I’ve been obsessive about cars, engineering and design since I was kid; so much so that as a teenager I wrote a letter to Porsche in Germany asking what 'A' levels I should do to get a job with them. I cant remember their exact reply, but remember there was a big emphasis on mathematics– a subject I could do but didn’t find hugely engaging. So I ended up studying physiology and biochemistry, which led me to work in sports medicine, nutrition and training physiology. I started on the Olympic programs for Boxing, Swimming and Sailing, as well consultancy work for McLaren F1 and the MOD. I then moved to professional cycling; working with riders from Cervelo Test Team, MTN Qhubeka and Katusha at ‘the classics’ and Tour de France. This was followed by 7 years as Kimi Räikkönen’s performance biochemist; when he finish 3rd overall in the F1 Drivers Championship and competed in NASCAR. It was probably the right decision not to study maths all those years ago, but I’m still curious to know how life might have turned out working for Porsche AG …..

Ever since I have known him, RT has always talked about doing a transcontinental road rally. Why did he ask me on this trip? I can only assume it is because I have a particular set of skills that would make me very useful. I am resourceful and good at fixing things; skills acquired from my dad who could literally fix anything! My first car was a Fiat 127 that my dad got for free after it had been sat in a garden for two years. Between us (to be fair mainly my dad) we managed to get it roadworthy and with some TLC it lasted me through university. I am very experienced at navigating on both land and sea. I have spent years hiking, cycling, skiing and am a qualified yacht master (so if we get lost it is on me). I have a lot of experience of expeditions and adventures, albeit mainly human powered rather than in car. I first started camping about the time I learned to walk (that's me in a field somewhere in Wales). I have cycled Land's End to John o' Groats, climbed the highest peaks in England, Scotland and Wales in 24 hours and even paddled the full length of the Caledonian Canal (60 miles) in a dragon boat! I have driven in the desert before, but only in a sand buggy in Dubai. I have worked in education for over 30 years (starting out as a lecturer in sport and progressing to being principal of a north east college), this has developed my patience and tolerance, attributes that are as important as the skills I have mentioned for a successful trip (remember I have spent months on the road with Rob before). Wish us 'bon courage' and 'bon voyage'...