.

Taihape? Some long difficult climbs but we conquered them. Great welcome by Garth and group. Garth is in a wheel chair but what a positive guy! I remember Garth from the Williams Report program 27 years ago in Auckland. Also met up with Andrew from Advent News at the look out on top of the steep hill, as we got closer to Taihape. What a view from there. But how did Allen ever rate Dunedin ahead of today’s climb as the second most difficult hills we would have on the ride? Taihape? A small town but I take my hat off to you. You have the best Motel we’ve stayed in so far. I had a room to myself. Jake had the double bed and his own TV. Tomorrow, we tackle the Desert Rd. I need the sleep tonight so I did not go to the meeting. I read through the book of Ecclesiastes before going to sleep. The word “meaningless” and the phrase “chasing after the wind” keep ringing in my mind. I wonder….?

SABBATH FEBRUARY 24

Praise the Lord the Sabbath has come around again. Halleluiah! Sabbath is always special. Can’t wait to have some real rest. Well, that is after fellowship with the Samoan folk, which I enjoyed very much. Fesola’i and Pele have lived in Palmy for over 40yrs and were there today for our Church service and our lunch. God bless you really good my dear friends. Arthur and Carol Yeo, colleagues from my Avondale years turned up in the afternoon. It was great to see them also.

Rebecca cooked dinner. I am so impressed. Paul must be real proud of Rebecca, so mature for her age. She planned the meal, got the ingredients and did all the preparation herself; and there was enough for all 13 of us.

Rest, rest, rest. That is what I try to keep telling myself. I read through the whole book of Esther before going to sleep.

FRIDAY FEB 23
Wellington to Palmerston North.

This is one of the longest rides on the tour. We are really clicking as a group now and going like clockwork. Every so often though, Jake and I would get carried away when we were up front and we would slip away on a slight uphill climb. Could that be possible? But then Doug would speed past us to rein us in and to diplomatically tell us off. Jake and I would say, “Here comes the traffic cop” No matter how fast Jake and I would go, uphill or downhill, Doug would always catch up. The man is incredible. He’s been carrying an injury to his achillis tendon since the Dunedin hills, but he has not winced once on the ride. He is as tough as they come. Jonathan, the quiet rider also seems quite at home with the pace and the hills. Jonathan, Doug and Rebecca are our strongest riders. Rebecca never seems to be fazed by any hill, speed or distance. A strong 16yr old she is with lots of energy (I wish I had some of it).

The route out of Paramata, for the first 20km is probably the most dangerous in the whole tour because of the nature of the roads and the heavy morning traffic. On the day we are to ride it, however, we encountered our first real wet day. Would you believe that? There was a slight drizzle and a head wind during the most dangerous section of the road, plus visibility was low and the sea was choppy and misty along the coast. In hindsight though, these were in reality a blessing in disguise. They kept us cool as well as alert, and they also kept the busy traffic at a careful pace, which suited us just fine. We did this part of the ride with no real drama.

The Shannon Railway station, an interesting place of historical significance was a welcome shelter from the weather for our lunch stop. The caretaker, a lovely elderly lady, offered us hot drinks. The conditions also called for some hot food so I bought some hot chips, which everyone seemed to enjoy, especially Allen.   Where’s Jake? Oh, he is out again on his usual quick stop pastoral visit, this time to Lois Erceg, a colleague teaching in the area. Lois was one of my children’s primary teachers some 20yrs ago.

Palmerston North? Thanks for the great welcome in the city square Anton, Willie, and Daniel. Thanks to the Mayor too for turning up. There are a few things happening in Palmy this weekend. Some kind of sports tournament is on and all the Motels have been booked up. Good thing ours was booked well ahead.

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22
Blenheim to Picton

Pr Paul Credig and a few riders on mountain bikes joined us for the short ride into Picton. The pass was windy and steep at parts. I could see Paul was struggling. His hip must be giving him problems. I tried my best to tow my friend Paul in my slipstream but the rest of the group were so far ahead I had to leave him or I might not make the ferry. It did not take long before I caught up with the group and we made the ferry in good time. Going down towards Picton was fun - just a long downhill roll all the way. We said goodbye to Steve. We will miss him. He was so strong in the last few rides he has become an invaluable member of the ride. It was also goodbye to Belinda. She is an adventurous type and will be missed.

