The weather forecast for today was poor and we expected a soaking but it was actually the best day of the week. We had planned on covering only 20km as there were 10 locks to pass through, and the locks near Mullingar had taught us a hard lesson.
We were in the water by 10.30 in a built up area, and there was some strong wind to contend with. After leaving Mullingar the wind died down and the sun came out. I thought this section was beautiful; more like a slow flowing river without the uniform banks of the canal earlier. There were some lock keepers cottages expanded into impressive homes and we found a really nice harbour with picnic benches to take our lunch. We met a walker here who was walking the Royal Canal path to raise money for a cancer charity.
The fact that we had only 20 km to do meant we were more relaxed mentally and we developed a steady pace and really enjoyed the scenery. We were a bit slower but it didnt matter and we arrived at the meeting point at about 4pm. Ethan had a go in the canal basin here, even had a go at paddling- maybe a future canoeist! I was really physically and mentally tired Thursday night, starting to feel the cumulative effect of so much exercise.
Tomorrow we will leave the canal after 10 km and enter the River Inny. We have never covered this and are unsure how rapidly it flows. On the 'song of the paddle' canoe forum I heard from Ciaran who had canoed it a few months ago which was reassuring to know that it can be done.
Had to study this pic carefully as I thought Andrew had a beard here. I really thought the challenge was taking it's toll then!
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