Historical clue formulations

• Prepares (for) — 2021-01-24
• Braces oneself — 2016-06-15
• Prepares oneself — 2012-12-31
• Prepares — 2012-08-03
• Gears up — 2005-08-26
• Gears up — 2003-01-31
• Prepares — 1999-12-16