The ferry ride was uneventful, but the Wellington reception on the steps of Parliament was special. John Morrison, the NZ Cricketer and member of the Wellington City Council was there as well as the Speaker of the House. A number of MPs also took time out to come and greet us. Paul’s dad, Pr Ian Rankin, brother, Dr David Rankin, and niece Sarah were also there. Great to see Rebecca is so happy to have her family around. Good for her.

Had our second accident today on the windy steep hills in Johnsonville. Norah ran her front wheel into the bike in front of her and she fell. Going uphill at a slow pace at times, I was always afraid this would happen. Jonathan stopped abruptly behind Norah and I ran into him. I fell over my bike awkwardly. Thankfully, everyone was all right. I had a big bruise on my left bicep though as a reminder of the incident. My intense natural tan could not hide it.

Pr Iosefa Afoa, Tuta’i Arama, Professor Fraser Jackson, and a young journalist from the local Newspaper in Porirua greeted us at the Porirua Town Centre. Noah’s Ark (the name given to the construction that is supposed to be the Porirua English church) brought back memories. I was pastor there 20yrs ago. Fraser remembers.
 
The evening meeting over, Pr Iosefa and I wondered into Denny’s and spent some time talking over a meal. Pr Iosefa is Church Pastor of the Wellington Samoan Church one of the larger church in the region. He has become a full vegetarian. Great on him! Welcome to Ann our new media van driver and support member.

WEDNESDAY 21 FEBRUARY
Blenheim to Nelson

Slept well last night. Short but deep. I know because I got up early, had shower and private devotion before the others got up. And I was feeling fresh too. God is good, and what a great day to be alive.
This ride is additional and not on our direct route but we have to do it as people in Nelson are expecting us. We decided to do the ride in relay fashion except for Steve and Jonathan ( because Jonathan missed a few rides and Steve is not coming with us to the North Is) who would ride all the way. I did the second leg, Doug did the first, and Jake did the third. We all rode together the last 20km. For the first time in this ride, I am able to ride at top speed in front with no one to call ease. I found myself on 107cadence and stayed there in the fastest gear even when there was a hill or an inclination. It was a great blow out and Jonathan and Steve kept tight behind me in my slipstream. But it finished too soon as we had to have a stop at Havelock for a drink.

In the car with Melody and Belinda (who joined us in Kaikoura) for the rest of the way into Nelson, I was able to reflect on how we were going on the trip so far and on the evening meetings. The local churches have really done a great job, but it seems it is hard to attract a large crowd to the meetings. However, some key personnel came along which is important. 

The hills on this ride are unrelenting. In some ways I wish now that I did the whole ride into Nelson. It would have been a great challenge and would have stood me in good stead for the big hills in the North Island. Graham, a 65yr old from Nelson and a retired builder joined Jonathan and Steve on the steep climb into Nelson. He is tough for an old bloke, a great testimony to the value of physical exercise.

An escort of riders led us into town through a windy route that ended up where the Church folk were waiting with the townspeople. A dance group showed us their moves while the barby was going full steam. Andrea, my good friend Ken Kurtis’ daughter was happy to see us. It was good to see Andrea too. Ken and I were neighbours as married students at Avondale College. We became good friends. The diversion to Nelson was worthwhile. We met a goodly number of the townsfolk. We did not see much of the town though. Apparently, Nelson is a great place to live. On the ride back to Blenheim in the car, it seemed such a long way. How strange. You never notice the distance when you are riding a bike because you are in total concentration and you are working very hard.

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 20
Kaikoura to Blenheim.

Blenheim is considered one of our main stops in the South Island. “There are some steep hills on the approach and quite a lot of rolling country”, says Allen, our map expert. Paul, not wanting to miss any kilometres, went back to where he fell off and rode all of the 5 kilometres with Rebecca to Kaikoura before we set off together for the ride to Blenheim. I am still worried about his concussion though cause last night he said, “Breakfast at 8.00am and we’ll be on the road at 7.00am.”

Some of those hills were steep all right, but they made good down hill rides at extremely high speeds on the other side. I am ever so careful going down. It is so easy to slide on loose gravel if they are on the road. Some pretty long bridges too. They all added to the fun of the ride. And those Vineyards! No wonder Blenheim is short of water at times. It is all going into those vineyards.

