29 April, 2007 (Day 9), Pavia - With the almost almost physical collapse of yesterday and the extreme heat baking Pavia and the surrounding territory at the moment (3 pm) I'd have preferred to kick back here at Claudio's house chatting about his recent trip to Sudan, but....A dinner appointment tonight with local politicians in Spessa Po and a similar even tomorrow night at Corte Sant'Andrea means we have to hit the road right away.

With the good luck brought on by the two Valdostana Stakes, I have just finished eating as much as possibile at a trattoria in Pavia with the hope that the tagliolini with zucchini and prosciutto and the beef in balsamic vinegar sauce will give me the strength to get to Belgioioso. I'd say I have at least an even chance of making it.