Reaching John O Groats

The day started early with a choice of route, either to go up the A9 or go inland at Helmstead and tackle the winderness. The rain started to fall about 30 mins in and the temps dropped dramtically. We pulled on our capes and then reached Helmstead. Stopped for coffee in Helmstead and decided to carry on the A9 and A99. It was a road that we had been warned about, but we found it quite quiet. Kev went into the Halifax bank in Helmstead and the girls laughed at him warning him that the climbs ahead would challenge us to the max. Berridale Braes awaited. These hairpin bends that climb to 500ft are a challenge to any cyclist. But the three of us flew up them, something to do with all the previous climbs that we have conquered in the previous 10 days.
The rain increased in intensity and the wind got stronger, changing to a headwind by the time we reached Wick. I (Steve) rode with one of three lads from Aberdeen, who were doing the end to end in 7 days. We took turns on the front until the final 8 miles of our journey. I pulled into a lay-by and waited for Kev (who's back was troubling him) and Lee, who was going at his own pace (paying for his breakaway from the previous day on a tough climb).
The last few miles were tough, so cold and such a bleak place. We rode into John O Groats as a three and were met at the finish line by Steve B with vedeo camera in hand. He made us do about 3 takes, until we were sick of riding back and forward over the finish line (there was a danger of clocking up another thousand miles).
At the finger post we had the grumpy fella from Hi Di Hi, who did the Punch and Judy show taking our pictures. He even got the date wrong on the post (we finished on 11th June). Total miles clocked was 1037 miles. More stats to follow when I can upload the Garmin.
Then it was back to the Carnegie Lodge to enjoy their wonderful hospitality. A few beers sank and a huge meal, trying to take in what we had all achieved.
Thanks to everyone who has supported our ride with sponsorship, words of encouragement and kindness.
We hope next weeks charity night carries on raising lots of money for the fund.
Pics - The finger post at a freezing John O Groats and the end of the Braes.