A solid 5 hrs 28 minutes

Thirty per cent done. I've told Hugh even if he stops now, that's better than my Physics O Level grade. Equally 15 in 15 sounds jolly similar to 50 in 50; surely we can get way with it? A steely unwavering stare in response - good lad, that's the attitude we want.

Bit of a nav problem this morning, sling-shotting off a roundabout and heading north to the Spanish coast - speedos and goggles packed admittedly - but we delivered Hugh back to his start point without further mischief and off he trotted.

This was a day of hilly, beautiful countryside with bright runner friendly roads. Almost a Fuzzy Felt scene with all the requisite stick on bits - large Aberdeen Angus cattle, squat cheery peasants, old tractors, green green grass of home, Tom Jones (not really), and fluffy clouds in a spring 20c heat. A rabbit fretfully studying its watch complained of being late but I may have dozed off by then.

The late start called for a slight change in strategy with very brief stops which suited Hugh well. He may stick to this but the pit crew will discuss and work out if a nine second fuel stop and shoe change is really necessary. Good news anyway: a potential shin injury seems to have been averted by the guru Samia and he continues not to be tempted with potentially damaging steep downhill runs.

We are on the Pilgrims Way, now in Betanzos and we feel we are making progress. Hugh still uses his Holy Water every morning given to him by Karyn, his sister in law, and we shall certainly not spurn any divine help we can get along the way.

A chap at our hotel grasped Hugh by the hand this evening, congratulating him on his efforts and wishing him luck. It turned out that Cesar had been 1500m champion of Galicia and run internationally (against Said Ouita) yet couldn't see how Hugh's feat was really possible. Just the stuff we need. The quest is becoming ever more credible now and on this note, please keep the comments coming. They are an essential boost.