We arrived in Blenheim to a hearty welcome from Pr Paul Credig and the Blenheim Church crowd. Quite a few from the general community were there as well. The Mayor gave his welcome speech and photos were taken in the centre of town. Blenheim is a lovely place if a little too “white” as are most of the Sth Island places we have covered. Or maybe, I’m getting a little too self-conscious over my natural tan becoming increasingly over-done after nearly two weeks in the sun. Ha Ha.

A swimming pool! Wow! Just what the doctor ordered. The sun was relentless today. Jake and I enjoyed a few minutes in the pool at the motel. I decided to do my laundry today to give Norah a break.

Tea was at Grant’s (an ex-Maori All Black). Despite the hard work of the Blenheim organisers, the main sports stadium in town was never threatened with attendance. We were never going to fill out the huge stadium for our evening meeting However, the folk that came were very responsive and a great bunch to talk to.  Norah spoke well when she was interviewed before the presentation. She’s got some talent, Norah.

MONDAY FEBRUARY 19
Cheviot to Kaikoura

This is perhaps the most picturesque of all the rides so far. We rode along the east coast close to the sea- shore. With the early sun rising over a calm blue sea at high tide and bouncing off in glorious silvery reflections that dazzled in the dawn mist, it was a sight to behold. Pity, we could not stop to take it all in. We had to keep peddling.

The ride was going well until about 5 kilometres out from Kaikoura. Paul must have hit a rock with his front wheel. He went sprawling across my path and landed heavily. I stopped right on top of him (only just) but he was out. My friend was concussed and his helmet was shattered. Luckily, there were no trucks or cars coming from behind. Paul had to ride in the van and we were all so thankful that it was not more serious than it was. I watched Rebecca during the episode. She is so mature for her age. No tears, no show of emotion, but I know she was deeply concerned about her dad. This is our first accident. I wonder how many more lie ahead.

The reception at Kaikoura was warm if a little subdued. The press was there but came mainly for Steven, our local hero. I reckon all toots by passing vehicles were for Steven. He is the only mainlander (i.e. South Islander!) on the ride. He is in a sense, “da bomb” to quote my teenage daughter. We met a representative from the council. We also had photos taken before heading for the motel. It was the same motel we stayed in on the way down to Invercargill. Jonathan rejoined us after being picked up from Blenheim airport. He took the evening meeting. Paul visited a doctor and seemed to be all right although his memory of things was a little hazy.

So far so good, my body seems to be holding up ok. I am pleasantly surprised at how I am coping. I am feeling a little more confident now than when we started that I can do the whole trip, but I am not getting carried away. I wonder, it must be all the powdery recovery drinks we take after each ride, the carbo shots, and the sports drinks laced with all kinds of electrolytes we take during the rides that is keeping me going. They also seem to be playing on my system, as I find it hard to go to sleep. There is no room on this ride to miss a night’s sleep. It is so important to be fresh the next morning. The TV seems to lull me to sleep quicker than any hot drink. But when I sleep, whether in short spells or long, I always pray it is deep sleep. I need it. God is really good.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 18
Christchurch to Cheviot

Today’s ride to Cheviot started from the Camp ground although the send off by a lively group of Church members was at Heyhey community hall some distance from the ground. It was good to see my friend Pastor Asofitu and his lovely wife Sarai, together with Tafaovaoese Tavita Pule who was visiting from Wellington, come to see us off at the campgrounds. Steve, who slept away from the group, joined us again. His wife Monique and children were also there to bid us farewell. What a lovely family.

The traffic in Christchurch is the heaviest that we have experienced on the road so far. Two riders, James and Collin joined us. James, who said he was an experienced rider liked to peddle on high gear and low cadence. Our group formation seemed to be too slow for him. I watched him take off at times and leave the group behind. I wondered how long he would last. At about the 50 km mark James was struggling. On a long slightly uphill climb about 60 km out James said he was feeling the heat (the sun was warmer today than we have experienced before). Eventually, he said he was feeling sick. He had to be picked up by our rear van. He felt better later and rode the last 20 km with us. Collin, however, was strong and rode all the way in formation with us. Hanz met us with his bike and escorted us into Cheviot where the Mayor came out to welcome us. He was in full support of the concept of The Circle of Courage.

Pr Paul Credig came around to say hello. Dinner was in a restaurant. We watched NZ thrash the Aussies in a One Dayer while having dinner, a rare moment to be nostalgic over s porting fixture involving Australia and NZ. Go the Kiwis! The evening meeting was in a small room adjacent to the restaurant and Paul did a great presentation in the absence of Jonathan.  Had a great sleep. God is good.

