To date I have covered 660 Kms on the rower and 520 running. My normal day starts at 0600, straight into the gym as soon as it opens. Choosing a machine is easy for me, the first one in is my favourite, a Model E fitted with a PM4 monitor. Although there is no log card available I make do with a trusty notepad and pencil to track my progress. Currently I row a variety of distances and times. If time permits and I have the luxury of an hour gym time before breakfast and work I will pull 14500 meters on a good day, 14200 meters on an average day. With more time on my side, I cover 17 K in about 1 hour 10 mins.

If time is tight, 10 K in 41 minutes is enough to keep me on track. With the running part of my challenge taking place after work, around 1800 Hrs I normally run just 10K a day. If I am able to cut away from work early the distance will grow to 16K, but only once a week. I am definitely more at home on the Concept2.

My end date is set as the 3rd of February. That will give me two days before flying back to the UK and the end of my tour out here. I think after rowing every day since the 25th October, a man is allowed at least two days off. Bearing in mind Christmas day will also start the same as usual, gym, then work.

Am I on track? Last week saw me complete 1050K on day 51. I had 51 days remaining, and 1050K left to travel. Now as a Navy man, that is definitely homeward bound!

Out here at Camp Bastion there is a New Years Day half marathon going on. People are signing up for the event thick and fast. I am trying to raise my profile with another challenge to those taking part. I want to row a half marathon at the same time, anyone who beats me, [running] I will pay them $5 to their charity. If I beat them [rowing] the $5 per person comes my way. So far, I have not managed to convince anyone into taking up the challenge. There are some 'whippets' out here, but also some slower lads. I feel I could just about come out on top. My average speed would have to be 14Kph to make a go of it. I shall let you know if the bait gets taken.

Bernie Heaysman
http://www.justgiving.com/bernie-heaysman