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Day 8 was the last of Garry and Sam's Kokoda journey. Emotions were running high, with everyone in great spirits and eager anticipation for the finish and passing through the famous Kokoda arches at Owers' Corner.
As Garry pointed out though, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking you've already finished. Day 8 began with a steep 2 hour 550m climb up to historic Imita Ridge before leading on to a final waist-depth river crossing of Goldie River, the last main resting point before making the last and final push towards the finish.
The physical toll the Owen Stanley Ranges had taken could be seen on Garry and Sam's faces. It had been a tough slog, admittedly one of the toughest things each of them had ever done -- but with the job almost done and each step edging closer to the end of the 96km trek, Garry and Sam had to push on.
Day 8, the final day, is a day for reflection. As you inch closer to the finish you get your first look back over the endless wilderness you've spent the last 8 days in -- and with it, the entirety of the personal feat achieved starts to sink in. For Garry and Sam this was an emotional and poignant moment. A final visit to the Bomana War Cemetery, containing 3500 tombstones, put everything into perspective for what was a truly memorable and rewarding experience.
Courage, Mateship, Endurance, Sacrifice - Lest we forget.