SABBATH FEBRUARY 17
Christchurch

Finally, I am behind my own computer. I am typing and editing my own journal. Melody had been typing my journal from my private notes before now.

What a great Sabbath with our Samoan church in Christchurch. We had a lively discussion on the book of Ecclesiastes. For the sermon, I spoke on “The God of the impossible.” God calls us to do the impossible. To succeed we must cooperate by faith with Him with whom nothing is impossible. Noah, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Mary and others all did. I ordained 2 deacons while Pr Asofitu blessed and launched a CD of Samoan Music produced by the local choir. True to our Pacific ways, the Church laid out a sumptuous lunch. I did not eat much though, just salad and some fruits. I felt I have already had a good supply of protein and VitB12 at Asofitu’s yesterday. In the youth program in the afternoon, the DVD Rebecca made on the Circle of Courage had a real impact. Jake arrived at just the right time and helped with the promotion. Kahu was also on hand to be viewed by the children.

I am constantly aware, particularly on this tour, of the need to have a good supply of VitB12 in my system. I have had problems with VitB12 deficiency for 22years and I could vividly remember when I was first diagnosed with it. At the time, I was fatigued, sore all over, had stiff joints and was in severe pain especially in my calf muscles after a jog or a lengthy run. I am determined that this would not happen to me again, certainly not on this tour as that would be the end of it for me. I had an injection of B12 about a week before we started but with the kind of consistent daily workouts we are having on the bikes, I am not taking any chances, hence the MAY DAY call to Pr Asofitu for some natural supply.

Team meeting after closing Sabbath: This was very fruitful. Norah raised the issue about calls during the ride, which was very valid. There is some confusion about the calls, and I am one of the culprits causing it. So far, if I was in the front of the group, I took it upon myself to make calls on formation depending on what I saw ahead. For instance if I saw the shoulder of the road narrowing, that there is a double yellow line in the middle of the road, and I could hear the toots of the van behind (2 for a truck, 1 for a car), my natural instincts say “go in single formation” and I would call accordingly. If I was riding in the middle of the bunch, then I would relay to those behind me the call that came from the front. However, this seemed either to cause confusion or annoyed some. For me, I did not really mind who made the calls. I have faith in the ones who are at the front to be my eyes on the road. They could see what is ahead and if they gave the call accordingly that was good enough for me. Our priorities are safety first, formation second, distance third, and speed last. However, to avoid confusion, and for the sake of harmony, consistency and unity we agreed that Doug would be the only one to give the calls. Great. Lets go for it my friends.

16 February 2007

Matthew 11:18 "Come unto me all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest."

These words sound so sweet this morning. We are all really tired and Sabbath could not come sooner. Thank God for the Sabbath day which should give us good rest and recovery.

This will be our longest ride in the trip - 160km into Christchurch.

I rang through to my fellow minister Pastor Asofitu Leatneuar but I received the answer phone. This is 5.30am.

I left a message that some of us on the ride need some extra protein and B12, which means could he help us with some good South Island steak for tea.

The ride itself was a long grinding affair on totally flat roads. It was a very busy road too with lots of traffic. Eventually we arrived on time to a welcome by a representative of the Council in Cathedral Square. There is no question, Christchurch is the capital of the Mainland.

Tea for the group was at a smorgasboard Restaurant. As I had not heard from Asofitu, I decided to go with the group to the restuarant and had a lovely meal.

However, just as I finished dessert, Asofitu rang and said he was coming to pick me up. He had steak all ready so I had annother feed there. I had a good sleep but had to wake up early to go over my sermon and Sabbath School lesson as tomorrow I have to preach at the Samoan Church.

15 February 2007

As a group we have really gelled together very well. Each person has his or her own idiosyncrasies and mannerisms which are special and unique. They make our trip all the more interesting in that now and again these surface to reveal the real person or a side of the person that we had not seen before.

For instance during one of our stops today, I learnt something about Pastor Allen Foote, our trip coordinator and our map instructor.

At the place where we stopped there was a coffee shop and a little and a little park area with some see saws. Allen and I got on the see saws. Allen was much heavier than I so I was left high up on my side of the see saw while Allen took control. For the first time I saw the little boy in Allen as he looked up at me with the glee as if to say, I got you.

