OK, guess what song’s been stuck in my head today? Not that it’s a bad song, and given the circumstances a great choice! The road from Olgii to the border was mostly tarmac, just the odd section of dirt – almost as if Mongolia wanted to hang on to me for a little longer.

As we hit the border I realised we’d all made it, safely navigating the central route across Mongolia in 10 days. It was an incredible feeling of elation and one I’ll not forget in a hurry. The riding was challenging, taking me outside of my comfort zone and even chucking me off the bike a couple of times.

I’ve always considered myself an average rider, not the fastest by any means – but safe enough. I suppose my continued existence after 25 years of riding supports that theory. I’m chuffed to bits that I’ve made it, though with hindsight taking an extra couple of days may have kept me on the bike.

I’d do it again, but not for a long while – I need to recover! I’d also encourage anyone considering it to have a go.

Then again, maybe we were just lucky. What is it they say, I’d rather be lucky than good – well who knows??