It’s now T-minus-21. Three weeks of hard training to go and then Los Cinco amigos will head off to battle the snake infested jungles of Southern Thailand armed only with their cunning, Mark’s aftershave and some fetching hot-pink lycra.

The following training updates have been received from the respective camps:

ETS

The only thing higher than his BMI is his motivation. Rarely a day goes by without Ed being in the saddle; the kilometres’ have been chewed up, the legs waxed and the body suit purchased. Never has he been so ready for an endurance event.

ETS's training was showing surprising results

Mr G

Went jogging. Had baby. (Not both at same time).

Though not available in pink Mr G's body suit fitting had been a success.

Adam

Went scootering (this is not a Mardi Gras phrase so not point looking it up on “urbandictionary.com”). Seems to involve grown-men, tools and little Italian bikes. (Actually please do check “urbandictionary.com” may have stumbled on something here).

Scootering can get you ripped!

Dave

Has been using ETS as his lead out man on sprints lasting the whole day’s ride. “Riding in ETS’s wind has been a revelation” said David between gasps on the oxygen mask.

Riding in ETS's wind required extra cycling kit.

Hayda

Has been tapering the training down since mid-July to arrive in Pattaya Surat Thani in fighting fit condition and well refreshed from the easing off of training. He can be seen “easing-off“ most weekday evenings in and around Boat Quay. ETS has been notably absent due to his daily body fold measurement sessions.

Tough ride. Feel the force? Can't even feel my arse?

So the hotels have been booked, laundry arrangements made, bandanas purchased and the excitement will unerringly grow towards the Grande depart at the end of March.

In the words of the late great Big Kev “I’m excited!!.