I began to see the little boy in me too as I responded with laughter and a funny face. Allen continued our little exchange by unexpectedly hopping off the seat while I was up in the air and I camm crashing down on my bum.

Having had problems with my lower back for years I feared the crash may shorten my participation in the ride. We'll wait and see.

But it was fun to be little boys again if for only a short while.

Timaru is a beautiful little city or town. Jake, Doug, Paul and I shared a motel room which had a spa in it. The sad thing is none of us had the time to use it because we have to leave early for the longest leg of our trip - 160ks to Christchurch.

14 February 2007

Today is supposed to be the hardest day of our trip. We are told that there will be one big hill straight after coming out of Dunedin followed by another one much similar but 5 km longer.

As well as that this is the fourth day, and the knowledgable members of our group reckon this is when we reallly feel the pinch physically. Our muscles will be tired and shouting for rest and more rest.

Surprisingly we all negotiated the hill with energe to spare. Praise the Lord.

With the hills behind, I felt great relief. I knew then that we have a great chance of finishing the ride.

Oamaru appeared in little time and soon we were relaxing in the beautiful motel there. All the motels that we stayed at have been fantastic. Oamaru was no exception.

There was one place in Oamaru that I really wanted to see. It was Waitaki Boys High School. It is the school where my mates and Samoan students who received government scholarships came to for further education in preparation for tertiary studies.

The Circle of Courage meetings have been somewhat disappointing, but the Rotary Clubs have been fantastic.

13 February 2007

We have a saying in Samoa "emma, mala ae tua i manw" which means the worst is after early but blessings will follow.

We started today with a icup - our team had forgotten to take the keys out of the van so they got locked in overnight. However with a little AA ingenuity we were able to retrieve the keys and we were on our way.

The first few kilometres had some challenging hills but nothing unmanagable. Soon it was full stride for the team.

On a tour like this one can be so absorbed by the physical challenge that relationships come last. However, I amm really appreciating the team and the relationships developing.

For instance, last night Jake and I shared motels with Rex and Elaine Jackson and got to know thema bit better. What a lovely couple.

Jake Ormsby seems to be my regular room mate and am enjoying his company immensely.

Today's ride has gone quickly. Hills after rolling hills tend to make you take not of only the steepest whichi was the last hill before before we entered Dunedin City.

It was a great rehearsal for the hardest part of the South Island leg which we will attempt to tackle tomorrow.

12 February 2007

After completing the first leg which was a little over 90kms, we felt less stressed today. We have a fair idea now of the demands of the ride and of our own energy levels.

After breakfast and prayer we set off on our second leg. Our formation and much improved road skills allowed us as a group to talk and share as we travelled.

We reflected on the goodness of God and the beautiful day he has laid out for us. The sun was out, there was little wind and the temperature was not too severe.

We also refleced on how appropriate that we were able to watch the move "The World's Fastest Indian" in Southland last night as it was about Burt Munroe from Invercargill. Burt's desire to attempt at the impossible was a real motivating challenge for us.

The ride itself was absolutely great and very pleasant with rolling hills and a variety of scenery which made it really interesting.

Delvina's text message for today was "Gud on u Dad, ride yr heart out. Love you, Delvina." After the ride it was "Gud on u Dad, yu da bomb. Luv you Delvina." The messages encouraged me no end and then to talk to Susana Shalom, Buy and my grandkids after the ride made my day.

11 February 2007

We finally got underway today.

After so many months of training and much anticipation as well as a very nervous last three days, we have at last made the long awaited start to the NZ Circle of Courage.

An encouraging message from home sent by my daughter Delvina gave me a boost and the folk from Invercargill who came to see us off also lifted our spirits as we cycled out of Bluff on the first leg of our journey that will take us through the length of NZ.

This is the first time that the full team has ridden together and it took us a while to sort our formation out. Now annd again we would see Victor, Pastor of Invercargill Seventh-day Adventist Church, who sent us off with a prayer, riding ahead in a vintage car stop by the road to take photos.

We all sensed the enormity of the physical challenge ahead but because we are doing it for a worthwhile purpose we felt inspired to venture on in the sincere belief that the Circle of Courage is a great way to reach young people and to help adults to reach out and make a difference for good in the lives of the next generation.

I am happy to go on this ride as a way of encouraging my own children and to make them feel that they and their children are of inestimable value.