Newbie seeks other newbie(s) for Challenge, Sep 2009

[Wanstead]

OK I'll just come out and ask...

I wondered if anyone new to this game would like to pair up for a go at The Challenge sometime in September this year? I realise it's not really something you can realistically do on your own so it'd be good to team up with someone like-minded. Ideally if you're a bit obsessed with maps and routing, are online often, and would relish the idea of helping me (us) working out a decent route, then PM me! It probably won't even be necessary to meet up until the day, so no need to live near me or London, though obviously that would be a bonus.

I grew up in London (hence screen name) and I've always been fond of the Tube, so that's what keeps drawing me back and got me interested in The Challenge. I live in Sheffield now and I'm attempting a record on the Supertram system shortly as a convenient and gentle introduction to the "delights" of setting times on rapid transit systems. You're welcome to join me on that venture too.

The reason for citing September is that my other half will be out of the country doing her own challenge for charity at the same time. I'm open to doing this for her nominated charity as well, or not, depending on your views.

NB: My goal is to do all 270 stations in a day, however long that takes. I don't think attempting to break the GWR is realistic on a first go!

[Wanstead]

Thanks to those who've replied so far...

[Going Underground]

If you can hold on for another couple of months CiN day in November is normally great fun (unless it is -6 in the morning ) and is a good one to "break your duck" on....

[palkanetoijala31]

Can i be part of ur CIN team for that 1 Kevin.

[Wanstead]

If you can hold on for another couple of months CiN day in November is normally great fun (unless it is -6 in the morning ) and is a good one to "break your duck" on....

Depends how I get on in September really

[Wanstead]

I'm planning my attempt for Monday 14th September. I hope this is convenient for those who've already expressed an interest...

[palkanetoijala31]

I'm planning my attempt for Monday 14th September. I hope this is convenient for those who've already expressed an interest...

i presume this is still going ahead.

[Wanstead]

I'm planning my attempt for Monday 14th September. I hope this is convenient for those who've already expressed an interest...

i presume this is still going ahead.

Very much so. I've got that day booked off work.

It's still open to anyone who wants to come along. Now need to firm up arrangements. Perhaps best to do this via email? PM me for details!

[Chris5156]

Just signed up at Wanstead's request so I can formally "yes" this here - I will be taking part.

[Wanstead]

I've just seen Andi on the Mind The Gap film and am now haunted by the idea that we mighn't even get 200 stations done, let alone complete the Challenge!

[palkanetoijala31]

I've just seen Andi on the Mind The Gap film and am now haunted by the idea that we mighn't even get 200 stations done, let alone complete the Challenge!

yes but they were on gwr record pace 9 hours into the challenge mostly thanks to me.But they did give it up a little too easily we did have an option to go west at that point but obviously that would have meant a hell of a double back later on we still have finished though.
And i think it was exceptional circumstance a death on the line if i remember.

[Wanstead]

But they did give it up a little too easily.

Ah, perhaps so. I'm just riding the heady mixture of excitement and apprehension at the minute!

[Wanstead]

Log of the successful attempt here. 3rd fastest time ever!