Day 9 – Hawks Nest to Wyong – 153kms

Day 9 – Hawks Nest to Wyong – 153kms

I didn’t think our sunrises could get any better, until a pod of 30 dolphins greeted us for breakfast this morning. They frolicked just metres from shore, riding the 2ft glassy waves. It was almost as if they were trying to impress Weekend Sunrise weatherman JT. His charm truly has no bounds.

There were a few slightly dusty riders this morning, after Danny Moore’s 50th birthday celebrations last night descended into a karaoke free-for-all. From all accounts a great time was had by all….especially Gtv host Gareth Williams….. 😉 Rumour has it a special ‘Gtv up late’ episode was recorded.

We rolled out of Hawks Nest this morning weaving our way through the luscious farmlands of east Maitland and Brunkerville, destined for Wyong. I was riding with a different peleton today that went through Belmont. Lunch was put on by the lovely members of the Belmont Skiff Club.

One of my fellow riders after lunch learnt a valuable lesson – always wash your hands after applying herbal (menthol based) anti-inflammatory cream, especially if you’re planning to go to the bathroom soon after. What a tingly surprise!! (I know what you’re all thinking and no this wasn’t me!!!)

The penultimate day of riding brings such mixed emotions. There’s a certain level of relief at almost being home, excitement at the thought of seeing loved ones, and a more sombre acceptance that soon most of these wonderful people will again be headed back to their lives.

We have made some wonderful friends over the course of the tour and will be sad to see them head off. But I know that if I ever need a comforting word, a spare tube or a squirt of butt cream, I have an army of fellow TDCers there to lend the necessary support.

We’ve got a big afternoon ahead, which I’ll fill you in on tomorrow.

The route today was a little shorter…only a lazy 153 kms!!

1 day to go. Looking forward to rolling into Darling Harbour tomorrow to see all my family and friends.

See some of you tomorrow, in the meantime there are some pics below and a shameless plug for a few of our great sponsors…they certainly deserve it when you see the size of the cheques…..

Chris Richardson

Rider #100 – 2016 TDC Signature Tour