7 Nov, 2004, Brighton, UK
It's all over now...
It is that time to say a big THANK YOU to all our sponsors (and Michael's staff) for supporting our entry in the Italian Job. We will post another update once the final sponsorship sum has been collated, but for now this is the last en route report.
As you can see from the image the Grand Hotel lives up to its name and we certainly had a Grand Affair last night at the end of event Galla Dinner.
When they announced the navigational winners, we were delighted to discover we were fourth out of 110 entries in the Italian Job 2004. This achievement carries with it a (highly prestigious!) trophy and though our little band cheered wildly at the announcement, Team 8 will have to wait until next March and the "Jobbers Reunion" Dinner before we are presented with our prize. In 9 years of competing, this is the first time I have ever won a navigational prize (though I suppose some credit must go to brother Michael - the official navigator!).
As to competing in future, I feel that 9 is an odd number to go out on, however Michael I think feels that he might wait a couple of years before repeating his exploits. Something to do with trying to negotiate major work contracts via mobile phone whilst navigating round the European countryside in the rain?!
And of course we mustn't forget the 33,000 team at NYK who during our two week adventure have helped bring the world a little closer together. Together their European operations have delivered nearly 20,000 containers into Europe from across the oceans, and transported nearly 500 MINIs out of Europe.
So until we tot up your generous donations, thanks for now but stay tuned...
