South Downs Waywards

The Waywards strayed a long way from the South Downs at the weekend, undertaking an organised walk - the Jurassic Coast Mighty Hike half-marathon - for the first time. I realise that makes it sound as if all previous walks have been 'disorganised'. I'm saying nothing. The other difference on this occasion was the addition of a third member for the experience, creating a trio of 'Sole Sisters'.  We were resplendent in our Macmillan Green, though missed the memo about glitter and deely-boppers. I was, however, sporting a shiny new titanium hip, as yet untried on rugged terrain and over distance. We gathered at the starting line at Norden Farm, having taken the chain link from Sandbanks to Swanage.  A small delay ensued due to some dithering over which footwear to select: trainers or hiking boots (went for the latter, thankfully), which socks to wear (I'd forgotten my hiking socks, so begged, borrowed and then bought), and whether or not to take walking poles (did...