Who' s idea was this?

We are now in our hotel in Almaty after aanother 540km day. The car ran fine after some fettling in Semey. A new set of points and condensor had it running on 6 cylinders again and we are still third. The cars in front of us are both seasoned rallyists and worked out, when we didn't, that you are against the clock from the off. We get it now but not nefore taking a 2 hour time penalty for sightseeing. Typical. You can cut the competitive atmosphere with a knife but nobody wants to appear that they care. Except me! We are gutted we messed up the instructions day one as we would be running very near best or a v close second! The other contestants are really very good company and we are having a whale of a time. Made quite a lot of friends but the Aussies are the most competitive. Where have I heard that before? Much enjoyement from everyone seeing the Aston. It seems Goldfinger reached these parts. Of course I am perfecting my Sean Connery accent and Adrian has been growing a beard even though 007 never had one. Servicing the car tomorrow before sampling what cuisine Almaty has to offer. Many cars have arrived on lorries and some could well be out if they cannot be fixed here. Adrian keen to find a car wash and me keen to change the oil. It is an awesome experience and quite unlike anything we have done before. Highly recommended but if you do it pick your steed carefully. Even the enormous La France fire truck of David Wenman broke its chassis! More tomorrow.